Product Development Director Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Director of Product Development

 Reports to: General Manager

 Location: Edina, MN Onsite

The Director of Product Development leads the full lifecycle of product strategy, creation, and performance across all travel programs, with a strong focus on cruise and land-based itineraries for affinity and alumni organizations. This role blends strategic vision with hands‑on execution and is responsible for ensuring that Go Next’s product portfolio is competitive, innovative, financially sound, and aligned with company goals. Working within a small, entrepreneurial tour‑operator environment, this leader must excel at research, supplier negotiation, pricing oversight, risk mitigation, and cross‑functional collaboration to drive top‑line revenue and exceptional guest experiences.

·        Lead research‑driven development of new travel products and enhancements.

·        Recommend new itineraries and product concepts aligned with affinity and alumni association needs and organizational strategy.

·        Conduct market research, competitive analysis, and trend evaluation to identify opportunities for product innovation.

·        Source and evaluate suppliers, including cruise partners, destination management companies (DMCs), hotels, and land operators.

·        Lead negotiations to secure favorable pricing, amenities, service levels, and contract terms.

·        Oversee contract review and approvals to ensure alignment with company standards and priorities.

·        Establish sell prices, determine cost components (COGS), and manage product margins to meet financial targets.

·        Build and maintain pricing and financial models that support revenue optimization.

·        Partner with key stakeholders to align pricing with market conditions and company goals.

·        Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure service quality and long‑term collaboration.

·        Monitor supplier performance and address issues as needed.

·        Identify renegotiation or enhancement opportunities to improve product value.

·        Assess risks related to operational performance, supplier reliability, financial exposure, and global conditions.

·        Develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans to protect travelers, revenue, and brand reputation.

·        Ensure cross‑functional alignment on risk protocols and decision‑making frameworks.

·        Own and manage top‑line revenue across all products.

·        Track product performance, forecast revenue, and recommend adjustments to pricing, sourcing, or product mix.

·        Provide regular reporting and insights to the General Manager and leadership team.

·        Initiate product marketing briefs and collaborate with Marketing on positioning and messaging.

·        Approve product descriptions, itineraries, promotional details, and final marketing assets.

·        Ensure accuracy, relevance, and compelling storytelling for partner and consumer audiences.

·        Provide day‑to‑day supervision, guidance, and prioritization for one direct report to ensure alignment with product and business objectives.

·        Set performance expectations, deliver regular feedback, and support professional development and growth.

·        10-15+ years of experience in travel product development or a related field (cruise or tour operator experience preferred).

·        Demonstrated success in supplier sourcing, negotiation, and relationship management.

·        Strong analytical capabilities including margin management, financial modeling, and competitive analysis.

·        Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

·        Proven ability to thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment.

·        Bachelor’s degree in Business, Hospitality, Tourism Management, or a related field preferred.

·        Self-directed, strategic thinker with strong execution skills.

·        Highly collaborative and relationship‑oriented.

·        Entrepreneurial, flexible, and proactive in identifying solutions.

·        Strong judgment, accountability, and decision‑making ability.

·        Ability to balance innovation with financial discipline.

·        Standard office environment with occasional travel required for supplier meetings, ship visits, or product research.

·        Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.