Head of Research & Development

A leading beauty and personal-care company is seeking an accomplished Head of Research & Development to lead and execute its innovation pipeline with scientific excellence and regulatory rigour. The business is open to outstanding R&D leaders from skincare, cosmetics, beauty and closely related scientifically regulated consumer-product categories.Reporting directly to the CEO, you will serve on the Executive Committee and take responsibility for the strategic direction, commercial delivery and day-to-day leadership of the R&D function and team.This is a full-time, office-based position in the Western Cape.Key responsibilities:Drive the innovation pipeline in line with company strategy, turning new product concepts into commercially viable launches.Ensure the R&D roadmap supports business growth, customer needs and financial objectives.Lead the full R&D project portfolio, ensuring New Product Development (NPD) projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the required quality and strategic standards.Direct the research, development and integration of new raw materials, formulations, products, packaging, technologies and delivery systems to enhance product performance, efficacy and consumer experience.Lead the selection of raw materials and packaging that protect product stability, meet quality requirements and support the company’s sustainability and environmental strategy.Develop and implement rigorous, scientifically valid product-testing protocols to ensure claims are credible, substantiated and compliant.Maintain an active understanding of relevant global regulatory developments and ensure new and existing products comply with applicable local and international requirements.Ensure regulatory changes, product updates and formulation amendments are implemented accurately and within required timeframes.Provide strong leadership, mentorship and development to the R&D team, including performance management, succession planning and identification of training needs.Prepare, manage and monitor the annual departmental budget and costs, providing comprehensive monthly financial and R&D progress reports to the CEO.Minimum requirements:MSc in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering, Food Science or a related scientific discipline; a PhD will be advantageous.At least 10 years’ progressive experience in product development, innovation and commercialisation, including a proven record of leading an R&D function or scientific team.Strong knowledge of NPD, formulation development, ingredient and raw-material selection, product stability, testing, claims substantiation, packaging and regulatory compliance.Relevant experience gained within skincare, cosmetics, beauty, personal care, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, food science or another closely related regulated product-development environment.Demonstrated hands-on technical experience in developing high-performance products, ideally including active ingredients, efficacy-driven formulations or comparable science-led product technologies.Proven ability to manage complex project portfolios, budgets, external suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders from concept through to commercial launch.A successful track record of leading, mentoring and developing scientific teams.The ability to communicate complex technical and scientific concepts clearly and credibly to executive, commercial and broader business audiences.Salary and benefits:Provident FundGroup Life insuranceMedical Aid subsidyStaff allocation of company products21 days’ annual leavePerformance bonus and profit share, paid in December following successful completion of the probation periodAbout you:You are a commercially minded scientific leader with a strong R&D and innovation track record. You combine strategic thinking with practical technical depth, can lead a high-performing team and are motivated by developing products that succeed in a competitive, quality-driven and regulated market.If you are ready to lead an ambitious R&D function and shape the next generation of beauty and personal-care products, please submit your application.