Location: Manchester

Type: Permanent

Industry: Cosmetics

Job Ref: TGN5036

The Company:

An excellent opportunity for a Senior Product Developer to join a fast growing, successful, FMCG company who supply both private label and branded products to highly successful leading retailers worldwide.

As a Senior NPD Specialist, you will lead the development and launch of new products, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and ensure that their products meet the highest quality standards.

The Role:

• Working close with the Creative Director to develop NPD & expand best sellers
• Researching trends (WGSN) and utilising information from Sales, Brand and Marketing in order to develop customer targeted, commercially viable product, whilst ensuring that the brand ethos is kept the at the heart of each development.
• Briefing new cosmetic formulation developments into lab teams. Leading tech reviews between all key team members to Identify any issues or concerns.
• Reviewing and amending formulation samples to ensure they meet the brief.
• Working with regulations team to ensure that stability and compatibility testing is passed, troubleshooting any issues that  may arise, as well as assisting in arranging user trials in order to substantiate marketing claims.

• Briefing in all initial product CADs to design/graphics team (Opal software).
• Development of component and packaging artworks from sampling to production.
• Organising NPD retail packs to distribute to buyers and support the sales team.
• Sourcing components, packaging & accessories from China & UK suppliers.
• Collaborating with UK manufacturing & production teams to brief NPD projects, to understand manufacturing capabilities and develop new ways of working as new products and manufacturing capabilities are introduced to the company structure, to support the successful & innovative delivery of new product lines.
• Managing the critical path and coordinating across lab, technical, graphic, logistic and production teams to ensure project  deadlines are met.

• Aligning with Brand Manager on NPD launch dates. Leading investigations with suppliers on solutions
• to bring product back on track. Communicating any updates regarding any claims/cost/lead time/MOQ changes to relevant teams.
• Building cost analysis to ensure D2C and B2B target margins are maintained.
• Creating pricing ladders and reviewing cost of goods with Head of Commercial and Creative Director to set RRPs.
• Collaborating with Brand Manager and social & creative team to organise product and model shoots as well as developing and expediting PR and influencer creative mailers for NPD launches
• Lead the entire product development process, from concept to launch. Work with internal teams and external partners to develop innovative and marketable products.
• Conduct market research to identify trends, customer needs, and competitor products. Use this information to inform product development decisions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, design, production, and quality assurance, to ensure successful product launches.
• Ensure all products meet regulatory requirements and safety standards. Stay up-to-date with relevant regulations and industry best practices.
• Oversee project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure products are developed and launched on time and within budget.
• Work with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients and materials. Build strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure smooth production processes.
• Coordinate product testing and quality assurance processes to ensure products meet company standards and customer expectations.
• Identify opportunities for innovation in product design, packaging, and formulation. Keep abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends.
• Provide regular updates on product development progress to senior management and stakeholders.

 Skills Required:

• 5+ years of experience in new product development in the cosmetics or beauty industry.
• Deep understanding of the cosmetics industry, a passion for product innovation, and a proven track record in new product development.
• Strong knowledge of cosmetics industry trends, technologies, and regulatory requirements.
• Proven track record of successfully launching new products.
• Excellent project management skills with experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality.