Research and Development Manager

Job Title: Research & Development Manager

Department: Research & Development Department

Work Set Up: Hybrid

Reports To: Chief Scientific Officer

Job Summary

The Research & Development Manager leads the innovation and product development function for the cosmetics division. This role is responsible for overseeing the full product lifecycle—from conceptualization and formulation to stability testing and commercial launch—ensuring all products meet regulatory standards, quality benchmarks, and market trends. The R&D Manager collaborates closely with Marketing through Product Development Manager, Quality Control/Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Production, and Supply Chain teams to bring safe, effective, and competitive cosmetic products to market.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Product Development & Formulation

• Lead the end-to-end development of new cosmetic products including skincare, haircare, and color cosmetics, from concept brief to commercial launch.
• Design, test, and optimize formulations using cosmetic-grade raw materials, ensuring efficacy, safety, and sensory performance align with brand standards.
• Conduct and oversee prototype evaluation, consumer testing, and iterative refinement to achieve desired product performance.
  
  
  

• Lead and mentor a team of cosmetic chemists, formulators, and laboratory technicians, fostering a culture of innovation, precision, and continuous learning.
• Set clear performance objectives, conduct regular performance reviews, and identify professional development opportunities for R&D team members.
• Coordinate cross-functional collaboration with Marketing, Quality Assurance, Regulatory Affairs, Procurement, and Production teams to align product development goals.
  
  
  

• Ensure all cosmetic formulations comply with applicable local and international regulations including FDA (Philippines), ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, and ISO standards.
• Oversee stability testing, safety assessments, and claims substantiation documentation for all new and reformulated products.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of cosmetic ingredient regulations, banned substances, and emerging safety guidelines to ensure continuous compliance.
  
  
  

• Monitor industry trends, competitive landscape, and emerging technologies in cosmetic science to identify innovation opportunities and maintain market competitiveness.
• Manage the R&D budget, laboratory equipment, and raw material inventory; evaluate and onboard new suppliers and raw material partners.
  
  
  

• Bachelor’s degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• A Master’s Degree is an advantage
  
  
  

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in cosmetic product development and formulation, with at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory capacity.
• Experience in a cosmetic manufacturing or consumer goods company is required.
  
  
  

• Proficiency in cosmetic formulation across multiple product categories (skincare, haircare, color cosmetics, personal care); knowledge of INCI nomenclature and ingredient functionality.
• Familiarity with stability testing protocols, challenge testing, safety assessment, and regulatory submission processes for the Philippine market and ASEAN region.
  
  
  

• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate, develop, and retain high-performing technical staff.
• Excellent communication, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills; ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
  
  
  

• The R&D Manager role offers a clear advancement pathway to Director of R&D or Chief Innovation Officer. The incumbent will have opportunities to lead cross-departmental innovation projects, represent the company in industry conferences and regulatory forums, access sponsored continuing education in cosmetic science and formulation, and engage in international product development collaborations.
  
  
  

• This is a primarily on-site role based at the company’s R&D laboratory in Eastwood, Quezon City, with hybrid flexibility subject to business needs. Occasional travel to manufacturing facilities, supplier sites, and industry events may be required.
• The role involves regular laboratory work including exposure to cosmetic raw materials and chemicals; adherence to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and laboratory safety protocols is mandatory at all times.