New Product Development Manager

Job Overview: A leading cosmetics manufacturer is seeking a dynamic and results-driven NEW Product Development Manager to lead the end-to-end development of innovative, personal care and beauty products that resonate with African consumers. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product formulation, market trends, and project management, and will work cross-functionally with R&D, Marketing, Production, and Quality Assurance teams.

Position reports to the Managing Director and Head of Marketing.

Responsibilities:

Product Innovation & Strategy: • Identify new product opportunities and concepts based on consumer insights, competitor analysis, and market trends • Develop product development roadmaps in line with company objectives and seasonal strategies • Define and refine the segmentation and positioning of each product to ensure clear differentiation across price segments, target demographics, and usage occasions

Project Management: • Manage the full product development lifecycle: concept, formulation, packaging, testing, regulatory compliance, and go-to-market • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification

Formulation & Testing: • Collaborate with internal R&D to develop formulations tailored to the target market's skin and hair types using both natural and functional ingredients • Ensure stability, safety, and performance testing are completed according to regulatory requirements

Packaging Development: • Source and approve packaging that is cost-effective, functional, and aligned with brand identity • Oversee compatibility testing between formulations and packaging materials

Regulatory & Compliance: • Ensure all products comply with FDA Ghana and regional regulatory standards (GSA)

Costing & Profitability: • Collaborate with finance, procurement and management to optimize cost of goods and ensure product profitability

Launch Support: • Work with Marketing and Sales to prepare product launch materials and staff training documentation

Requirements: • Bachelor's degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Pharmacy, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus • 5+ years of experience in NEW product development within cosmetics, personal care, or FMCG • Strong understanding of raw materials, formulations, and African consumer needs • Proven project management skills with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines • Strong interpersonal and cross-functional communication skills • Detail-oriented, proactive, and passionate about innovation

Desired Skills: • New Product Development • Cosmetic Science • Innovation • Costings • Raw Materials • Formulations • African market • Skincare • Homecare • Haircare • Fragrance • NPD

Desired Work Experience: • 5 to 10 years [other] Personal Appearance • 2 to 5 years Product Management

Desired Qualification Level: • Degree