Head - Research & Development

About the Role

Head of Research & Development (R&D)

Key Responsibilities

1. Product Innovation & Development

• Lead end-to-end product development from concept to commercialization for skincare, haircare, hygiene, and cosmetic categories.
  
• Drive innovation in formulations aligned with market trends, sustainability goals, and brand positioning.
  
• Oversee development of prototypes, stability studies, efficacy testing, and claims substantiation.
  

2. Technical Leadership & Team Management

• Manage and mentor a cross-functional team of formulation scientists, chemists, and technical associates.
  
• Collaborate with marketing, manufacturing, quality assurance, and regulatory teams to ensure timely product launches.
  
• Build and foster partnerships with external research institutions, suppliers, and technology collaborators.
  

3. Regulatory & Compliance

• Ensure all products comply with national and international cosmetic regulations (e.g., BIS, CDSCO, FDA, EU).
  
• Review formulations for ingredient safety, labeling, and documentation.
  

4. Strategic Planning

• Define the R&D roadmap in alignment with the companys business strategy.
  
• Identify and integrate emerging technologies and natural actives to strengthen the product portfolio.
  
• Manage R&D budgets, project prioritization, and cost optimization initiatives.
  

5. Continuous Improvement & Quality

• Drive process innovation and efficiency improvements in formulation and testing.
  
• Implement robust data recording, IP management, and knowledge-sharing systems within the R&D function.
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s or Ph.D. in

  Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, or related field

  .
• Minimum

  12–18 years

  of experience in R&D within the

  cosmetics, personal care, or FMCG industry

  .
• Proven track record in developing and launching successful personal care or cosmetic products.
  
• Strong knowledge of formulation chemistry, stability testing, and sensory evaluation.
  
• Familiarity with

  Ayurvedic, herbal, or natural formulations

  will be an added advantage.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  

Key Competencies

• Innovation-driven mindset
  
• Strong technical and analytical acumen
  
• Strategic leadership and project management
  
• Compliance and regulatory understanding
  
• Business orientation with cost-conscious decision-making