Lead Product Development Chemist - FMCG

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

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work arrangement

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid provided

Retirement fund contributions

Professional growth & conferences

Job summary

Placements24 are seeking a Lead Product Development Chemist for a fully remote role in the FMCG sector. You will drive end-to-end product development from concept through scale-up to commercialization, leveraging strong formulation science and regulatory expertise while guiding a cross-functional, remote team.

You will oversee laboratory work, pilot plant scale-up, and collaboration with marketing and manufacturing to ensure timely delivery of market-ready products.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or related scientific discipline.
• 8–10 years of hands-on experience in product development in FMCG.
• Proven track record of launching products from concept to market.
• Deep knowledge of formulation science, ingredient functionality, and analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of GLP and GMP.
• Experience with pilot plant operations and scale-up.
• Excellent project management, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• Proficiency with statistical analysis software and LIMS.
• Ability to thrive in a remote, multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D and formulation of new FMCG products aligned with market needs.
• Conduct laboratory experimentation including ingredient screening and stability testing.
• Oversee scale-up from lab to pilot plant to full production.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for cost-effectiveness and quality.
• Ensure formulations comply with South African and international regulations.
• Collaborate with marketing, procurement, manufacturing, and QA teams.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for R&D.
• Stay updated on new materials and scientific advances in FMCG.
• Prepare technical reports and patent documentation as required.
• Mentor junior chemists and researchers.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Formulation science

Analytical techniques

GLP/GMP knowledge

LIMS proficiency

Remote collaboration

Education

MSc/PhD in Chemistry/related

Tools

Pilot plant operations

Statistical analysis software

LIMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Product Development Chemist to spearhead their research and development initiatives. This is a fully remote position, allowing exceptional talent to contribute from anywhere. The successful candidate will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of product development, from conceptualization and formulation to scale-up and commercialization of new FMCG products. This role requires a deep understanding of chemical principles, formulation science, and regulatory compliance within the consumer goods space. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a passion for scientific discovery, and a proven ability to manage complex projects. As a remote Lead Chemist, you will leverage cutting-edge digital tools and platforms to collaborate with cross-functional teams, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality, market-leading products. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in FMCG and seek individuals who share this drive. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence product strategy and shape the future of our client's product portfolio from a distance. The company fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional growth for its remote workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research, development, and formulation of new FMCG products, aligning with market trends and consumer needs.
• Conduct extensive laboratory experimentation, including ingredient screening, stability testing, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee the scale-up process from laboratory bench to pilot plant and full commercial production.
• Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to ensure efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and product quality.
• Ensure all product formulations comply with relevant South African and international regulatory standards and safety guidelines.
• Collaborate effectively with marketing, procurement, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets for R&D initiatives.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies, raw materials, and scientific advancements relevant to the FMCG industry.
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and patent applications as required.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior chemists and research scientists within the team.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Science, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of hands‑on experience in product development, specifically within the FMCG industry (e.g., personal care, home care, food & beverage).
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products from concept to market.
• In‑depth knowledge of formulation science, ingredient functionality, and analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Experience with pilot plant operations and process scale‑up is essential.
• Excellent project management, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, particularly in a remote , multidisciplinary team environment.
• Must be self‑directed, organized, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and drive scientific advancements.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering significant lifestyle flexibility.
• Generous performance‑based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and attending international conferences.
• Access to state‑of-the‑art research tools and resources.
• Be part of a pioneering R&D team shaping the future of FMCG innovation.
• Supportive and collaborative remote work culture.