Research and Development Director

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.
Why Join Winland?
• 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, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.