Director, Product Development (Hybrid Role - New York)

Olaplex • New York, NY

4d • $160,000 - $180,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Director, Product Development, is responsible for guiding a product from concept to launch, overseeing the process by working with cross-functional teams, and ensuring deadlines are met. This role requires a blend of leadership, project management, and a deep understanding of market trends, consumer needs, and the technical aspects of beauty product creation and manufacturing.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Business, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in product development within haircare categories, with a proven track record of launching successful products
• Understanding of haircare formulations, ingredients, and manufacturing processes
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage complex projects and timelines
• Problem-solving abilities, with a focus on finding creative solutions to product development challenges
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and maintain a proactive, solution-oriented approach
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed

Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire product development process from concept to launch, working directly with the internal R&D, Regulatory, Packaging and Marketing partners. Partner with key stakeholders to align on product goals and address challenges.
• Collaborate with chemists to translate marketing briefs into tangible products, considering factors such as formula, color, texture, and packaging functionality
• Communicate formula/project status updates in weekly product development, cross-functional, regulatory, and contract manufacturer meetings
• Oversee formula submissions, track evaluations, and relay critical feedback between internal teams and external partners
• Conduct analysis on product launches, ingredient innovations, and industry trends to gather insights and data that support the development of product concepts
• Research and identify emerging trends, ingredients, and technologies to drive innovation and inform product development
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources, often utilizing tools such as ASANA and Google Workplace
• Manage all product testing phases, from safety to efficacy, ensuring regulatory compliance and claims substantiation
• Manage artwork assets and review artwork for primary and secondary packaging
• Ensure that all product documentation, including technical specifications and testing results, is accurate and up to date
• Identify and solve product development challenges, focusing on creative and practical solutions

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Work/Life Balance: Flexible paid time off, 11 paid holidays, and flexible work schedules
• Wellness: Company Contribution to Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Employees and their Families, Company Paid Employee Life Insurance, Optional additional Life Insurance, and Short and Long-Term Disability Coverage Options
• Parental Leave: Up to 18 weeks for birthing-parents and up to 10 weeks for non-birthing new parents
• Financial Well-being: Roth and 401k plans: 100% match up to the first 4% and is immediately vested
• Professional Development Reimbursement Program: Career development is as important to us as we know it is to you!
• Products: Twenty (20) free products per year, plus a friends and family discount

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees