Senior Manager - Product Development

About the role

The Senior Manager of Product Development will lead end-to-end development of cosmetic products from concept through commercialization, and manage clinical and consumer testing programs to substantiate product claims. This role requires cross-functional collaboration with R&D, regulatory, marketing, operations, and external testing partners to ensure timely and compliant delivery of high-performance, safe, and innovative products.

Responsibilities

• Formulation
• Design product technical packages by selecting active ingredients and supporting components that achieve intended product performance and claims.
• Define formulation strategies that clearly outline how each product will deliver its intended results.
• Perform and support laboratory bench work as needed to assist formulation chemists during new product development and reformulation projects.
• Develop product positioning by identifying key benefits, claims, and ingredient combinations that differentiate the product from competitors.
• Manage the prototype review process by collecting, organizing, and responding to feedback from internal teams (such as Marketing and R&D) and external partners until the formula is approved.
• Maintain ongoing relationships with raw material suppliers to stay informed about new ingredients, technologies, and supply considerations.
• Manage internal ingredient databases to ensure all material information is accurate and up to date
• Develop and maintain a formulation library based on competitive product analysis and internal innovation
• Review and approve formulas and Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Manage product development work conducted by external laboratories, including defining project scope, reviewing deliverables, and ensuring timelines are met.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in chemistry, biology, or related science
• 5+ years of experience in product development R&D formulation, and claims development of personal care products
• Ability to clearly communicate among cross-functional teams
• Technical knowledge of formulation, ingredients, and cosmetic industry standards

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of regulatory guidelines, GMP, claims substantiation, and cosmetic testing protocols
• Project management skills for the development process
• Consumer insights or trend analysis experience
• Experience in global product launch

What We Offer

• A target annual salary range of $115,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, plus annual bonus
• 401(K) with an Employer Match, plus a monthly home internet stipend
• Hybrid work environment – join our El Segado office on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Unlimited Paid Time Off, plus 17 holidays off per year
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, & Vision insurance options, FSA, HSA, and Life & Accident Insurance
• Wellness & Support Resources including Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Legal Shield & ID Shield, Travel Assistance, Estate Guidance, Gym and Meditation programs, and more
• Pet Insurance
• Professional Development Resources
• Access to Murad products at-cost & employee gifts, as well as the larger Unilever Prestige Discount Marketplace (including Hourglass, Living Proof, Dermalogica, K18, Paula's Choice, & Tatcha)