Lead Product Developer - Cosmetics

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental & vision insurance

Retirement savings plan with company-m

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Product Developer in Pretoria to spearhead cosmetic product development from concept to launch. You will lead formulators and R&D chemists, drive innovation, ensure regulatory compliance, and align with market needs.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Cosmetic Science or Chemistry with 8+ years in development and at least 3 years in leadership. You will guide formulation, testing, and cross-functional collaboration in a dynamic beauty environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in cosmetic product development, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, formulation techniques, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven track record of successfully launching innovative beauty products.
• Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations (FDA, EU Cosmetics Regulation).
• Excellent leadership, project management, and team collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in laboratory equipment and analytical techniques.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for detail.
• Passion for the beauty and wellness sector and a commitment to scientific excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead ideation, formulation, and development of innovative cosmetic products across skincare, makeup, and haircare.
• Manage and mentor a team of product formulators and R&D chemists.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring safe and efficient workflows.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and regulatory to ensure market alignment and compliance.
• Research raw materials, technologies, and market trends.
• Develop and optimize formulations for stability, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness.
• Prepare development reports and present findings to senior management.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and provide technical expertise through product lifecycle.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team collaboration

Cosmetic chemistry

Formulation

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's or PhD in Cosmetic Science / Chemistry

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Analytical techniques

Job description

Our client, a renowned name in the beauty and wellness industry, is seeking an experienced and innovative Lead Product Developer to join their team in Pretoria, Gauteng. This is a critical role responsible for spearheading the creation and innovation of new cosmetic products from concept to launch. You will lead a team of formulators and researchers, driving scientific advancement and market responsiveness. This position requires a deep understanding of cosmetic chemistry, formulation, regulatory compliance, and consumer trends. Join a dynamic organization that values creativity and scientific excellence, contributing to the development of cutting-edge beauty products that captivate the market. This role is integral to our client's continued success and commitment to delivering high-quality beauty solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the ideation, formulation, and development of innovative cosmetic products across various categories (skincare, makeup, haircare).
• Manage and mentor a team of product formulators and R&D chemists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to safety standards.
• Collaborate closely with marketing, sales, and regulatory affairs departments to ensure product alignment with market needs and compliance.
• Conduct thorough research on raw materials, new technologies, and emerging market trends.
• Develop and optimize product formulations, ensuring stability, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness.
• Prepare comprehensive product development reports and present findings to senior management.
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and provide technical expertise throughout the product lifecycle.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in cosmetic product development, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of cosmetic ingredients, formulation techniques, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven track record of successfully launching innovative beauty products.
• Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations (e.g., FDA, EU Cosmetics Regulation).
• Excellent leadership, project management, and team collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in laboratory equipment and analytical techniques.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for detail.
• Passion for the beauty and wellness sector and a commitment to scientific excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ** ZAR**.
• Opportunity to lead innovation in the **beauty and wellness industry**.
• Work with a talented and dedicated team in **Pretoria**.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Employee discounts on products and services.