About the position
Job Overview:
A leading cosmetics manufacturer is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Product Development Manager to lead the end-to-end development of innovative, personal care and beauty products that resonate with African consumers. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product formulation, market trends, and project management, and will work cross-functionally with R&D, Marketing, Production, and Quality Assurance teams.
Position reports to the Managing Director and Head of Marketing.
Responsibilities:
Product Innovation & Strategy:
- Identify new product opportunities and concepts based on consumer insights, competitor analysis, and market trends
- Develop product development roadmaps in line with company objectives and seasonal strategies
- Define and refine the segmentation and positioning of each product to ensure clear differentiation across price segments, target demographics, and usage occasions
Project Management:
- Manage the full product development lifecycle: concept, formulation, packaging, testing, regulatory compliance, and go-to-market
- Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification
Formulation & Testing:
- Collaborate with internal R&D to develop formulations tailored to the target market's skin and hair types using both natural and functional ingredients
- Ensure stability, safety, and performance testing are completed according to regulatory requirements
Packaging Development:
- Source and approve packaging that is cost-effective, functional, and aligned with brand identity
- Oversee compatibility testing between formulations and packaging materials
Regulatory & Compliance:
- Ensure all products comply with FDA Ghana and regional regulatory standards (GSA)
Costing & Profitability
- Collaborate with finance, procurement and management to optimize cost of goods and ensure product profitability
Launch Support:
- Work with Marketing and Sales to prepare product launch materials and staff training documentation
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Pharmacy, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus
- 5+ years of experience in product development within cosmetics, personal care, or FMCG
- Strong understanding of raw materials, formulations, and African consumer needs
- Proven project management skills with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines
- Strong interpersonal and cross-functional communication skills
- Detail-oriented, proactive, and passionate about innovation
Desired Skills:
- Product development
- Cosmetics
- FMCG
- Personal care
- Raw materials
- Cosmetic Science
- Product formulation
Desired Qualification Level:
