Research and Development Director

Research and Development Director page is loaded## Research and Development Director locations:
IL Oak Brooktime type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition :
R28130

As the R&D Director, you will set the strategy and lead the technical vision for new product development, manufacturing improvements, and cost-saving initiatives. You’ll guide a talented team of scientists and developers, mentor future leaders, and partner across the business to deliver food experiences that delight consumers and exceed expectations. This is more than a leadership role—it’s an opportunity to shape the future of food at Winland and to build a high-performing, innovative, and engaged R&D organization.

• Be part of a company that values people as much as performance.  
• Work in a culture rooted in integrity, collaboration, and respect.  
• Lead innovation that directly shapes the future of mealtime experiences.  
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.  
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
At Winland, your work doesn’t just feed families—it strengthens communities, supports sustainability, and builds a legacy of excellence.
** Employee Type:
** Full time
*
* Location:

** IL Oak Brook
** Job Type:
** Research and Development
** Job Posting

Title:

** Research and Development Director
*
* Job Description:

***
* Schedule:

** Remote Monday and Friday;
In office Tuesday to Thursday
*
* Work Location:

** 2015 Spring Road Suite 400, Oak Brook, IL 60523
** Benefits:
** Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness.
** Salary, based on experience and other qualifications:** $136k to $238k Annually with additional bonus potential
*
* Position Responsibilities:

*** Lead with

Purpose:

Inspire and mentor R&D staff to drive product innovation, improvements, and problem-solving in line with Winland’s mission and values.
* Champion

Innovation: Act as the strategic technical contact for assigned categories, staying ahead of marketplace trends and bringing fresh insights into the business.
* Drive

Collaboration:

Partner with cross-functional teams—Operations, Marketing, Quality, and Supply Chain—to achieve business goals and deliver consumer value.
* Deliver Excellence:
Oversee high-priority projects and critical initiatives, ensuring quality and timely execution.
* Develop Talent:
Create opportunities for growth through training, coaching, and succession planning, building a resilient and future-ready team.
* Shape Strategy:
Contribute to senior leadership discussions, influencing direction and setting R&D goals aligned with company strategy.
* Foster Continuous Improvement:
Evaluate new formulations, process enhancements, technologies, and cost-savings opportunities while maintaining Winland’s commitment to sustainability.
* Be a Steward:
Ensure decisions and innovations align with Winland’s values of integrity, respect, and responsibility toward our employees, communities, and environment.

The duties and responsibilities described are not a comprehensive list of all tasks. Additional tasks and duties may be assigned from time to time as necessitated by business needs.
** Qualifications and Requirements:
**
* Experience:

10+ years of progressive leadership in product development and food safety within packaged goods, ideally in mid-to-large organizations.
* Expertise:
Advanced knowledge of Food Science, Chemistry, and Nutrition with the ability to apply this in development, commercialization, and manufacturing.
* Leadership:
Proven success in developing and inspiring teams, fostering collaboration, and balancing strategic vision with hands-on execution.
* Business Acumen:
Ability to connect technical expertise to business impact and consumer needs.
* Adaptability:
Skilled in leading through change and accelerating performance in dynamic environments.

* Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science/Engineering or related field required;
Master’s (MBA, Food Science/Engineering) strongly preferred.
** EEO Statement:
** Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool,…