We are looking for a R&D Director to join our REN Clean Skincare team!
Location of role: 2 days a week office based (London, SE1 0LH) & 3 days home working
Overview:
Since being founded in 2000, REN has pioneered skincare that delivers the best of both worlds: Clean to Skin - Skincare that delivers proven results by only using ingredients that work with your skin and avoiding those that don't; and Clean to Planet - Skincare that also does right by our planet.
The R&D Director is a key role and member of the leadership team reporting into the CEO/CMO of REN. This function oversees all R&D activities which include Product Development, Formulation, Regulatory/Safety, Clinical/Claims testing and Package innovation. The function will achieve this primarily via external 3 party partners (suppliers and contract manufacturers) and liaising with internal Unilever R&D capability in science & technology, packaging engineering, safety and regulatory support. You will direct and prioritize all activities of product development and execution of innovation programs. You will provide the critical interface between R&D, Brand and Marketing Team, Education, Retail, Quality and Supply chain functions.
Responsibilities & Duties:
- Responsible for setting up, implementing, and executing new product development strategies by providing scientific leadership and technical oversight
- Leading the team to drive projects from concept to product launch, providing clear direction and mentorship to the R&D team and working in collaboration with the Marketing and Innovation Director and Supply Chain Director.
- Responsible for all existing product development including, 'clean' formula and pack upgrades
- Leading regulatory compliance across all new market entered
- Liaise with Unilever safety, claims and legal teams to ensure compliance with global regulatory and safety standards. Initiate reformulation programs as necessary.
- Leverage external partners technology or Unilever science and technology to adapt them consistent with the brand purpose and consumer needs.
- Co-create an innovation calendar with Marketing and innovation team that is disruptive and ahead of market trends and be vigilant in identifying new trends, emerging concerns, new science championing new science and technology opportunities to the leadership team
- Develop breakthrough claims with demos and visuals for new launches
- Lead best in class practices for securing relevant certifications and first-to-market initiatives under the bracket of 'clean' and 'sensitivity'.
- Lead from a technical POV our position on Clean to Skin and Clean to planet [formula and packaging] ensuring we continually adapt as scientific developments unfold.
- Lead a clear 'clean ingredient' library ensuring all documentation is accessible and searchable
- With internal and external Package resource support pack development for innovation
- Work with operations and quality teams deliver seamless product launches
- Work with the education and marketing teams to ensure technical, regulatory and packaging content is accurately reflected into training and consumer facing toolkits.
- With internal and external Packaging capabilities, develop sustainability initiatives that meet market commitments.
- Responsible for the R&D and Innovation budget.
- Build a strong, collaborative relationships among internal and external partners.
- Work with Marketing/Finance to ensure adequate R&D resource is set aside for agreed launch calendar.
- As a key member of REN leadership team, you will provide the voice of R&D and valuable input to yearly targets, growth, promoting positive company culture and establishing new launch initiatives.
- Participate and contribute in Unilever R&D forums in sharing best practices, innovation and technology trends.
- Present department innovations at retail channel meetings, National and International sales team meetings, Education/PR events and at Unilever leadership meetings.
- Responsible for building, strengthening, and maintaining an external network with 3rd party manufacturers and suppliers for potential collaboration opportunities.
- As the Brand grows, recruit, manage, motivate, and develop R&D staff plus actively engage in diversity and talent development.
- Develop appropriate processes to ensure clear tracking of risks, issues, opportunities and status of key innovations and be able to communicate these to a wide range of stakeholders.
- Delivering excellent, flawless execution in full on time to market.
What we are looking for:
- Experience in leading cosmetic and/or Skin Care R&D and/or Product Development.
- Proven track record of successfully leading a R&D and/or Product Development group, with demonstrated examples of new product launches to the market by going through the whole product development cycle.
- Outstanding motivational and presentation skills.
- Strong analytical problem-solving skills are required.
- Good written and verbal communication skills are required to translate science insights into meaningful consumer claims.
- Interpersonal skills with the ability to adapt effectively to rapidly changing business environment.
- An appreciation of the key considerations associated with developing sustainable products and clean beauty.
What we offer:
- Flexible working culture to fit around your lifestyle.
- Generous staff discount across our brands!
- 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays.
- Summer Fridays – Early finish!
- Competitive salary & discretionary annual bonus.
- Vitality Private Healthcare Insurance.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
As an equal opportunities' employer, Unilever Prestige Hub Brands: REN/Murad/Kate Somerville/Living Proof/Tatcha is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees regardless of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We aspire to have a diverse workforce because, in our view, diversity enables better business outcomes. We also believe that a more inclusive workplace, where people of different backgrounds work together, ensures better outcomes for all staff. From application to interview, we place inclusion at the heart of all we do. In particular, we strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join Unilever Prestige Hub Brands/REN/Murad/Kate Somerville/Living Proof.