Head of Research & Development (Skincare & Cosmetics)

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Our client, a prominent South African manufacturer of high-performance skincare products, is seeking an accomplished Head of Research & Development (R&D) to lead the company’s scientific and innovation functions.

This executive role reports directly to the CEO and forms part of the Executive Committee (EXCO). The successful candidate will be responsible for defining and executing the company’s innovation pipeline, ensuring scientific excellence, product efficacy, and regulatory compliance across all new and existing products.

Key Performance Areas

• Serve as a key participant in determining overall company strategy, ensuring the R&D roadmap is directly aligned with and contributes significantly to the organisation’s growth and financial objectives.
• Drive the innovation pipeline in accordance with company strategy, advancing new ideas through to commercial readiness.
• Direct the research and integration of new raw materials, products, packaging, advanced technologies, and delivery systems to maximise the efficacy and skin penetration of active ingredients.
• Lead the research and selection of raw and packaging materials that ensure ingredient stability and support the company’s sustainability and environmental strategy.
• Develop and implement scientifically validated testing protocols to substantiate product performance and claims with credible, measurable data.
• Maintain an active awareness of global cosmetic regulatory changes and ensure full compliance of all products with relevant local and international regulations.
• Ensure the timely and accurate execution of any required regulatory changes or formulation updates.
• Oversee and manage the entire R&D project portfolio, ensuring all New Product Development (NPD) projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with strategic objectives.
• Provide effective leadership, mentorship, and professional development to the R&D team, fostering a collaborative, high-performance environment.
• Prepare, manage, and monitor the annual departmental budget, providing monthly financial and progress reports to the CEO.
• Confidently present to and engage with internal and external stakeholders, articulating technical and scientific concepts in a clear and accessible manner.

Qualifications, Experience & Competencies

• Master of Science (MSc), preferably PhD, in Chemistry or a related scientific field (or equivalent qualification).
• Minimum of 10 years’ progressive experience in a product development and commercialisation environment, with a proven track record of scientific leadership.
• Deep understanding of New Product Development (NPD) processes, including skincare formulations, ingredients, dermatological principles, clinical testing, global cosmetic regulations, packaging design, and sustainable practices.
• Proven, hands-on formulation experience in professional skincare products using high concentrations of clinically proven active ingredients.
• Demonstrated success in project management and in leading, mentoring, and managing scientific teams within an R&D environment.
• Ability to confidently present to large audiences and convey complex technical or scientific concepts clearly.
• Strong analytical, strategic, and communication skills with the ability to influence at executive level.

Benefits

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