Director Research & Development

About Spindrift

At Spindrift, we’re making every beverage a positive force of nature. Founded in 2010, we believe the best flavors come directly from nature. That’s why every Spindrift beverage is made the hard way—with real squeezed fruit, never from concentrate. From sourcing the best-tasting fruit globally to maintaining a carefully honed manufacturing process, we believe in doing things the hard way, the intentional way, the better albeit more challenging way, the right way – because, in the end, it's worth it. Spindrift® sparkling water is available nationwide, and Spindrift Spiked® and Spindrift SODA is available in select markets. We are also a proud member of 1% for the planet, donating to environmental causes. Spindrift is headquartered in Newton, MA.

About Spindrift Ventures

Spindrift Ventures is the innovation lab within Spindrift, dedicated to developing bold new initiatives that drive long-term growth. We explore emerging trends, untapped markets, and transformative product concepts—working cross-functionally to rapidly test, validate, and scale ideas that extend beyond our core business. We move fast, experiment often, and make data-informed decisions with creativity and consumer obsession at the core.

About the Role

The Director of Research & Development will lead the formulation and technical development of new beverage concepts that align with Spindrift Ventures’ strategic priorities. This role bridges the world of innovation and product science—translating bold ideas into best-in-class liquid experiences.

You will oversee our in-house R&D lab and a small, highly skilled team of liquid development specialists, that manage both our core and emerging liquid development.  You’ll work closely with Ventures leadership to opine on and execute the product roadmap, ensuring every new concept meets our standards for taste, quality, and authenticity while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in beverage.

This role is both strategic and hands-on—ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of creativity, science, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of beverage formulation and product development within Spindrift Ventures.
• Manage, mentor, and develop two R&D specialists focused on liquid innovation; core and emerging.
• Oversee the daily operation and long-term vision of the in-house R&D lab.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners (Strategy, Operations) to ensure product concepts deliver on consumer and business objectives.
• Translate innovation strategies into executable development briefs and prototypes.
• Establish development timelines, testing protocols, and quality standards.
• Evaluate new ingredients, technologies, and processes that can elevate Spindrift’s beverage portfolio.
• Partner with external suppliers, co-packers, and innovation partners as needed to scale products from concept to commercialization.
• Contribute to the creation and evolution of the Spindrift Ventures product roadmap.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality standards.

What Sucess Looks Like

• A strong pipeline of validated beverage prototypes ready for pilot testing.
• Efficient and innovative R&D processes that accelerate speed-to-market.
• Deep cross-functional collaboration between R&D and other Ventures teams.
• New formulations that uphold Spindrift’s values of simplicity, transparency, and real ingredients—while advancing our innovation agenda.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in beverage R&D, product formulation, or food science.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, or related discipline.
• Proven success leading product development from concept through launch.
• Strong understanding of flavor systems, ingredient functionality, and sensory evaluation.
• Experience managing small teams and operating R&D labs or pilot facilities.
• Excellent collaborator and communicator—able to work closely with Strategy and Operations to align technical work with strategic goals.
• Highly organized with strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Passion for innovation, problem-solving, and crafting exceptional beverages.

The salary range for this position is $140,000 to $170,000 and is dependent upon the candidate’s experience prior to joining Spindrift. In addition, we offer the following compensation and benefits:

• Short-term incentive programs specific to level and department
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with a current employer contribution rate of 80% towards monthly premiums, regardless of plan type selected
• Company-paid life insurance, and a 401k retirement savings plan with a company match
• Monthly cell phone allowance
• Annual allowances for personal use of Spindrift product, health and wellness, professional development, and social justice education
• A host of voluntary benefits including but not limited to additional life insurance, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance
• In addition to any paid leave benefits required by regulation, the company provides paid parental leave, vacation, sick, personal, bereavement, community service, and holiday time