Sr. Manager, R&D formulation

The Opportunity

The Manager, R&D Formulation is a key member of the R&D team and is responsible for managing all internal formulation activities, including new formula development, re-formulations, tech transfers and troubleshooting for both OTC drug and cosmetic Skin and Hair Care products. The role includes line management of a team of formulation chemists as well as the day-to-day management of the CW formulation labs. In addition, the role includes acting as the technical interface between CW and Customer on any formulation issues.

Duties And Responsibilities

Acts as CW primary subject area expert on OTC drug and cosmetic formulation.

Responsible for the development and execution of technical formulation strategies based on formulation briefs provided by the Customer.

Manage a portfolio of formulation projects, including both new formulations and re-formulations and provide regular updates to upper management.

Maintain a strong in-lab presence. This role will require bench formulation as needed.

Responsible for directing and managing the activities of a small team of formulation chemists and maintain a safe, productive, and orderly formulation lab.

Lead all testing processes, including PET, HRIPT, safety testing, packaging compatibility, and miscellaneous product testing.

Develop and implement lab process to help streamline workload

Maintain a standard library for all approved formulas.

Organize and maintain all electronic and hard copy R&D files.

Ensure compliance with industry regulations, including FDA, and control critical documents.

Advise Product Development team on any ongoing technical formulation issues and, whenever necessary, act as technical interface between CW and Customer on formulation matters.

Document and route SOPs, project briefs, and timelines.

Ensure effective technology scale up of internally developed formulations.

Ensure effective tech transfer/ scale ups and commercialization

Stay abreast of technical and ingredient trends in cosmetic formulation to ensure CW formulations remain at the cutting edge of efficacy, performance, and aesthetics.

Work directly with Regulatory, ESH, and Procurement Teams to ensure CW formulations meet regulatory requirements and reasonable standards for ingredient sustainability and environmental & social impact.

Track and manage R&D/PD budget and invoicing.

 Provide training on SOPs and ensure the documentation integrity of critical documents.

Collaborate with PD, Formulator, sales teams for seamless project execution.

Skills, Experience And Education Required

 Bachelors’ Degree or advanced degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or related field Minimum 5+ years (10 preferred) in skincare or cosmetic industry R&D and testing. Innovation experience in skincare and global compliance experience preferred.

 Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards.

 Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

 Strategic thinker who also maintains strong attention to detail and delivers with excellence.

 Strong analytical, strategic, and critical thinking skills. Experience data analysis.

 Highly collaborative with exceptional cross functional team-building skills with demonstrated success developing, managing, and leading highly effective teams in agile environments.

 High sense of urgency with ability to execute under accelerated time frames and quickly adapt to change in priorities.

 Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to build successful relationships with internal and external teams.

 Self-motivated and flexible; ability to adapt quickly to change.

 Ability to both leads strategically as well as willing to jump into the details to get work done quickly and effectively

 Travel up to 10% as required.

The expected base salary range for this position is $130,000 to $150,000. The exact base salary is determined by various factors including experience, skills, education, geographic location, and budget.

This position is also eligible for participation in the company discretionary bonus plan, based on personal performance and company results.

This is a onsite position and requires being in our El Segundo office 5 days/week

Reports to: EVP of R&D

No Staffing Agencies please.