Chef de Projet Innovation

About the Role

The Innovation Project Manager will lead the development and implementation of innovation and lifecycle management (LCM) projects across key OTC brands and categories. This is a high-level project management role requiring a strong technical understanding of OTC product development, regulatory frameworks, and cross-functional coordination between R&D, manufacturing, regulatory, supply chain, quality, and marketing. This role is responsible for driving projects from concept to market launch, ensuring rigorous project design and tracking, regulatory compliance, operational feasibility, and commercial execution.

Key Responsibilities

End-to-End Innovation & LCM Project Leadership

• Lead innovation and lifecycle management projects from concept to launch
• Own the global project roadmap and timeline to ensure cross-functional alignment
• Ensure projects meet technical feasibility, regulatory requirements, and business objectives

Cross-Functional Program Management

• Coordinate cross-functional teams including R&D, Regulatory Affairs, Supply Chain, Quality, Procurement, and Marketing, as well as local markets
• Act as the central point of accountability for project progress and delivery
• Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies

Stage-Gate and Innovation Governance

• Lead the Stage-Gate process and prepare key decision-making milestones
• Ensure high-quality documentation and preparation for governance reviews by leadership
• Track the evolution of the innovation pipeline and ensure transparency on timelines and deliverables

Technical Product Development

• Contribute to defining product design, claims framework, and technical specifications
• Coordinate the development of master texts, product dossiers, and packaging specifications
• Ensure alignment with regulatory frameworks across all markets

Lifecycle Management Strategy

• Identify opportunities for lifecycle management initiatives such as formulation improvements, line extensions, packaging innovations, and regulatory optimizations
• Collaborate with marketing and category teams to build sustainable innovation pipelines

We are looking for a candidate with the following skills and experience:

• Minimum 7 years of experience in innovation, product development, or project management, ideally within the consumer healthcare, OTC pharmaceutical, or health-related FMCG sector
• Proven experience in managing complex, cross-functional innovation projects involving multiple functions (R&D, marketing, quality, supply, regulatory)
• Strong knowledge of OTC product development and associated regulatory requirements
• Proven experience in product lifecycle management (LCM), particularly on established brands
• Ability to operate in international and multi-market environments

Key Skills

• Leadership and project management
• Analytical mindset and results orientation
• Excellent communication and coordination skills
• Ability to navigate complex and matrixed environments
• Innovative spirit and consumer-centric approach

Profile

• Higher education (Master's degree) in science, engineering, pharmacy, or life sciences. Business or marketing exposure is a plus.
• Proficiency in English is essential

About IRETI Life Sciences

IRETI Life Sciences is a company specializing in the recruitment and placement of talent within the healthcare industry. With sharp expertise in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, and healthcare services sectors, IRETI Life Sciences connects companies with the best profiles, from technicians to senior executives. By combining an understanding of scientific challenges with a keen sense of human capital, the company stands out as a trusted partner to support the growth of healthcare players.

About Our Client

Our client is a leading independent European player in the OTC field, specializing in the development, manufacturing, and distribution of a wide range of over-the-counter products, primarily in the antiseptic, cough & cold, digestion, calming & sleep, and beauty supplement segments, among others. Headquartered in Paris, France, the company currently operates in several countries across Europe and Asia. The company's objective is to promote a healthier lifestyle and strives to achieve this through a set of actions aimed at continuously strengthening three pillars: people, operational foundations, and consumer solutions. The company is experiencing healthy growth, with an ambition to double its business in 3 to 5 years. This will be achieved through both organic growth and by entering new categories and markets via strategic mergers and acquisitions. The goal is for the company to become the leading European player in consumer healthcare. The company operates entrepreneurially with strong local responsibility. The aim is to build a strong 'local global' culture with local organizations focused on market conquest, supported by global expert teams.