We have an exciting opportunity available for a Director, International Product Development located out of our corporate office in Bloomington, Minnesota.  This position is responsible for leading international product development and business initiatives across the Dairy Queen brand.  Requires development of product innovation ideas, projects, relationships, assets, and the prioritization between short and long-term initiatives needed to fulfill product strategies.  Position to apply strong business intuition, and influence in both direct and indirect reporting relationships across the business, especially with all international franchisees.  Works closely with all functions and levels to ensure alignment of all new products programs, processes and initiatives.  This role requires both strong business and technical experience in food service product development.   This position will own and drive projects in addition to leading a team. This position supports all international regions and markets, which includes China, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Latin America & Caribbean, along with new market entry from a product development perspective.Key Accountabilities Include:Using strong leadership, strategic, creative thinking skills, and positive influence, oversee the development and prioritization of the new and core product pipeline.   Define strategic innovative product development standards and processes to that drive sales and transactions globally.  As needed, lead cross functional teams and vendors through complex projects from idea to implementation.  Collaborate internally and externally to drive business results.  Make timely and effective decisions and recommendations on complex issues, drawing from significant industry experience.  Establish an environment of coaching and development among both direct and indirect reports.  Must be present and available for routine interactions.  Consistent display of a strong sense of ownership and instill high expectations for team.   Foster a variety of thinking and creative styles to solve challenging business issues. Work closely with external vendors and suppliers to develop partnerships and strengthen our pipeline of innovative solutions and technologies.  Lead the generation of ideas (ideas can come from the market, franchisees, vendors, suppliers, idea generation sessions, etc.) and utilize that pool of ideas to drive product innovation. Interpret international competitors’ activities, industry and consumer trends and food technology advancements to conceptualize and develop products and platforms which drive operating efficiencies and IDQ profitability.  Initiate technology development and product development processes that support strategically significant business opportunities and competitive advantage.  Think globally and long term when ideating, developing and strategizing.Develop strong business relationships with both internal and external partners, including key external vendors, franchisees and all internal departments to ensure cross-functional execution is achieved.  Work closely with franchisees to influence their understanding and support of the product innovation strategies and plans.  Present information, strategies, and new product concepts to executives, cross functional leaders, franchisees and professional organizations in a manner that influences, inspires action and achieves established corporate goals. 
