Head of Research & Development (R&D)

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Our client, a leading South African manufacturer of high-performance, science-based skincare products, is seeking a visionary and results-driven Head of Research & Development (R&D).

This is a senior executive appointment responsible for defining and executing the company’s innovation pipeline, ensuring scientific excellence, product efficacy, and full regulatory compliance across all new and existing products. The successful incumbent will report directly to the CEO and serve as a key member of the Executive Committee (EXCO), driving strategic and scientific leadership across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a key participant in developing overall company strategy, ensuring that the R&D roadmap directly supports business growth and financial objectives.
• Define and execute the company’s R&D and innovation strategy, aligning scientific development with commercial and sustainability goals.
• Direct the research and integration of new raw materials, advanced technologies, and delivery systems to maximise the efficacy and skin penetration of active ingredients.
• Lead research and selection of packaging materials that ensure ingredient stability and support the company’s sustainability strategy.
• Develop and implement scientifically validated testing protocols to substantiate all product claims with credible, verifiable data.
• Maintain an active awareness of global cosmetic regulatory frameworks (EU, FDA, ISO 22716, GMP) and ensure all products comply with local and international standards.
• Oversee the timely and accurate execution of regulatory updates and formulation changes.
• Manage the R&D project portfolio, ensuring all new product development (NPD) initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and meet business objectives.
• Provide effective leadership, mentorship, and professional development to the R&D team, fostering a high-performing and collaborative environment.
• Prepare, manage, and monitor the annual departmental budget, providing comprehensive financial and progress reports to the CEO.
• Build strong cross-functional relationships with Marketing, Operations, and Quality teams to ensure cohesive delivery of R&D objectives.
• Champion a culture of scientific curiosity, innovation, and continuous improvement across the organisation.

Qualifications, Experience & Competencies

• Master of Science (MSc) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field (PhD highly beneficial).
• Minimum of 10 years’ progressive experience in a product development environment within the skincare or cosmetics industry (FMCG and pharmaceutical-only backgrounds will not be considered).
• Deep knowledge of New Product Development (NPD), including skincare formulations, dermatological principles, clinical testing, global cosmetic regulations, packaging fundamentals, and sustainable practices.
• Proven hands-on experience in formulating professional skincare with high concentrations of clinically proven actives.
• Demonstrated success in leading and mentoring scientific teams, with a focus on performance, innovation, and professional development.
• Strong commercial and project management acumen, with the ability to balance scientific integrity and business priorities.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and decision-making skills, with the ability to influence at executive level.

Personal Attributes

• Visionary leader passionate about advancing skincare science and innovation.
• Highly analytical, detail-oriented, and quality-driven.
• Confident communicator capable of engaging across all organisational levels.
• Strategic thinker with strong leadership presence and an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Collaborative and empowering leadership style with a focus on developing scientific talent.

Benefits

• Medical Aid Contribution.
• Pension Fund Contribution.
• Monthly Product Allowance.
• Profit Share Scheme.
• 21 Annual Leave Days.