Senior Director of Product Innovation

Lead the Future of Pizza Innovation!

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT INNOVATION

Are you a creative problem-solver who thrives on building new products from the ground up? Do you enjoy working cross-functionally to bring culinary concepts to life? If you’re energized by innovation, collaboration, and hands-on leadership, this role is for you!

We are looking for a Senior Director of Product Innovation to lead our Innovation and R&D teams, driving product development across deli, bakery, and frozen pizza platforms. This high-impact role will partner closely with internal stakeholders, private label customers, and co-manufacturers to develop and commercialize new products aligned with emerging trends and consumer insights.

Who you’ll work for…
While most companies that sell pizza have no real connection to Italy, Palermo’s passion for food and family reaches all the way back to the country where pizza was born. “Papa Palermo” carried the cherished recipes to America from Sicily!

Innovation is at the heart of who we are. We use an entrepreneurial, forward-thinking approach resulting in high-quality products that are consistently recognized by both the industry and consumers.

Our commitment to quality has made Palermo’s a leader in private label frozen pizza and contract manufacturing.

Perks…
🍕 20 free pizzas per month (yes, you read that right!)
💼 Paid Time Off and a Floating Holiday of your choice
📈 401(k) & Roth with company match – fully vested on the 1st of the month after hire
🩺 Comprehensive benefits package starting on the 1st of the month after hire
📚 Opportunities for career advancement and professional development

Where you’ll work…
This position is located in Milwaukee, WI and is 100% onsite.
Our Villa Palermo headquarters includes a high-tech manufacturing facility with an on-site bakery, robotic packaging, and 24-hour shipping. You’ll be working hands-on at the center of innovation.

What you’ll do…

• Lead cross-functional product innovation across crust, deli, and frozen pizza platforms
• Direct bakery initiatives, including new crust development and specification management
• Build and streamline internal and co-manufacturing processes
• Develop consumer-driven innovation pipelines and product strategies
• Guide technical teams in product formulation, commercialization, and documentation
• Partner with customers and culinary teams to bring concepts to market
• Drive external innovation by identifying new technologies, trends, and suppliers
• Ensure successful shelf-life studies and product specification creation
• Support raw material development and new business opportunities

What you bring…

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or related field
• 4–8 years’ experience in food manufacturing, including R&D or innovation
• 2+ years managing direct reports or technical teams
• Strong understanding of ingredients, formulation, flavor development, and sensory evaluation
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, Oracle, RedZone, and Teams
• Knowledge of FDA/USDA food regulations is a plus

Why you’ll succeed…
You’re a visionary leader who can connect technical strategy to consumer needs.
You thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where creativity and precision go hand in hand.
You’re passionate about food, ready to inspire teams, and excited to drive innovation from concept to shelf.