Job Details Job Location : Corporate - Denver, CO Position Type : Full Time Salary Range : $100000.00 - $155000.00 Salary/year Description
Director of Merchandising and Product Development
Location: Denver, CO (on-site, hybrid)
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Reports To: Vice President of Merchandising
Brands: Lolli & Pops | Hammond’s Candies
About the Role
Lolli & Pops and Hammond’s Candies are on a mission to delight customers through unforgettable confections and retail experiences. We’re looking for a Director of Product Development & Merchandising to lead innovation, set trends, and develop best-in-class candy assortments across both brands. You’ll be at the forefront of flavor, format, and form — shaping what’s next in sweets and ensuring we remain first to market with irresistible new products.
This is a high-impact, highly creative role for someone who understands the business of joy — and how to turn confections into profitable customer obsessions.
Key Responsibilities
Drive product development strategy across seasonal, everyday, and limited-edition programs for Lolli & Pops and Hammond’s Candies.
Identify emerging trends, flavors, and global innovations to ensure both brands stay ahead of the market.
Lead concept-to-shelf product lifecycle — from ideation and sampling to packaging, pricing, and performance analysis.
Collaborate with supply chain, R&D, marketing, and sales to bring new products to life with speed, quality, and profitability.
Build and maintain vendor and co-manufacturer relationships, ensuring quality, compliance, and production agility.
Manage product line architecture and SKU productivity for both retail and wholesale channels.
Own product financials: cost targets, margin strategy, and retail pricing decisions.
Partner closely with visual merchandising and marketing teams to develop compelling in-store and eCommerce presentations.
Represent the brands at trade shows and trend-spotting events to feed innovation pipeline.
Qualifications
5–8years of experience in merchandising, product development, or innovation roles within the candy, confections, or snack food industry (required).
Proven track record of delivering successful, trend-driven product launches with strong margin performance.
Strong aesthetic and brand sensibility with an eye for packaging, product appeal, and market differentiation.
Experience managing vendor relationships, including contract manufacturing and sourcing.
Ability to balance creativity with commercial acumen — and move fast without sacrificing detail.
Exceptional communication, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
What We’re Looking For
A tastemaker with business instincts.
Someone who eats seasonal strategy for breakfast and dreams in gummy bears and marshmallows.
An entrepreneurial spirit who thrives in fast-paced, growth-focused environments.
Passion for the artistry, nostalgia, and future of candy.
Ready to shape what’s next in sweets?
Join us in crafting moments of joy, one delicious innovation at a time.
Qualifications
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