R&D Manager – Cosmetics

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced R&D Manager to lead the product development process, transforming consumer insights and scientific expertise into innovative products. This role will oversee end-to-end product development, ensuring quality, compliance, and timely execution while driving innovation in natural cosmetics and home ambiance categories. A strong focus on regulatory compliance in key markets such as China and Japan is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop the R&D team, providing clear direction, coaching, and support to build a strong and high-performing team.
• Manage the full product development cycle, from initial concept and formulation through testing, validation, and commercial launch.
• Identify and translate consumer needs, market trends, and brand strategies into innovative and commercially relevant product concepts.
• Ensure products meet applicable regulatory and quality requirements across international markets, particularly in China and Japan, in close coordination with Regulatory Affairs and Compliance teams.
• Work closely with fragrance suppliers and creative partners to develop distinctive fragrances that reflect the brand positioning and meet target-market preferences.
• Establish and continuously improve R&D processes, guidelines, technical standards, and working procedures to enhance efficiency, product quality, and speed to market.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Commercial, Quality, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and other internal functions to ensure smooth execution of product development projects.
• Manage relationships with external partners, including contract manufacturers, suppliers, laboratories, and other technical partners.
• Take ownership of key strategic product development projects, ensuring effective project planning, progress tracking, issue resolution, and delivery within agreed timelines and budgets.
• Monitor industry developments, emerging technologies, ingredients, and product innovation trends to identify opportunities for future product development.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of R&D, formulation experience in cosmetics, skincare, personal care, or fragrance, with strong hands-on formulation knowledge.
• Proven experience in leading R&D teams and managing end-to-end product development projects.
• Strong knowledge of cosmetic regulations and product registration, particularly in China and Japan; international regulatory experience is a plus.
• Strong understanding of formulation, product quality, testing, and contract collaboration, with excellent project management and problem-solving skills.
• Good command of English with strong communication and stakeholder management skills; proactive, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.

Due to the high volume of applications, our team will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Robert Walters Recruitment (Thailand) Limited
Recruitment License No.: น. 1188 / 2551