Laboratory, Research and Development Manager

Role Overview

We are looking for a skilled Laboratory, Research and Development Manager to oversee and guide research activities and technical laboratory operations with a primary emphasis on fragrance formulation innovation, product development, and enhancement of existing products. The role ensures laboratory testing and trials meet high standards of quality, reliability, and compliance with both local and global market regulations, strengthening the company's market position.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the laboratory team by delegating tasks, tracking progress on yearly departmental goals, and routinely assessing team output.
• Guarantee a secure and appropriate working environment in both R&D and Quality Control labs.
• Evaluate, create, and endorse analytical testing procedures for raw materials and finished goods.
• Approve product and raw material specifications, acceptance/rejection thresholds, certificates of analysis, and lab reports.
• Develop and refine product formulations and production protocols, including staff training and ongoing improvements based on technical knowledge.
• Interpret stability testing outcomes to predict potential formulation flaws and define shelf life.
• Troubleshoot product technical challenges and establish root cause remedies.
• Ensure adherence of products to Gulf and European regulations, IFRA guidelines, and export market standards.
• Stay current with evolving laws and regulations affecting fragrances and cosmetics domestically and internationally.
• Adjust products to conform with updated regulatory and standard requirements.
• Participate in reviewing and approving packaging information to comply with applicable laws in all relevant markets.
• Study raw material properties, identify alternative options with better quality and cost efficiency, and liaise with suppliers to set specifications and oversee material changes.
• Validate procurement committee-recommended raw materials against required specifications.
• Manage provision of technical certificates for exports and resolve specification or documentation concerns.
• Oversee comprehensive technical file maintenance including formulation details, supplier data, and manufacturing instructions for each product.
• Ensure all lab activities adhere to quality management systems and standards such as ISO 17025, ISO 9001, ISO 22716, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and Saudi and UAE Quality Marks.
• Carry out other relevant duties as assigned by direct supervisors.

Candidate Requirements

• Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or an equivalent field.
• Have 7 to 10 years of solid experience working in R&D within the fragrance or a related industry.
• Demonstrated capability in managing laboratory operations, experiments, and testing activities.
• Strong familiarity with safety protocols and regulatory requirements pertinent to fragrance products.
• Experience with fragrance or cosmetic product formulation and manufacturing methodology.
• Expertise in analytical test methods, product specs, stability analyses, and raw material assessments.
• Knowledge of international fragrance and cosmetic regulations, including IFRA and export compliance.
• Experience in quality management systems aligned with ISO standards.