Head of Research And Development

Pollock & Associates; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading beauty innovator in South Africa is looking for an experienced Head of R&D. This executive role involves shaping the innovation pipeline, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving product development strategies. The ideal candidate has over 10 years in R&D leadership with expertise in beauty care formulation and solid project management skills. This is a rare chance to join the executive leadership team and influence innovation in the beauty care industry.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive R&D leadership and product development.
• Expertise in beauty care formulation and clinical testing.
• Knowledge of global cosmetic regulations.

Responsibilities

• Steer the R&D roadmap in line with company strategy.
• Ensure scientific credibility of claims.
• Monitor global regulatory compliance.
• Manage the portfolio from concept to launch.
• Mentor a high-performing scientific team.
• Prepare departmental budgets.

Skills

R&D leadership

Project management

Team leadership

Regulatory compliance

Sustainable packaging integration

Education

MSc or PhD in Chemistry or related discipline

Job description

This is an EXCO appointment. A leading beauty innovator is seeking a seasoned Head of R&D to shape and execute its innovation pipeline. This executive role carries responsibility for scientific leadership, regulatory compliance, and driving the company’s product development strategy to deliver measurable growth. This is a rare opportunity to join the executive leadership team and drive innovation at the forefront of the beauty care industry.

Essential Requirements:

• An MSc or PhD in Chemistry or a related discipline,
• 10+ years of progressive R&D leadership and product development
• Expertise in professional beauty care formulation, high-concentration actives, clinical testing, and global cosmetic regulations is essential.
• Strong capability in project management, team leadership, and the integration of sustainable packaging and raw materials will be critical to success.

Key responsibilities include

• Steering the R&D roadmap in line with company strategy
• Ensuring scientific credibility of claims
• Monitoring global regulatory compliance
• Managing the whole portfolio from concept to launch.
• Mentor a high-performing scientific team
• Preparing departmental budgets