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Manager of Skincare Product Development

New York, New York, United States
 
MERIT is a minimalist beauty brand that makes impossible to mess up products for a multi-generational community. Designed by makeup consumers — not artists — MERIT was created as the antidote to the overwhelming world of beauty. We simplify what it takes to get ready by creating only well-edited essentials that help you do more with less. With minimalism at its core, MERIT remains intentional in the products it creates, spending years perfecting every detail to ensure it’s not just another product, but one that you can live with for years to come.

The Manager of Skincare Product Development will execute NPD for Skincare and Fragrance categories, from concept to launch. In this role you will partner closely with internal and external partners to ensure timely product launches, managing risks and tradeoffs along the development process to deliver products with the highest standards of quality and performance that meet business objectives and delight our customers. 

Responsibilities: 

New Category/Product Development

  • Execute all phases of new product development, from ideation through launch for Skincare and Fragrance categories
  • Leverage experience managing product development from concept through testing, scale-up, manufacturing and launch, to ensure timely launches
  • Partner closely with internal cross-functional partners and lead all communications as it relates to product briefs, formula feedback, packaging, copy and claims, artwork and regulatory deliverables
  • Manage ongoing external partners relationships (contract manufacturers, fragrance houses, packaging suppliers, raw material suppliers)
  • Meet with raw material vendors to support formula innovation
  • Conduct competitive product analysis to stay ahead of market trends
  • Assist in coordinating and executing focus groups and in-office product testing
  • Support the organization and documentation of product batch approvals and feedback
  • Track formula testing parameters including stability, compatibility, specifications, safety and efficacy (clinical/consumer) testing
  • High level review of preliminary ingredient lists

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 3+ years of product development experience (skincare OTC, bodycare, and fragrance)
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science or related field
  • An in-depth understanding of the Product Development process from concept to launch
  • Demonstrated prioritization and planning skills, with a record of effectively managing multiple projects simultaneously
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills 
  • A high attention to detail
  • A deep understanding of the beauty space with a pulse on industry trends, new innovations, etc.
  • Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to deliver clear and concise summaries to management
  • Uphold and be a steward of Merit’s core values
  • An ability to travel domestically and internationally (up to 20% of time) 

We are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package in addition to salary compensation. The annual salary range for this role is $92,000 - $105,000 (DOE), in addition to bonus potential, stock options, a 401(k) match, health benefits, paid time off and more. The final salary will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the individual's experience and qualifications.

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