Head of Product Development

Role Summary

Reporting directly to one of the Co-Founders, the Head of Product Development oversees the entire product lifecycle, from researching and drafting the initial brief through formulation, packaging design, clinical testing, and production; ensuring all initiatives meet ambitious timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Combining scientific rigor, creativity, and operational discipline, this role leads the Product Development team in delivering best-in-class personal care products while upholding the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; scientific or technical degrees strongly preferred
• 8+ years of experience in product development within the personal care or beauty industry, with direct FDA OTC (sunscreen) experience required
• Proven expertise leading end-to-end product development with contract manufacturers, formulators, packaging engineers, and regulatory experts
• Exceptional project management and organizational skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects, stakeholders, and aggressive timelines
• Strong track record of ownership, accountability, and results-driven leadership in high-growth environments
• Experience sourcing and developing custom packaging and managing supplier relationships, both domestic and international
• Highly responsive and proactive in communication with internal teams and external partners
• Detail-oriented, assertive, and comfortable balancing creative vision with operational discipline
• Extensive experience with product testing (analytical, sensory, clinical, and perceptual)
• Experience working successfully in a remote or hybrid environment
• Excited to grow Vacation® into a household name and have fun in the process

Compensation & Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision plans with up to 100% coverage for employees
• The annual compensation range for this role is $175,000 to $205,000, commensurate with experience
• 401k with Company Match
• WFH stipend and an annual learning stipend
• 15 Days PTO
• Complimentary Vacation® Products