Senior Product Development Technologist

Zachary Daniels Recruitment; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Senior Product Development Technologist to oversee the development of innovative cosmetics products. This role requires 6+ years of experience in formulation, strong skills in supplier management, and a deep understanding of cosmetic science. You will collaborate cross-functionally and drive technical excellence in product development. The position offers a hybrid work model with an annual salary of £65,000 plus bonuses.

Qualifications

• 6+ years’ experience in formulation or technical roles within cosmetics, personal care, or pharmaceuticals.
• Deep understanding of raw materials and formulation chemistry.
• Proven experience developing new products end-to-end from concept to commercialization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical development of new own-brand ranges across multiple categories.
• Collaborate closely with commercial teams to translate brand direction into high-quality product concepts.
• Oversee supplier technical compliance and product testing.

Skills

Formulation Chemistry

Supplier Management

Testing Protocols

Regulatory Standards

Project Management

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, or related

Job description

Senior Product Development Technologist | Cosmetics, Skincare & Wellness | LONDON | Hybrid | £65,000 + Bonus

We're looking for a hands‑on innovator who lives and breathes cosmetics. This isn't an arm's‑length assurance role as it's all about steering new products from concept through to shelf.

You’ll play a pivotal role in driving technical excellence across this brand’s portfolio, creating original, high‑performing formulations across cosmetics, skincare, body care, and wellness categories. From ingredient sourcing to formulation stability, from testing protocols to sustainability standards, you’ll own the process end to end and have the creative freedom to be the developer!

What you’ll be doing:

• Lead the technical development of new own‑brand ranges across multiple categories. Ensure innovation, compliance, and quality meet both internal expectations and global standards.
• Collaborate closely with the commercial buying and other internal stakeholders to translate brand direction into technically feasible, high‑quality product concepts.
• Oversee supplier technical compliance, ensuring robust documentation, safety, and ethical standards are maintained across all partners.
• Formulate and refine products hands‑on, balancing creativity with regulatory and cost considerations.
• Act as the technical authority across formulation, stability, claims validation, testing, and safety assessments.
• Stay ahead of the curve with ingredient and technology trends – identifying new materials, sustainable processes, and breakthrough innovations.
• Conduct lab evaluations via 3rd parties, supplier audits, and factory trials, ensuring scale‑up and production meet performance and quality standards.
• Support cross‑functional critical paths, ensuring technical deliverables are achieved on time and to budget.

Who we’re looking for

• Degree (or equivalent) in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, or a related technical discipline.
• 6+ years’ experience in formulation or technical roles within cosmetics, personal care, or pharmaceuticals.
• Deep understanding of raw materials, formulation chemistry, testing protocols, safety assessments, and regulatory frameworks.
• Proven experience developing new products end‑to‑end from concept to commercialisation.
• Skilled in supplier management, lab testing, and interpreting technical data.
• Strong communicator, able to bridge scientific detail with commercial clarity.
• Organised and proactive, with the ability to prioritise multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Collaborative but confident working independently. You’ll be a problem‑solver and creator at heart.