Senior Development Chemist - SPF Specialist

WOODSTOCK RECRUITMENT LIMITED; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer in the cosmetic sector is looking for a Senior Development Chemist with a passion for suncare. The role involves leading the development of SPF products, managing a team, and ensuring compliance with global regulations. This position offers the chance to be an expert within the company and to drive innovation in sun care formulations.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in cosmetic formulation at a senior level.
• Proven track record with globally compliant SPF products.
• Experience managing or mentoring junior team members.

Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and development of innovative SPF products.
• Oversee product scale-up and manage mentor lab technicians.
• Train R&D colleagues in SPF formulation.

Skills

Cosmetic formulation

Leadership

SPF product development

Regulatory knowledge

Technical presentation skills

Education

BSc or equivalent in a life science subject

Tools

Labsphere UV analysis equipment

Job description

Are you Senior Development Chemist within the cosmetic and personal care manufacturing industry?

Live and breathe everything suncare, skincare, SPF?

Looking to join a leading, well known manufacturer with some of the most credible leaders in the industry?

Luckily for you, our client have partnered with Woodstock Recruitment to support them in this hire

SPF development will focus as a key pillar in the ambitious growth plan, and will provide an opportunity for the successful applicant to make the role their own, being the internal expert, the go to person for all things SPF

What you will do:

• Lead the formulation and development of innovative, globally compliant SPF products.
• Oversee all aspects of SPF product scale-up, including pilot batches, factory trials, and first production runs.
• Represent the technical team in customer meetings and presentations, working closely with the Commercial team.
• Manage and mentor at least one lab technician, supporting their professional development.
• Train and upskill R&D colleagues in SPF formulation and testing.
• Collaborate with suppliers and regulatory bodies to stay ahead of industry developments.
• Drive innovation by monitoring new materials, testing protocols, and competitor activity.
• Oversee technical transfer projects and ensure seamless handover to manufacturing.
• Maintain and develop methods using Labsphere UV analysis equipment, including data interpretation and reporting.
• Help create a positive H&S culture, by continually coaching a safe working environment
• Helping to promote a positive working atmosphere within the company.

What you will need:

• BSc or equivalent in a life science subject
• Extensive experience in cosmetic and toiletry formulation at a senior level, with a focus on sun care
• Proven track record of developing globally compliant SPF products.
• Deep understanding of global sun care regulations and testing protocols.
• Experience in managing or mentoring junior team members.
• Proficient in Labsphere UV analysis equipment and data interpretation.
• Confident in delivering technical presentations to internal and external stakeholders.