Private Brands Innovation Specialist

Additional Considerations (if any):

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At Hy-Vee our people are our strength. We promise “a helpful smile in every aisle” and those smiles can only come from a workforce that is fully engaged and committed to supporting our customers and each other.

Job Description:

Job Title: Private Brands Innovation Specialist

Department: Private Brands

Pay Type: Salary

Revision Date: 7/2025

General Function:

Supports the development of private brand innovation through research, supplier coordination, and item preparation. Assists in identifying emerging trends, supplier opportunities, and product concepts to enhance Hy-Vee’s private brand portfolio. Collaborates with the Innovation Manager, Category Managers, and Merchandising to support new item introductions and portfolio expansion.

Reporting Relationships:

Accountable and Reports to: Director, Private Brands Innovation & Product Development

Direct Reports: None

Primary Responsibilities:

• Leads the research and identification of innovative product opportunities, emerging categories, and supplier partners aligned with Hy-Vee’s private brand strategy.

• Independently analyzes market trends, consumer insights, and competitive landscapes to develop recommendations that influence product development and portfolio expansion.

• Owns and manages the end-to-end new item review process, ensuring all documentation and business cases are accurate, complete, and aligned with brand goals.

• Evaluates and recommends new or alternative suppliers based on quality, innovation potential, and alignment with Hy-Vee brand values.

• Collaborates cross-functionally with Category Managers and Merchandising to develop and refine go-to-market strategies for new product launches.

• Monitors the performance of newly launched items and provides actionable insights and recommendations for improvement or expansion.

• Participates in and occasionally leads innovation workshops and brainstorming sessions; contributes strategic input and creative direction for product pipeline development.

• Manages timelines, priorities, and deliverables for multiple innovation projects simultaneously with minimal supervision.

• Supports promotional and marketing strategy development in coordination with the Innovation Manager and Category teams, ensuring alignment with brand positioning.

• Performs other strategic and analytical duties as assigned to support private brand innovation and long-term growth objectives.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, design, or a related field preferred.

• 1–3 years of experience in product development, brand management, innovation, or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Visual requirements include: ability to see detail at near and far range with or without correction.

• Must be physically able to perform light work: occasionally lifting or carrying objects of no more than 20 pounds, and frequent standing or walking.

• Must be able to perform the following physical activities: stooping, kneeling, reaching, handling, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Worker Characteristics:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.

• Commitment to the Hy-Vee Mission and a willingness to promote the values of the company.

• Strong interpersonal skills. An ability to relate to and interact with other people in a friendly, professional manner.

• Ability to identify problems, develop and execute solutions.

Working Conditions:

• The duties of this position are performed in a general office environment.

• There may be occasional travel for meetings, supplier visits, or trade shows.

• There is frequent pressure to manage timelines and meet deadlines across multiple projects.

Confidentiality:

Has access to confidential information, including supplier pricing, product plans, and private brand strategies.

Are you ready to smile, apply today.  

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre employment drug screen.