Market Development Specialist

Smithfield Foods • Smithfield, VA

4d

About The Position

The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section. As a Market Development Manager you’ll play a key part in driving the success of new branded retail packaged meats and private label products. Working closely with the Director of Innovation, you’ll manage the full product development lifecycle—from concept validation to marketing mix and communication strategies. You'll gain valuable insight into how products flow across retail, deli, and food service channels, while owning the approval process to ensure seamless product launches.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Marketing, Business Management, Research Analytics, or a related field and 5+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
• 2+ years of demonstrated experience in team management/development or project leadership is required
• Experience in positions of increasing responsibility with a consumer-packaged goods company.
• General understanding of consumer segmentation, need states and brand positioning with the ability to apply learning in developing and commercializing new product concepts.
• Direct marketing analytics experience at a multi-channel company; special emphasis on branded retail.
• Organized, efficient and able to manage creative processes as well as grasp operational details and financial strategies.
• Strong work experience grounded in leadership, adaptation and interpersonal skills.
• New product development experience from concept development through successful launch which includes generating ideas, writing and testing concepts, prioritizing and defining projects, and determining feasibility.
• Experience managing and working with marketing, sales, trade planning and business development departments.

Nice To Haves

• Master's Degree, preferred.
• Ability to build strong business relationships and work collaboratively with marketing peers.
• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop new products using consumer, customer, and internal insights to uncover business opportunities.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to stay ahead of trends and consumer preferences.
• Collaborate with the Director of Innovation to execute product innovation strategies aligned with company goals and market trends.
• Work with R&D, marketing, sales, and operations teams to ensure seamless product development.
• Spearhead innovative sample process with R&D and Sales.
• Present updates and status to senior management, sales, and cross-functional teams, including pipeline updates and retailer presentations.
• Lead marketing communications, timing, and product launches, working closely with brands and commerce teams to target consumers effectively across the marketing funnel.
• Utilize the Demand Landscape to drive portfolio strategy and prioritize high-value consumer segments to fuel brand growth and incremental revenue.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees