Lead Cosmetic Product Developer

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Product samples allowance

Access to state-of-the-art lab

Hybrid work model

Team-building activities

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, is seeking a Lead Cosmetic Product Developer to drive the end-to-end development of cosmetic and personal care products. You will lead a team of formulators, oversee formulation, stability testing, and production readiness, ensuring compliance and market relevance.

The role requires a strong background in cosmetic science, leadership experience, and a strategic mindset to translate trends into effective products.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Cosmetic Science or a related field.
• 8+ years of hands-on cosmetic product development and launches.
• Experience leading a team of scientists or product developers.
• In-depth knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, formulation techniques, and testing protocols.
• Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations and compliance.
• Excellent project management and stakeholder collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the product development lifecycle from ideation to production.
• Mentor a team of cosmetic chemists and PD specialists.
• Conduct market research to identify trends and consumer needs.
• Develop innovative formulations meeting safety, efficacy, and performance standards.
• Collaborate with marketing, regulatory, sourcing, and manufacturing for launches.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources to deliver projects on time.
• Ensure formulations and manufacturing comply with ISO and GMP standards.
• Source and evaluate raw materials and supplier quality.
• Prepare technical documentation including reports and stability data.
• Stay updated on advances in cosmetic science and technologies.

Skills

Cosmetic chemistry

Team leadership

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Market research

Education

Master's or PhD in Cosmetic Science

Advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Tools

HPLC

GC-MS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Cosmetic Product Developer to join their esteemed Beauty & Wellness division. This role is based in George, Western Cape, ZA , and will involve a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. The Lead Developer will be at the forefront of conceptualizing, formulating, and bringing to market a range of high-quality cosmetic and personal care products. You will lead a team of talented formulators and researchers, ensuring adherence to stringent quality standards, regulatory compliance, and market responsiveness. This position requires a deep understanding of cosmetic chemistry, market trends, and consumer needs within the beauty industry. If you are a visionary leader with a passion for creating groundbreaking beauty products and have a strong background in cosmetic science, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation and concept development to formulation, stability testing, and final production.
• Oversee and mentor a team of cosmetic chemists and product development specialists, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Conduct comprehensive market research to identify emerging trends, unmet consumer needs, and competitive landscape analysis in the beauty and personal care sector.
• Develop innovative and effective product formulations that meet safety, efficacy, and performance requirements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, regulatory affairs, sourcing, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless product launches.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to deliver projects on schedule and within scope.
• Ensure all product formulations and manufacturing processes comply with relevant industry regulations and quality standards (e.g., ISO, GMP).
• Source and evaluate raw materials, identifying potential suppliers and ensuring the quality and cost-effectiveness of ingredients.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including formulation reports, stability data, and manufacturing guidelines.
• Stay abreast of scientific advancements, new ingredients, and cutting-edge technologies in cosmetic science and product development.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific field.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in cosmetic product development, with a proven track record of successfully launching new products.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing a team of scientists or product developers.
• In-depth knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, formulation techniques, and product testing protocols (e.g., stability, efficacy, safety).
• Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations and compliance requirements.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in laboratory equipment and analytical techniques relevant to cosmetic formulation.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Creative mindset with a passion for innovation and a keen eye for market trends.
• Experience working with both skincare and color cosmetics is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive private medical insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Generous allowance for product samples and professional development.
• Opportunity to work with state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities.
• Be part of a dynamic and forward‑thinking company that is shaping the future of beauty.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work‑life balance.
• Regular team‑building activities and opportunities for industry networking.