Product Development Manager (Perfume/Cosmetics)

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Product Development Manager to lead our product development initiatives within the perfume or cosmetics sector. This role involves overseeing the entire lifecycle of product creation from conceptualization and formulation to launch and market introduction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cosmetic science, fragrance formulation, or related fields, combined with project management and leadership skills to drive new product innovations that align with market trends and consumer needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Strategy & Innovation:

• Develop and execute product development strategies aligned with company goals and market demands.

• Identify emerging trends, customer preferences, and competitive landscape to inform new product ideas.

• Collaborate with marketing, R&D, and sales teams to define product concepts and unique selling propositions.

Product Development Lifecycle Management:

• Lead the end-to-end development process for new perfume products, including ideation, formulation, testing, packaging, and launch.

• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure projects are completed on schedule and within scope.

• Coordinate with internal teams and external suppliers/vendors for sample development, testing, regulatory compliance, and production.

Technical Expertise & Quality Assurance:

• Oversee formulation development ensuring safety, efficacy, stability, and regulatory compliance.

• Ensure all products meet quality standards and certifications required by industry regulations.

• Troubleshoot technical challenges during product development phases.

Team Leadership & Collaboration:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the product development team members.

• Foster cross-functional collaboration with marketing, sales, supply chain, regulatory affairs, and manufacturing departments.

• Communicate progress and challenges effectively to senior management.

Market Launch & Post-Launch Monitoring:

• Collaborate with marketing for successful product launches including packaging design and promotional materials.

• Monitor product performance post-launch and implement improvements based on customer feedback and sales data.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelors degree or higher in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field. Advanced degrees preferred.

• Minimum 8 years of experience in product development within the perfume or cosmetics industry.

• Strong knowledge of fragrance formulation, cosmetic ingredient functionality, industry regulations, and quality standards.

• Proven track record of managing multiple product development projects from concept to launch.

• Excellent project management skills and experience using relevant tools/software.

• Strong leadership abilities with experience managing multidisciplinary teams.

• Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

• Passion for beauty trends, innovation, and consumer insights.