Project Manager

kdc/one•Los Angeles, CA

48d

About The Position

The Project Manager oversees the full lifecycle of new and existing personal care product projects in a fast‑paced contract manufacturing environment. This role drives cross‑functional coordination, client communication, and project execution to ensure products are developed, validated, and launched on schedule, within scope, and in compliance with customer, regulatory, and internal requirements. The Project Manager leads New Product Development (NPD) efforts through the Stage‑Gate process and supports all pre‑ and post‑launch activities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field.
Minimum 5+ years of Project Management or Product Development experience in consumer products; cosmetics, contract manufacturing, or FDA‑regulated industries preferred.
Strong understanding of OTC and personal care product requirements.
Proven track record of leading projects to completion on time and within budget.
Strong communication skills (verbal, written, interpersonal).
Effective leadership, collaboration, time‑management, and problem‑solving skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities accurately and efficiently.
Commitment to continuous learning and staying current with industry trends.

Nice To Haves

Project Management training or certification preferred.
Experience with PLM systems preferred.
Advanced proficiency in MS Office and advanced knowledge of QAD or comparable ERP/MRP systems.

Responsibilities

Acts as the primary liaison for client communication, project updates, and new product requests.
Manages project planning, scheduling, and execution through the Stage‑Gate process.
Facilitates collaboration across R&D, Customer Service, Purchasing, Finance, Engineering, QA, Regulatory, Packaging, and Product Structure.
Communicates project risks and mitigation strategies proactively.
Oversees technical programs supporting new formulations, reformulations, and delivery system enhancements.
Reviews formula submissions; provides direction and feedback to clients and internal teams.
Partners with R&D and laboratory teams on pilot batches, scale‑ups, and technical documentation.
Manages timelines for stability, compatibility, clinical testing (RIPT, no‑tear), OTC requirements, and other evaluations.
Coordinates artwork approvals, fill‑weight confirmation, and packaging claims with QA and Regulatory.
Ensures regulatory compliance for labeling, claims, and formula requirements.
Develops and provides pricing for new products and updates to existing items.
Ensures timely execution of specs, artwork, packaging, and production readiness for on‑time launches.
Identifies new trends, ingredient innovations, and product opportunities for clients.
Ensures accurate and complete documentation throughout all project phases.
Uses ERP/MRP and PLM systems for project tracking, costing, and product structure management.
Supports and identifies opportunities for process improvements.
Demonstrates initiative, urgency, and commitment to organizational goals.
Performs additional responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Project Management or Director of Product Development.