Formulation Development Team Leader

An opportunity has arisen to join our Pharmaceutical Development Department as a Formulation Development Team Leader responsible for developing new cosmetic/ cosmeceuticals and a range of topical pharmaceutical medicines and medical devices and managing a small team of Formulation Chemists within a laboratory setting.

This role will be varied requiring cross functional collaboration with several departments to drive projects from concept to launch while ensuring the company’s quality, safety, and efficacy standards are met.

The ideal candidate will have an expert knowledge in ‘hands-on’ formulation design and development of topical formulations and lead the team to deliver projects that align with business objectives.

This role will include:

• Design, plan and development of robust formulations from concept to commercial launch based on the project brief while considering required claims, novel technologies, excipient/packaging compatibility, product performance, physical characteristics, physicochemical stability, sustainability, risks and costs.
• Ability to manage multiple projects at a time and demonstrate methodical experimental design including suitable test methods, meticulous execution, and precise data analysis.
• Ability to document all research and development activities to a high standard and in a timely manner to ensure project milestones are met.
• Manage and mentor a small team of Formulations Chemists ensuring appropriate training is provided, training courses are identified and training records are maintained.
• Lead and support formulation development activities inclusive of pre-clinical and clinical stage products and scale-up of potential formulations to pilot scale (100 kg) as required.
• Support technology transfer of development products into commercial manufacture by attending the manufacturing site as required.
• Stay informed about industry advancements and emerging technologies, identifying potential opportunities to drive process improvements and foster innovation.
• Maintain excellent communication with both the line manager and other team members and to interact and collaborate with cross functional teams to manage, lead and support to achieve project goals in the development of products.
• Responsible for staying updated with current Good Practice (cGxP) and Health & Safety (H&S) regulations pertinent to the role.

Other skills and experience required:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in cosmetic or pharmaceutical sciences.
• Experience in formulation development of skincare or personal care, topical/ transdermal formulations, preferably in cosmetics or pharmaceutical industries.
• Strong knowledge of cosmetic/pharmaceutical ingredients and their interactions.
• Familiarity with cosmetic, medicinal, or medical device regulations.
• Have a ‘can do’ attitude with the ability to work independently and contribute effectively to a team setting.
• Passion for continuous learning and a growth mindset.
• Demonstrate strong critical thinking skills and be adaptable to change.
• Excellent report writing skills.