Project Manager- Launch Coordination

Description

PURPOSE STATEMENT: 

The Project Manager – Launch Coordination is responsible for leading cross-functional project execution for new product development initiatives. This role works closely with the R&D, Regulatory, Quality, Supply Chain, Manufacturing (internal and external production), Demand Planning and Scheduling and commercialization teams to ensure all activities required for a successful launch are delivered on time, in scope, and in compliance.

This position requires strong project management skills, operational discipline, and the ability to translate strategic innovation plans into actionable workstreams. The Project Manager will drive alignment, maintain clear communication channels, ensure timely completion of deliverables, identify risks, and keep launches moving forward with precision.

This individual plays a critical connective role—ensuring that the product launch stages are defined by specific timelines and launch dates and that the cross-functional teams execute in a seamless and coordinated series of staged deliverables and with needed documentation for a consistent on-time launch performance into the market.  

WHAT YOU’LL DO (MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES): 

1. Project Leadership & Stage-Gate Coordination

•  Lead end-to-end project management stages and cross functional coordination for on time progress for defined launch dates of all products in the pipeline. 
• Establish timelines, milestones, critical paths, risk registers, and contingency plans for all launch projects.
• Manage and facilitate the stage-gate process, ensuring cross-functional readiness at each gate review, including the completion of all documents across all functions required for a seamless process for the coordinated delivery of raw materials, confirmed and fixed production schedules, quality and regulatory documentation, marketing campaign support for all launches. These steps and coordination are the same whether the product is being produced internally or with 3rd party co-manufacturers.
• Maintain transparent reporting of project status, risks, and dependencies through dashboards and project documentation.

2. Cross-Functional Alignment & Execution

• Work closely with the cross-functional teams and key product stakeholders to build actionable project plans for on-time launches.
• Coordinate cross-functional team deliverables including R&D, Medical Affairs, Regulatory, QA/QC, Supply Chain, Packaging, Marketing, Sales, and Finance.
• Ensure all teams understand their roles, deliverables, timelines, and interdependencies throughout the launch cycle.
• Facilitate routine project meetings, document outcomes, and drive teams toward accountability and alignment.

3. Operational & Commercialization Readiness

• Oversee all commercialization activities, including:
• Finalizing product master records, RFP’s (if 3rd party co-man is involved), ingredient and finished product specifications, regulatory and label documentation, production schedules and production volumes
• Packaging development, artwork, and claims review
• Regulatory submissions, label compliance, and documentation readiness
• Manufacturing readiness, supply chain planning, and procurement timelines
• Market launch plan coordination with Marketing and Sales
• Ensure all materials needed for launch—including pricing, channel data, product copy, training materials, regulatory documentation, and inventory plans—are delivered on schedule.

4. Documentation, Compliance & Quality Coordination

• Maintain accurate records of project decisions, specifications, approvals, and version control across all launch-related documents.
• Support Regulatory, QA, and Compliance teams by ensuring project deliverables meet standards for dietary supplement cGMP, label accuracy, ingredient/claim substantiation, and internal SOPs.
• Coordinate hand-offs and alignment between development, production, and commercialization phases to ensure consistent quality and regulatory integrity.

5. Risk Identification & Problem Solving

• Identify project risks early and collaboratively develop mitigation strategies.
• Resolve cross-functional conflicts, timeline risks, or resource gaps by bringing together the right teams and proposing solutions.
• Proactively escalate issues to leadership when needed, with clear recommended actions.

6. Performance Metrics & Continuous Improvement

• Support post-launch reviews to evaluate execution, performance vs. forecasts, and improvement opportunities.
• Develop standardized processes, templates, and tools that enhance project predictability, efficiency, and communication.
• Track KPIs for launch performance, stage-gate discipline, and project delivery outcomes.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED (KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE):

• Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Business, Product Development, Quality Assurance, or related field.
• 3–5 years of project management experience, ideally within consumer health, CPG, dietary supplements, wellness, food science, or similar categories.
• Experience working in innovation pipelines, technical product development, or commercialization environments.
• Strong understanding of cross-functional workstreams (R&D, regulatory, packaging, supply chain, production, marketing, etc.).
• Comfort managing projects that involve scientific content, clinical insights, and regulatory compliance.
• Exceptional organizational skills with demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency with project management tools (Smartsheet, Click-up, NetSuites, Ziflow MS Project, or similar).
• Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate across internal teams and external partners.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial, matrixed organization.
• PMP certification or project management training is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to sit for extended periods of time while maintaining focus and productivity.
• Perform repetitive tasks, including typing and data entry, and work for prolonged periods at a computer screen.
• Ability to travel occasionally for business needs, including attending meetings, trainings, or company events. 
• Ability to maintain composure and professionalism in a fast-paced, high-demand work environment.