Innovation Project Manager I

Job Title: Innovation Project Manager I
Location: Morristown, NJ (100% Remote)
Duration: 6 Months+ (Possible Extension)

Part Time: 20 hours per week
Pay Range: $52 - $55/hr. on W2
 
Job Purpose:
The Innovation Project Manager (Contractor) leads cross-functional teams in the end-to-end delivery of New Product Development (NPD) projects, driving innovation aligned with strategic growth objectives.
This role is responsible for implementing structured innovation processes, including stage gate methodologies, to evaluate and advance projects efficiently.
The ideal candidate brings deep experience in consumer healthcare and Client innovation, with a proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional initiatives.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and deliver NPD innovation projects from concept to launch, ensuring alignment with business goals and consumer needs.
• Define and execute project strategies in collaboration with functional partners.
• Manage cross-functional project teams across Marketing, R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Regulatory, and other key areas.
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, including Product, objectives, timelines, milestones, and resource requirements.
• Ensure timely delivery of project Product, schedules, risk mitigation plans, budgets, and resource allocations.
• Facilitate project kick-offs, workshops, and regular team meetings to drive execution.
• Structure team discussions and enable timely decision-making.
• Represent projects in stage gate governance and portfolio reviews.
• Communicate project status, risks, and progress to stakeholders proactively.
• Maintain accuracy in project and portfolio management systems.
• Conduct post-project reviews and drive continuous improvement.
• Assess team capabilities and foster a culture of cross-functional collaboration and execution excellence.

 
Key Working Relationships:

• Cross-functional teams: Marketing, R&D, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Graphics, Finance, Regulatory, Medical, Legal.
• Portfolio Management and Project Governance teams.
• Global PM Community for standards and best practices.
• Local Innovation Leads (Growth Hub) and Brand Leads.
• External partners and collaborators.

 
Skills, Experience & Knowledge Requirements:
Education:

• Bachelor’s degree (required).
• PMP® certification (preferred).

 
Experience:

• 5+ years leading Client NPD innovation projects.
• Experience in regulated environments (OTC, Cosmetics, Consumer Health, Food Supplements).
• Preferred additional experience in Manufacturing, Quality, R&D, Innovation Design, Brand Leadership.
• Familiarity with NDA and 510(k) project requirements.
• Proven success in leading cross-functional teams and external partners.

 
Skills:

• Strong understanding of New Product Development innovation processes and stage gate methodologies.
• Excellent communication, planning, and organizational skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to navigate complex, decentralized environments.
• Comfortable interacting with senior leadership.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a challenger approach.