About the Role:As a key leader within the organization, the R&D Manager drives innovation across product development, processes, and operational strategy. This role is responsible for bringing new beverages and menu items to life-from concept to execution-ensuring they align with 7 Leaves' brand identity, quality standards, and operational capabilities.
The R&D Manager plays a critical role in enhancing the guest experience while supporting profitability and scalability. Working cross-functionally with Operations, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Training, this leader ensures that every product is thoughtfully developed, rigorously tested, and seamlessly executed across all locations.
This role also leads and develops the R&D team, fostering a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is both an innovator and a strong operator-someone who can turn ideas into scalable solutions that drive business performance and customer connection.
Location: Huntington Beach, CA - Primarily onsite at our Corporate Office and R&D Lab, with opportunities to visit store locations to support product testing and execution
Salary Range: $80,000 - $105,000 per year
What We Offer:- Team Member Discounts - Enjoy your favorite 7 Leaves drinks on and off the clock.
- Annual Performance Bonus - Competitive bonus opportunities for eligible team members based on individual and company performance.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package - Medical, dental, and vision insurance available for eligible team members to support your health and well-being.
- Leadership Development Programs - We invest in your growth through hands-on training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
- Collaborative & Supportive Culture - Be part of a dynamic team where creativity, authenticity, and fun are always on the menu.
Job Responsibilities: - Own the full lifecycle of product innovation-from concept ideation through development, testing, and final launch across all locations
- Develop new beverages and menu items that align with brand identity, customer preferences, and business goals while ensuring scalability
- Drive ongoing innovation by leveraging customer insights, market trends, and competitive analysis to introduce seasonal and core menu offerings
- Establish and uphold high standards for taste, presentation, and quality, ensuring a consistent and on-brand guest experience
- Design and execute structured product testing, including sensory evaluations, store trials, and performance analysis to validate readiness
- Use data, feedback, and operational insights to refine recipes and optimize product performance before and after launch
- Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Training to ensure seamless and successful product rollouts
- Develop efficient, scalable preparation methods and identify opportunities to simplify processes, reduce complexity, and improve consistency
- Build and maintain clear documentation and structured systems for recipes, processes, and product development workflows
- Align R&D initiatives with company objectives by partnering with leadership and providing data-driven recommendations on menu strategy
- Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and customer behavior to translate insights into actionable innovation strategies
- Lead store pilots and continuous improvement efforts while managing and developing the R&D team to foster a culture of innovation and accountability
Requirements and Qualifications:Experience and Education:- 5+ years of experience in product development, R&D, or culinary innovation (food & beverage or hospitality preferred)
- Proven ability to take products from concept to launch in a scalable environment
- Experience working cross-functionally with operations, marketing, and supply chain teams
- Strong understanding of operational workflows and store-level execution
- Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Culinary Arts, Business, or related field preferred
Leadership & Skills:- Strong creative and analytical thinking with a balance of innovation and practicality
- Ability to translate data, customer insights, and trends into actionable product strategies
- Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives
- Strong communication and collaboration skills across cross-functional teams
- High attention to detail and commitment to quality and consistency
- Proven leadership ability with experience coaching and developing team members
- Adaptable and solutions-oriented in a fast-paced environment
