For over a century, our client has been a trusted innovator in the animal health industry-delivering high-quality, solutions for both companion animals and livestock. With a strong legacy in equine and pet care, they are committed to advancing health and wellness through product innovation, operational excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.
We're seeking a Product Manager to lead the full product lifecycle for new animal health and wellness products-from concept through commercialization. In this highly visible role, you'll act as the strategic owner of product initiatives, driving cross-functional alignment between R&D, marketing, supply chain, regulatory, and external partners (suppliers and contract manufacturers).
This is an exciting opportunity for a product professional who thrives in fast-paced, collaborative environments and is passionate about making an impact in the animal health space.
Responsibilities:
- Own and manage the end-to-end product lifecycle-ideation, feasibility, development, launch, and post-launch optimization.
- Partner with marketing and sales to validate product-market fit, define business cases, and build go-to-market strategies.
- Evaluate technical feasibility, cost models, and scalability to inform product decision-making and prioritization.
- Lead Stage Gate processes, managing timelines, resources, and stakeholder alignment across departments.
- Source and negotiate with contract manufacturers and suppliers to ensure cost-effective, high-quality production.
- Oversee formulation, pilot testing, and scale-up efforts in collaboration with R&D and operations teams.
- Ensure regulatory and quality compliance across all development phases-including stability, safety, and performance testing.
- Leverage industry research, trends, and customer insights to inform innovation roadmaps and identify white space opportunities.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on pricing, packaging, positioning, and launch planning.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree required; scientific or business-related field preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in product management, brand management, or innovation within CPG, animal health, or related industries.
- Proven experience managing product development within a Stage Gate or phased development process.
- Strong cross-functional leadership skills with the ability to translate technical detail into business value.
- Experience working with external manufacturing partners and navigating sourcing, production, and regulatory challenges.
- Excellent project management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to be on-site 3 days per week in the greater Springfield, MA area.
- Willingness to travel up to 20%.