Head of Beauty Innovation & Product Development

RBW Consulting; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

RBW Consulting is seeking an experienced innovation leader to shape the future of beauty and wellness products in the UK. This strategic role drives development across topical and liquid consumer products, at the intersection of science, partnerships and commercial strategy, with visibility across the business.

You will lead formulation, manage diverse projects, mentor technical teams, and build capabilities to sustain growth. Travel to sites across the UK and Europe as required.

Qualifications

• Degree in a scientific discipline related to cosmetics/chemistry.
• Experience leading product development in beauty/personal care.
• Track record of bringing innovative products to market.
• Experience leading technical teams and building capability.
• Knowledge of formulation performance, stability and manufacturing requirements.
• Familiarity with quality systems and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead innovation strategy and new product development across beauty, personal care and wellness categories.
• Develop and execute commercially relevant innovation pipelines aligned with market opportunities and customer needs.
• Drive formulation development from concept through scale‑up, validation and commercial launch.
• Provide technical leadership across formulation science, product optimisation and manufacturing support.
• Build partnerships with commercial, marketing, operations, quality and regulatory teams to accelerate delivery.
• Manage a diverse portfolio of development projects balancing innovation, timelines and budgets.
• Lead, mentor and develop high‑performing technical teams and foster a culture of innovation.
• Act as a recognised technical leader to shape category strategy and future growth opportunities.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Project leadership

Communication skills

Team leadership

Education

Chemistry degree

Cosmetic Science

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Chemical Engineering

Job description

RBW Consulting is seeking an experienced innovation leader to shape the future of beauty and wellness products in the UK. This strategic role drives development across topical and liquid consumer products, at the intersection of science, partnerships and commercial strategy, with visibility across the business.

You will lead formulation, manage diverse projects, mentor technical teams, and build capabilities to sustain growth. Travel to sites across the UK and Europe as required.