Director of Research and Development (R&D)
Location: West Palm Beach, FL
Job Type: Direct Placement
Company: ARC Group
Category: Administration
Job Description Apply Now
The Director of Research and Development (R&D) plays a critical leadership role in driving innovation and strategic product development within the health and wellness industry. As a key member of the executive team, the Director of Research and Development (R&D) oversees the full lifecycle of product development, from ideation to commercialization, ensuring that all initiatives align with regulatory standards and company objectives. This full-time position is central to advancing the company’s robust pipeline of science-based products that support healthcare professionals and their patients, while adhering to rigorous compliance and quality standards.
Based on-site in a vibrant and fast-paced environment, the Director of Research and Development (R&D) reports directly to senior leadership and is responsible for fostering cross-functional collaboration. The role involves strategic oversight of product innovation, project management, scientific communication, and building strong external partnerships. The Director of Research and Development (R&D) leverages deep expertise in dietary supplements, herbal formulations, and natural health product development to ensure successful delivery of new products that meet market needs and regulatory requirements.
In addition to leading technical and scientific initiatives, the Director of Research and Development (R&D) acts as a bridge between internal teams—such as Innovation, Marketing, Regulatory, and Operations—and external stakeholders, including formulation partners, raw material suppliers, co-manufacturers, and research collaborators. The position requires a dynamic, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to manage multiple projects while adapting to evolving industry trends and business priorities.
The ideal professional for the Director of Research and Development (R&D) role brings a robust background in regulated product development, a strong understanding of cGMP standards and FDA/FTC regulations, and a history of successful product launches. They are adept at translating complex scientific data into actionable opportunities, communicating clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences, and representing the company at industry events to scout emerging technologies and ingredients.
Working in this role offers the chance to make a significant impact on the development of innovative health and wellness products, contribute to company growth, and advance professional expertise in a supportive, mission-driven environment. Those interested in the Director of Research and Development (R&D) position are encouraged to apply through the job application button and become a part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence and innovation.
Director of Research and Development (R&D) - Summary- Strategic leadership of product development initiatives and scientific activities.
- Cross-functional collaboration across Innovation, Marketing, Regulatory, and Operations.
- Overseeing projects from concept through commercialization.
- Ensuring compliance with cGMP and FDA/FTC dietary supplement regulations.
- External partnership management and industry trend scouting.
- Identify, evaluate, and commercialize new products by transforming market insights into actionable development opportunities.
- Lead end-to-end project management, including planning, execution, documentation, and progress reporting to senior leadership.
- Oversee the creation, review, and compliance of scientific content, product labels, and educational materials.
- Collaborate with internal teams and serve as the primary technical liaison with external partners, including formulation and manufacturing organizations.
- Support clinical research initiatives by reviewing study protocols, monitoring progress, and interpreting findings.
- Represent the company at trade shows and industry events to identify innovative trends and novel ingredients.
- Competitive compensation package aligned with industry standards.
- Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Supportive work-life balance and positive organizational culture.
- Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline such as Chemistry, Microbiology, Nutritional Sciences, or Pharmaceutical Sciences. Advanced degree strongly preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years progressive experience in R&D product development, technical transfer, or regulatory science within dietary supplements, herbal medicine, or natural products.
- Expert knowledge of dietary supplement regulations (cGMP, DSHEA, FDA, FTC) and substantiation of product claims.
- Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional teams and external collaboration.
- Experience supporting clinical trials, including protocol review and data analysis.
- Proven success managing projects from concept through commercialization with multiple successful launches.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with strong adaptability and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
- Familiarity with quality systems and compliance in a regulated environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to travel up to 40% for supplier visits, manufacturing oversight, and industry events.
- Entrepreneurial and adaptable, thriving in dynamic and fast-paced settings.
- Deep expertise in dietary supplement or natural product R&D and regulatory requirements.
- Strong leadership and collaborative skills across diverse teams and stakeholders.
- Effective communicator able to translate technical information for varied audiences.
- Proactive in monitoring industry trends and identifying innovative solutions.
- This is a full-time, on-site role with significant cross-functional and external engagement.
- The company is committed to high-quality, science-based product offerings and regulatory compliance.
- Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.
- ARC Group does not accept submissions from third-party recruiting firms.
- Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO).
If you are passionate about innovation, regulatory excellence, and making a tangible impact in the health and wellness industry, consider applying for the Director of Research and Development (R&D) position by clicking the job application button today. Join a dedicated team and help shape the future of science-based healthcare solutions.