Overview
Head of Research & Development – Consumer Products Jobs in City of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa at People Advance
Title: Head of Research & Development – Consumer Products
Company: People Advance
Location: City of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
A rare opportunity exists for an experienced scientific and innovation leader to join a highly respected South African, science-led consumer products business with a strong international footprint.
This senior leadership role will suit a commercially minded R&D professional who combines strong scientific credibility with hands-on product development expertise and a passion for innovation, formulation excellence and scientifically driven product development.
Reporting directly to the CEO, the successful candidate will lead the company’s R&D and innovation strategy, overseeing the full product development lifecycle from concept through to commercialisation, while driving scientific excellence, regulatory compliance and innovation across the product portfolio.
We are specifically interested in engaging with candidates who have experience within:
• Scientific consumer products
• Personal care and beauty
• Cosmetics and cosmeceuticals
• Pharmaceutical or consumer healthcare product development
• Product formulation and innovation environments
Key areas of expertise sought include:
• Product formulation and active ingredients
• New Product Development (NPD)
• Clinical testing and scientifically substantiated products
• Regulatory and compliance exposure
• Scientific and technical team leadership
• Packaging and ingredient innovation
• Commercialisation and manufacturing transfer
Minimum requirements:
• MSc or PhD in Chemistry or related scientific field preferred
• Minimum 10 years’ experience within a product development / R&D environment
• Proven leadership experience within scientific or technical teams
This is an exceptional opportunity to join an entrepreneurial, innovation-driven business recognised for its scientific credibility, product quality and long-term brand reputation both locally and internationally.
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.