Head of Research & Development

Recruiter:

SciStaff CC

Job Ref:

SCI000067/SCI

Date posted:

Thursday, April 16, 2026

Location:

Cape Town, South Africa

SUMMARY:

A company in the cosmetic industry is seeking a Head of Research & Development to join their team in Cape Town. The successful incumbent will report directly to the CEO and be responsible for defining and executing the company's innovation pipeline, ensuring scientific excellence and regulatory compliance across all new and existing products. This position is a key member of the Executive Committee (EXCO).

POSITION INFO:

The key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Serve as a key participant in determining overall company strategy, ensuring the R&D roadmap is directly aligned with and contributes significantly to the business's growth and financial objectives.
Direct the research and integration of new raw materials, advanced technologies, and delivery systems to maximize the efficacy and skin penetration of active ingredients.
Lead the research and selection of packaging materials that ensure ingredient stability while strictly adhering to the company's sustainability and environmental strategy.
Develop and implement rigorous, scientifically validated protocols for testing products to ensure all claims are credible and fully substantiated.
Maintain an active awareness of global cosmetic regulatory changes and ensure that all new and existing products are compliant with respective local and international regulations.
Ensure the timely and accurate execution of any required regulatory changes or updates to existing product formulations.
Oversee and manage the entire R&D project portfolio, ensuring all new product development (NPD) projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet strategic goals.
Provide effective management, mentorship, and professional development to the R&D team, conducting performance appraisals and identifying training needs to encourage a high-performing and collaborative environment.
Prepare, manage, and monitor the annual departmental budget, providing comprehensive monthly financial and R&D progress reports to the CEO.

Key Requirements: MSc or PhD in Chemistry or a related scientific field with a minimum of 10 years' experience in a product development environment with a demonstrated track record of leadership. Extensive New Product Development knowledge, including skincare ingredients, formulations, dermatological principles, clinical testing, global cosmetic regulations, fundamentals of packaging, and application of sustainable practices. Proven hands-on experience in formulating professional skincare with high concentrations of actives that have been clinically proven. Demonstrated success in project management and effective leading, mentoring, and managing scientific teams within a R&D environment.

*Only candidates that meet all the requirements should apply

**Only candidates that are shortlisted will be contacted

By sending your application to Scistaff you consent that your information may be kept in accordance with the requirements of the POPI Act.

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