Product Development Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: The Plant Company - Stuarts Draft, VA 24477Position Type: Full TimeJob Shift: DayJob Category: SalesThe Plant Company (TPC) is a fast-growing, innovative horticultural business operating in a newly expanded 10-acre facility. With the completion of Phase 2, we’ve added a state-of-the-art greenhouse and production barn—both purpose-built for the controlled-environment, sustainable production of premium tropical foliage. The ideal candidate will play a key role in driving our continued growth and daily success as part of the nationally recognized Proven Winners® leafjoy® brand. We’re proud of our inclusive, growth-oriented culture and operate on EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), which shapes how we solve problems, lead teams, and scale effectively. As a valued team member, you’ll have the opportunity to make a direct impact, contribute your perspective, and grow with a company that’s expanding rapidly and is nationally recognized. We believe that “together we grow stronger”, which applies to employees, vendors and of course customers.  The four core values that identify this company are:  Caring About People, Plants, and Process Growth Oriented Customer First "Can Do" Attitude JOB SUMMARY The Product Development Manager is responsible for turning plant genetics and market trends into profitable, scalable, and sellable products. This role sits at the center of the organization, leading cross-functional initiatives across R&D, Marketing, Sales, and Operations. This position requires strong project management discipline, the ability to drive execution across multiple concurrent initiatives, and the capability to synthesize data into clear recommendations for leadership. MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES Manage and develop the product development team Set priorities, timelines, and project roadmaps Conduct performance evaluations and support team growth Lead cross-functional alignment across departments Drive accountability, execution, and results ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Product Strategy & Assortment Define and evolve the product portfolio aligned with market demand and company strategy Identify new product opportunities based on trends, customer insights, and genetics Product Development Lead new product development from concept through launch Define product configurations, pricing, and positioning Coordinate cross-functional inputs to ensure feasibility and market fit Lifecycle Management Manage products through their full lifecycle, including optimization and exit decisions Analyze performance data to inform product decisions Commercialization Transition products from development to scalable production Partner with Operations to ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency Project Management & Execution Lead cross-functional projects from concept through commercialization Develop and manage timelines, milestones, and deliverables Coordinate stakeholders across R&D, Sales, Marketing, and Operations Track progress, identify risks, and ensure on-time execution Reporting & Presentation Prepare business cases, product briefs, and performance reports Analyze development and post-launch results to generate insights Present product strategies, updates, and recommendations to leadership Communicate clearly with cross-functional teams to drive alignment and decisions QualificationsREQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES Strong commercial mindset with an understanding of market dynamics Proven leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities Project management expertise, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously High level of organization, prioritization, and execution discipline Ability to synthesize complex data into clear insights and recommendations Strong written and verbal communication skills, including preparing and delivering presentations to leadership Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving environment EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field preferred Minimum of 4–6 years of experience in plant production, R&D, product development, or  related field preferred Experience in a commercial greenhouse or live goods environment strongly preferred Experience working with large retail programs (big-box, grocery, or IGC) preferred PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Ability to stand and walk in greenhouse environments for extended periods Must be able to bend, stoop, and lift up to 25–40 lbs  Ability to work in varying conditions including heat, humidity, and typical greenhouse environments Salary based on experience The Plant Company is an equal opportunity employer