Job Description
Company Overview
Pearl West is redefining what it means to build consumer brands. Think of us as a lean, high-performance version of Unilever—without the bureaucracy. We own and operate several brands in health supplements, beauty, sports nutrition, skincare, and pet categories, with a combined run rate of $40M+ USD and scaling aggressively.
Our mission is simple: build brands that leave lasting impressions and exit them at their peak.
What makes us different? We’re not “scale and pray” private equity. We’re operator-led, performance-driven, and outcome-obsessed. Our centralized shared-services model—covering growth, creative, product, and operations—fuels multiple brands with speed, clarity, and execution.
If you want to lead with autonomy, move fast, and own results , Pearl West is your arena.
Role Overview
As the Innovation & R&D Manager , you’ll lead the full lifecycle of product development—from concept and formulation to launch and post-market optimization. This is a full-time leadership role focused exclusively on the health supplements category , requiring a balance of strategic vision, scientific rigor, and operational execution.
You’ll drive new product launches that align with consumer trends, regulatory standards, and Pearl West’s commitment to high-performance products that scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end product development — from ideation, R&D, supplier sourcing, and formulation to testing, compliance, and launch.
- Own the innovation pipeline — identify white-space opportunities and build a roadmap aligned with market trends in supplements and wellness.
- Collaborate cross-functionally — work with marketing, operations, and creative to ensure seamless go-to-market execution.
- Optimize economics & scalability — negotiate supplier contracts, improve COGS, and enhance profitability without compromising quality.
- Ensure compliance & quality — manage regulatory and labeling standards across multiple markets.
- Accelerate time-to-market — establish efficient systems and workflows to move from concept to launch rapidly.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Launch 4–6 new SKUs per quarter (or ~15–20 annually) — from concept to market-ready within agreed timelines.
- Achieve ≥70% gross margin on all new supplement launches.
- Deliver at least 20–25% of annual brand revenue from products launched within the past 12 months.
- Reduce time-to-market by 25–30% compared to prior cycles (targeting <90 days from concept to ready-to-launch).
- Maintain 100% regulatory compliance and zero quality recalls across all launches.
- Negotiate ≥10% COGS improvement per SKU through supplier optimization and process efficiencies.
- Achieve ≥85% on-time project completion rate across all product launches.
- Sustain product review rating of 4.5★+ within six months of launch on primary sales platforms (Amazon/DTC).
Success Benchmarks (30-60-90 Days)
First 30 Days:
- Deep dive into Pearl West’s supplement brands, products, and supply chain.
- Build relationships with internal teams and external partners.
First 60 Days:
- Take ownership of active development projects.
- Identify immediate improvements in formulation, cost, or timeline efficiency.
First 90 Days:
- Lead your first product launch from concept to shelf.
- Build a repeatable framework for end-to-end supplement development.
Required Skills & Qualifications
Must-Have Skills:
- Proven experience in end-to-end product development for health supplements (R&D, sourcing, compliance, launch).
- Strong supplier and manufacturer management experience.
- Deep understanding of NPN/FDA compliance, labeling, and claims regulations .
- Excellent project management and cross-functional leadership skills.
- Data-driven mindset with P&L awareness and focus on scalability.
Nice-to-Have Skills:
- Experience in Amazon or DTC product launches .
- Familiarity with nutraceutical trends, ingredients, and formulations .
- Startup or high-growth brand experience.
Experience & Education
- 5+ years in product development, formulation management, or category leadership (preferably supplements or wellness).
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Nutrition, Chemistry, or related field .
Who Should Apply
✅ Apply if you:
- Thrive in fast-paced, high-growth environments.
- Love owning projects from idea to impact.
- Balance creativity with execution and accountability.
🚫 Do not apply if you:
- Prefer corporate environments with slow decision-making.
- Struggle to prioritize speed and results under pressure.
Why Join Us
- Impact: Shape and scale a rapidly growing supplement portfolio.
- Growth: Direct access to leadership and clear advancement paths.
- Culture: Performance-first, high-autonomy, zero-bureaucracy environment.
- Compensation: Competitive salary, equity upside, and flexible work setup.
- Perks: Health benefits, learning stipend, flexible PTO, team retreats.
Compensation & Benefits
- Role Type: Full-time
- Category: Health Supplements
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid (Vancouver HQ) or Remote with occasional travel
- Benefits: Medical, dental, and mental health coverage
- Perks: Learning stipend, flexible PTO, team events
Application Process
- Submit your resume highlighting your relevant experience in product innovation, R&D, and the supplements category.
- Initial interview with the hiring team to discuss your background and fit.
- Final interview with leadership to assess strategic alignment and role ownership.
Job Tags
Full time, Immediate start, Remote work, Flexible hours,