R&D Manager

Select Aust Sydney; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Randstad partnered with a premier contract manufacturer in Sunshine West, VIC, seeks an experienced R&D Manager - Therapeutic goods to lead the formulation and development team. You will own the end-to-end research and development lifecycle for regulated products and work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure ARTG compliance.

The role requires 3+ years in topical product development, strong regulatory understanding, and a proven track record from concept to production.

Qualifications

• 3+ years' experience in developing sunscreens/topical therapeutic products.
• Strong regulatory knowledge for topical therapeutic goods (TGA/ARTG).
• Bachelor's degree in a related science field is required.
• Proven track record from concept to full-scale production.
• Leadership and clear communication with clients and teams.
• Eligible to work unrestricted in Australia.

Responsibilities

• Own the R&D lifecycle for regulated therapeutic products, reporting to the MD.
• Develop NPD strategies with Sales and Marketing to align with market trends.
• Lead formulation, process design, and robust scale-up for commercial batches.
• Manage ARTG listings, dossiers, SDS, and efficacy/safety documentation.
• Oversee stability testing and develop product specifications.
• Collaborate with Quality and Production to troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Regulatory knowledge

NPD strategy

Formulation & scale-up

Education

Bachelor's degree in Formulation Science / Pharmaceutical Science / Chemistry

Job description

Job Type: Permanent position | Full time position

Job Description

Randstad has exclusively partnered with a premier, rapidly growing contract manufacturer specializing in high-quality skincare, sunscreens, and cosmetic products. Operating from a cutting-edge facility in Sunshine West, VIC, our client prides themselves on upholding the highest regulatory standards to deliver exceptional products to a diverse portfolio of brands. Their brand new facility is now seeking an experienced and visionary R&D Manager - Therapeutic goods to lead their formulation and development team. The Role Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the R&D Manager will take full ownership of the research and development lifecycle for regulated therapeutic products.

Key Responsibilities

• NPD Strategy & Collaboration: Partner closely with Sales and Marketing teams to design and execute short- and long-term new product development strategies that align with market trends.
• Formulation & Scale-Up: Oversee the development of new formulations, design manufacturing processes, and establish robust scale-up programs to ensure commercial batches consistently meet specifications.
• Regulatory & ARTG Listings: Manage the product listing and registration process with the ARTG; compile dossiers, SDS, and efficacy/safety documentation required for local and international compliance.
• Testing & Stability: Develop, manage, and oversee comprehensive product stability programs, prepare product specifications, and assist with test method development.
• Stakeholder & Supplier Management: Act as the key point of contact for customers and regulatory bodies. Evaluate new raw materials, packaging, and suppliers to ensure strict adherence to quality standards.
• Cross-Functional Problem Solving: Work collaboratively with the Quality and Production teams to troubleshoot, identify root causes, and resolve any product quality or manufacturing issues.

What you bring

• Industry Experience: A minimum of 3 years' experience in the development of sunscreens and topical therapeutic products for local and/or overseas markets.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of regulatory compliance regarding topical therapeutic goods (TGA) and ARTG listings is highly regarded.
• Education: A Bachelor's degree (minimum) in Formulation Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemistry, or a related Science discipline.
• Proven Track Record: Demonstrated experience managing the entire product development lifecycle from concept directly into full-scale production.
• Leadership & Communication: Exceptional communication skills with the ability to confidently liaise with clients, regulatory authorities, and internal teams at all levels.
• Work Rights: Applicants must hold full, unrestricted working rights in Australia.

At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all.

We actively encourage applications from any background.