Head of Cosmetics: R&D and NPD

About the role:

Were looking for a strategic, detail-oriented professional to lead our clean beauty manufacturing and compliance ecosystem. This role oversees the entire product lifecyclefrom concept development and formulation trials to production planning, lab setup, vendor management, and global regulatory readiness.

Its ideal for someone who brings deep expertise in personal care operations and compliance, and is excited to scale systems that are efficient, ethical, and aligned with clean, sustainable beauty standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Innovation & Trend Forecasting

• Lead product pipeline planning informed by global beauty and wellness trends.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to translate insights into future-ready product concepts.

Formulation & R&D Oversight

• Oversee in-house and third-party formulation development.
• Ensure product testing meets all quality benchmarksstability, SPF, microbial, and efficacy.

Lab Setup & Process Optimization

• Scale lab operations and source appropriate equipment.
• Create and enforce SOPs, maintain hygiene standards, and implement efficiency improvements.

Production Planning & Demand Forecasting

• Convert sales projections into actionable production schedules.
• Optimize workflows, team structure, and resource planning for scaling.

Vendor Management

• Source ingredients, actives, and sustainable packaging.
• Build strong vendor relationships and manage procurement timelines and pricing.

Regulatory Compliance

• Handle certifications and registrations: COSMOS, ECOCERT, AYUSH, CDSCO, EU CPNP, FDA, and more.
• Monitor evolving global regulatory landscapes and ensure brand readiness.

Export Readiness

• Set up documentation and compliance frameworks for international markets.
• Maintain MSDS, COAs, Free Sale Certificates, and other export-related documentation.

Packaging & Labeling

• Ensure regulatory and aesthetic compliance in all labelingINCI names, batch codes, expiry, claims, and licenses.
• Centralize approvals and coordinate with design and compliance teams.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor production, R&D, QC, and compliance teams.
• Foster a high-performance, documentation-driven, and accountable work culture.

Cost Optimization & Quality Control

• Improve cost of goods while maintaining product integrity.
• Oversee internal QC processes and coordinate with third-party labs for testing and certifications.

Required Qualifications:

• 8+ years in cosmetic, skincare, or wellness product operations.
• Strong background in GMP, global regulatory frameworks, formulation, and scale-up processes.
• Proven experience in lab and equipment setup, SOP creation, and production efficiency.
• Excellent documentation, organization, and cross-functional leadership skills.

Preferred Traits:

• Passion for clean beauty, sustainability, and Ayurvedic wellness.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving and execution ability.
• Experience in boutique, D2C, or small-batch manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on, proactive, and structured in approach.