PRODUCT DEVELOPER - INNOVATIONS (ASSISTANT MANAGER)

Position Overview

We are seeking a forward-thinking, results-driven Product Developer (Assistant Manager) to drive the development and execution of our new product initiatives in the beauty & personal care space under the Unilab Consumer Portfolio Strategy & Development group. This role will be responsible for project management of NPD projects, from concept creation to finished goods production, driving cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring projects align with business and portfolio strategy and consumer needs. The ideal candidate will have a passion for project management and the ability to balance creative vision with operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

1. Brand & Product Creation

• Lead the creation and development of new brands, product lines, and extensions that deliver breakthrough value propositions.
• Partner with Regional and Local Marketing, R&D, Regulatory, Supply, and Sales to develop compelling product concepts, positioning, and go-to-market strategies.

2. Project & Process Management

• Manage NPD projects through stage-gate processes and drive accountability across cross-functional teams from relevant markets.
• Monitor project risks, remove roadblocks, and escalate issues to keep programs on track.

3. Cross Functional Collaboration

• Work harmoniously w/ others to build a culture that encourages experimentation and problem-solving.
• Foster strong cross-functional partnerships with local markets & enabler groups and champion the voice of the consumer throughout the organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Product Development, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in brand management, product innovation, or category development (personal care or FMCG experience strongly preferred).
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and successfully launch products in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional project management skills with expertise in stage-gate or agile development processes.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate market data, identify opportunities, and prioritize initiatives.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
• Creative problem solver with a passion for consumer insights and product development.