Project Manager, Innovation/Commercialization

Sambazon Inc•San Clemente, CA

3d•$80,000 - $90,000•Remote

About The Position

The Innovation & Commercialization Project Manager is responsible for leading cross-functional initiatives from concept through commercialization to successfully launch new products across Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) and Foodservice channels. This role serves as a critical link between Marketing, R&D, Operations, and Sales, ensuring that innovation projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with brand and business strategy. Working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, the Project Manager will scope projects, develop and manage timelines, facilitate cross-functional collaboration, and drive execution through to launch. This position offers a generous benefits package, annual bonus opportunity, and a year-round half-day Fridays. It is primarily a remote role, based out of our San Clemente, California office, with a salary range of $80,000 to $90,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field is required.
3–5 years of project management or commercialization experience in the CPG industry; two or more years of Food & Beverage experience a plus.
Proficient in project management tools (e.g., Smartsheet, Basecamp, SharePoint); familiarity with Gantt charts.
Strong organizational and time management skills with proven ability to manage multiple, concurrent projects.
Skilled in cross-functional collaboration, risk mitigation, and timeline management.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Adaptable and solution-focused with a track record of driving projects to completion.

Nice To Haves

two or more years of Food & Beverage experience a plus.

Responsibilities

Drive the commercialization of new products identified by Sales and Marketing by executing well-structured project plans to meet sales and profitability goals, and deliver exceptional value to customers.
Manage the Stage-Gate process for all product development initiatives, ensuring completion of key milestones from ideation to first production.
Create and maintain detailed project timelines, identifying and tracking key deliverables and dependencies.
Organize and facilitate project kick-offs, gathering cross-functional input and setting clear expectations.
Maintain comprehensive project documentation and manage all related materials in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Oversee packaging development timelines and approvals, liaising with packaging vendors to align capabilities and manage print handoffs.
Lead regular cross-functional meetings and provide consistent status updates through weekly reports.
Proactively identify risks and communicate changes or potential delays that could impact project timelines.
Support the management of artwork, proofs, and sample distribution with print vendors.
Collaborate with Marketing and Sales to support product launch materials, toolkits, and sample coordination.