Job Description:

Product Development:

• Lead the end-to-end New Product Development (NPD) process, from ideation to launch.
• Identify emerging trends, understand customer needs, and collaborate with internal teams (R&D, marketing, sales, production, procurement) and external partners to develop and test new product concepts and prototypes.

Market Research & Analysis:

• Stay updated on industry trends, active ingredients, and competitor activity to create a strategic product mix and identify white space and innovation opportunities.
• Engage with consumers and industry experts, including stylists, aestheticians, and dermatologists, to identify need gaps and remain ahead of market trends.

Project Management:

• Oversee the entire NPD lifecycle, from concept development to launch, ensuring target costs, timelines, and regulatory requirements are met.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams and address challenges as they arise to maintain project momentum.

Team Leadership:

• Manage and mentor a team of direct reports, fostering a culture of high performance, creativity, and alignment with business objectives.
• Encourage cross-functional collaboration to enhance teamwork and project outcomes.

Supplier Management:

• Identify and maintain strategic partnerships with the right manufacturers and suppliers for ingredients, packaging, and production.
• Collaborate closely with suppliers to ensure quality and innovation in product development.

Product Launch & Commercialization:

• Drive the successful commercialization of the NPD pipeline, analyzing product performance post-launch to support continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to effectively introduce new products across online and offline channels, creating excitement around product launches.

Technical Knowledge:

• Apply an in-depth understanding of formulation science, including emulsions, surfactants, preservatives, and active ingredients specific to skincare and haircare products.
• Strong understanding of the core principles of skincare and haircare
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and standards for cosmetic and personal care products.
• Oversee packaging development and compatibility testing to ensure product integrity and shelf life.

Experience & Education:

• Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Cosmetology, Chemistry, Chemical Engg. or a related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in NPD within the skincare and/or haircare industry.
• Strong creative thinking and problem-solving skills, a keen interest in stayinga head of marketing trends and product innovations.
• Proven ability to multitask, prioritize projects, and meet deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, capable of working effectively across various teams and departments.
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel.
• Prior experience in the skincare or haircare domain is highly desirable.