VP of Research and Development

Kinsa is recruiting for a: VP of R&D.
Location: Onsite, Phoenix AZ

Our client is a fast-growing startup aiming to become a household breakfast brand. They are seeking a Vice President of Research & Development to lead innovation strategy and oversee new product development from concept through launch. In this role, you will own the R&D roadmap, aligning it with consumer trends, brand growth goals, and operational feasibility. You will also lead the R&D team in developing innovative formulations, packaging solutions, and customer co-creation programs while maintaining speed to market and brand integrity.

Relevant qualifications

• Relevant college degree, 15+ years of food R&D including dynamic, high-growth start-up experience. Extremely innovative & relentlessly data-driven. Great full‑cycle R&D experience, exceptional leadership chops.

• $240-290k base salary
• Stock options/equity
• 100% employer-paid Medical for employee and family
• Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
• Generous PTO & paid holidays

• Lead the full product innovation pipeline, from concept to commercialization.
• Build and lead a high‑performing R&D team across food science, sensory, packaging, and process innovation.
• Turn customer data, market trends, and internal insights into innovation strategy. Introduce tools, processes, and technology to speed and modernize innovation.
• Partner with Marketing, Ops, and Supply Chain to align innovation with launch timelines and supply feasibility.
• Lead a customer‑led R&D model with iterative end‑user testing and feedback. Develop specifications, prototypes, and scalable formulations with the in‑house production team.
• Stay current on regulations, labeling, allergens, and claims to ensure compliant product development.
• Lead cross‑functional commercialization for new products and ensure successful launches.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific or technical field required; advanced degree preferred. Flexible, curious, and quick to learn new processes, technology, and ways of thinking.
• 15+ years in food & beverage R&D, in high‑growth startup environments.
• Strong food science and product development background, including nutrition, ingredients, and functional foods. Experience leading innovation from concept to shelf.
• Experience building and leading high-performing teams with a focus on mentorship and collaboration.
• A strategic, hands‑on leader who enjoys prototyping and building. Passion for turning consumer insights into craveable, scalable products.
• Familiar with co‑manufacturing, in‑house production, and pilot plant environments.

George Blomgren