Manager, Formulated Product R&D

Stryker•Cary, IL

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking for a hands-on, people-first R&D leader with deep formulation expertise and a strong track record developing and sustaining formulated products. You’ll lead a team through formulation strategy, testing, scale-up support, and life-cycle management across drug, cosmetic, and biocide categories. Success in this role requires strong technical judgment, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to influence cross-functional partners while building a high-performing, inclusive team.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Formulation / Pharmaceutical / Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field.
8+ years of applicable R&D experience in formulated products.
Knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices applicable to formulated product development.

Nice To Haves

2+ years of direct people management experience.
Demonstrated expertise in formulated product development and the ability to mentor others.
Track record of successfully developing, launching, and/or sustaining products in OTC drug and/or cosmetic categories.
In-depth understanding of U.S. cosmetic and OTC drug regulations, guidance, and best practices.
Proven performance coach: sets clear expectations, delivers actionable feedback, and develops talent.
Experience executing talent and performance management strategies.
Ability to communicate complex plans and technical information clearly across a division.
Consistent delivery of programs/goals on time, on quality, and within budget
General knowledge of the healthcare market and competitors.

Responsibilities

Lead and develop talent
Attract, develop, retain, and engage top talent; coach performance and support career growth.
Foster a culture of diversity, inclusion, and belonging through hiring, development, and daily leadership.
Translate department goals and strategy into clear, measurable objectives for your team.
Drive formulation R&D and innovation
Lead formulation development and sustainment activities from concept through launch and post-market support.
Make sound, independent decisions on project- and program-level technical priorities, risks, and tradeoffs.
Apply structured problem-solving and process improvement methods to technical, business, and personnel challenges.
Partner cross-functionally and communicate effectively
Lead complex initiatives across functions and business units to drive innovation and achieve business goals.
Communicate and present complex technical and regulatory topics clearly to diverse audiences, including senior leaders and external partners.
Partner with customers and key opinion leaders (KOLs) to inform technical strategy and align solutions to clinical and business needs.
Support customer-facing activities such as Voice of Customer and customer-centric design efforts.
Ensure compliance and quality
Lead your team and cross-functional partners to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and quality requirements.
Provide direction on formulated product development processes and procedures, including Quality by Design (QbD) principles.
Review, approve, and/or delegate approval of program-specific technical documentation and deliverables.
Manage project and financial accountability
Lead high-complexity projects with responsibility for planning, resourcing, and budget execution.
Contribute to project and business unit R&D budgets, forecasting, and tracking.
Collaborate on business modeling and strategy for product segments and/or functional initiatives.