Director, New Product Development

Director, New Product Development (Sports Programming) Canlan Sports is North America’s largest private‑sector owner and operator of recreational sports complexes. The company’s success is driven by innovative programming, world‑class sports communities, and a deep understanding of customer expectations, leading to industry‑leading participant experiences. Hybrid Position – Corporate East Head Office Job Summary The Director, New Product Development identifies growth platforms and opportunities across the business through market and product trend analysis, customer insights, competitive positioning, and emerging business models. The role builds business cases, proof of concept, validated hypotheses, and leads project teams to execute go‑to‑market plans for new products, enhancements, and categories. The director works closely with the Management Team, Product team, and mobilizes cross‑functional project teams to ensure strategies are well defined, assess resource requirements, and articulate implementation needs for successful launch and first‑year execution. Responsibilities also include business development in tournament expansion, league expansion, program expansion in third‑party facilities, and growth through M&A. Responsibilities Develop and execute strategic growth plans to achieve product innovation and business development targets. Develop and document a deep understanding of the sports and recreation landscape, including product categories, segments, customers, market trends, technology, and distribution channels to identify profitable growth opportunities. Analyze industry structure, go‑to‑market models, competitive dynamics, and market attractiveness to inform strategy development and priority setting. Assist in the development of best‑in‑class individual sports complex sales & business development plans. Create and communicate product innovation/business development goals and ensure appropriate teams are informed on the progress of those goals. Work with internal teams and sports complexes to ensure the highest level of customer experience. Establish strategic partnerships with other companies and partners to leverage their networks. Conduct negotiations to secure favorable agreement terms for the organization. Engage with executives and a broad range of stakeholders to help oversee the direction and resolve issues in a timely manner. Qualifications And Education Post‑Secondary Degree in Sports Management, Leisure Management, Business Administration, or equivalent. Minimum of 5 years of experience working or leading cross‑functional teams. Experience with change management and leading transition and implementation work. Experience preferably in sports, entertainment, or hospitality services. Experience working with senior decision makers in multiple locations. Experience in departmental partnerships, report writing, people management, and performance management. Familiarity and experience with project management, product, and sales software. Solid proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Publisher, PowerPoint). Proficient in online research. Excellent interpersonal, presentation, written, and communication skills. Demonstrated ability to lead and influence others outside of a direct reporting structure. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with senior management and staff. Demonstrated experience in training, coaching, and mentoring. Demonstrated ability to develop, plan, execute, and complete multiple projects simultaneously. Demonstrated ability to plan and influence budgets. Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines and organizational requirements effectively. Self‑motivated, professional, and flexible; able to work both independently and as part of a team. Ability to travel on a regular basis (approximately 15%). Seniority Level Director Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Strategy/Planning and Information Technology Canlan Sports is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on protected classifications. Reasonable accommodation is available for qualified individuals with disabilities, upon request. #J-18808-Ljbffr