Global Scent Category Leader - Fine Fragrance

dsm-firmenich; Paris; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unique career paths

Impact on millions of consumers

Cutting-edge research and creativity

Growth opportunities

Collaborative culture

Supportive community

Job summary

dsm-firmenich in Paris is seeking a Global Scent Category Leader for Fine Fragrance. This strategic role requires expertise in consumer insights and market dynamics to shape the category’s future through innovation.

The ideal candidate will bring 10-15 years of experience in the Fine Fragrance category, adept leadership, and the ability to influence strategy. Join us to drive impact and growth within a collaborative and inclusive culture.

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of successful experience in the Fine Fragrance category.
• Extensive experience leading high-value global wins with key customers.
• Deep knowledge of global Fine Fragrance consumers and markets.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive the innovation vision for the Fine Fragrance category.
• Leverage consumer insights to identify future opportunities and trends.
• Manage and develop an Innovation FDM while fostering expertise sharing.

Skills

Leadership

Consumer Insights

Market Intelligence

Fragrance Expertise

Education

Degree in Chemistry or technical scientific background

Job description

Global Scent Category Leader – Fine Fragrance

Paris, France

The Global Scent Category Leader – Fine Fragrance is a strategic leadership role within the Global Scent Unit, responsible for shaping the future of the category through consumer‑centric innovation, fragrance expertise and market vision.

The category expert will translate a deep understanding of consumer behaviour, market dynamics and olfactive trends into breakthrough fragrance strategies and innovation pipelines. Working closely with Marketing, Consumer Insights, Technical Development and Business Development teams, you will identify new growth opportunities, guide fragrance creation and accelerate differentiation in the marketplace.

In addition, you will play a key leadership role by managing Innovation FDMs, mentoring fragrance talent and strengthening category capabilities across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and drive the innovation vision and priorities for the Fine Fragrance category.
• Leverage consumer insights, market intelligence and olfactive expertise to identify future opportunities and trends.
• Lead fragrance exploration, prototyping and innovation programs using advanced creation methodologies and predictive tools.
• Partner with Technical Development to build and prioritise the innovation pipeline.
• Provide expert guidance on strategic customer briefs and commercial opportunities.
• Manage and develop an Innovation FDM while fostering expertise and knowledge sharing across the fragrance community.

You Bring

• Degree in Chemistry or a technical scientific background.
• 10‑15 years of successful experience in the Fine Fragrance category.
• Extensive experience leading and securing high‑value global wins with key customers.
• Deep knowledge of global Fine Fragrance consumers, markets and olfactive trends.
• Proven ability to influence innovation strategy and drive category growth.
• Strong leadership, coaching and collaboration skills in a matrix organisation.
• Fluency in English mandatory; French a strong advantage.

We Offer

• Unique career paths across health, nutrition and beauty – explore what drives you and receive the support to make it happen.
• A chance to impact millions of consumers every day – sustainability embedded in all we do.
• A science‑led company with cutting‑edge research and creativity – from biotech breakthroughs to sustainability game‑changers.
• Growth that keeps up with you – you join an industry leader that will develop your expertise and leadership.
• A culture that lifts you up – with collaborative teams, shared wins and people who cheer each other on.
• A community where your voice matters – it is essential to serve our customers well.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm‑firmenich we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute and feel they belong. We’re proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or anything else that makes you unique. If you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.