Product Development Manager Jobs

Overview:

The PD Manager works within the Product Development team to help drive calendarized and non-calendarized initiatives for Moroccanoil. This person will manage the development of company products, communicate progress, and manage relationships with various vendors. Additionally, they will be responsible for the project execution of products. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, solution-focused, highly detail-oriented, organized, and able to work autonomously. Ease and openness in working closely with co-workers, and a can-do attitude is essential.

Tasks & Responsibilities:

• Interact regularly with R&D, outside vendors, and PD team members.
• Maintain an updated log of all submissions received and their status on all assigned projects.
• Work closely with the PD Packaging team to ensure the formula is compatible with the packaging chosen and adjust specifications when needed.
• Collaborate with PD Director to evaluate new submissions against prototypes or standards for all formula aesthetics. Manage the redirect process with the lab or subcontractor to ensure all formula modifications are conveyed clearly and precisely.
• Follow all steps of the product development process including product brief creation, identifying the appropriate lab partners, cost analysis, claims testing, key ingredients, etc. ensuring timing and COG’s targets are achieved.
• Act as a resource within the PD community for innovation and development.
• Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Education, and Operations teams to ensure deliverables are met
• Attend Industry Forums when available to learn more about research and development in Hair Care segments and other relevant topics.
• Oversee submissions for Lab, Pilot, and Production to ensure proper coding and organization
• Keep abreast of competitive product launches and new technologies.
• Works with the Sr. Director to put together presentations and conduct research on new ingredients, products, etc.
• Update weekly PD status on the assigned projects to ensure all formula development is on track. Consistently maintain an updated program tracker for all assigned projects.
• Collaborate with PD team to evaluate all product submissions on a timely basis. Communicate desired modifications to the lab in a timely manner.
• Help source and identify new concepts, ingredients, and product forms. Obtain research for new product ideas (visual and literal).
• Partner with the Ass. Manager to conduct product testing. Analyze data and give redirects when needed.
• Work closely with the Sr. Director to execute assigned calendarized launches in all stages from concept to on-counter as well as reformulations of existing products.

Characteristics:

• Goal oriented with a positive “can do” attitude
• Highly organized and focused while able to multi-task and adapt to changing priority levels for multiple ongoing projects
• Proficient in Microsoft applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Ability to work collaboratively across functions, to work independently, and to take initiative when appropriate.
• Flexible on work responsibilities and priorities
• Be open to constructive feedback and revisions on work
• Must have a passion for haircare products.
• 3-5 years experience minimum in a product development environment (haircare preferably), with experience working closely with internal or external labs.
• Proficient in obtaining data through Mintel, NPD, etc. 4 times per week.
• Must have a strong team and interpersonal, creative, communication (verbal, written), and analytical skills
• Be adept in time management, execution, follow-up, and attention to detail.