Senior Manager - R&D (Hair Care)
Role PurposeThe Senior Manager - R&D will lead end-to-end formulation innovation and execution for Purplle’s private labels and exclusive brands.This role is responsible not only for product formulation delivery, but also for development of new molecules, actives, and proprietary technology platforms that create sustainable differentiation for Purplle brands. The role demands a strong blend of deep technical expertise, commercial judgment, and execution speed.Key Responsibilities1. Product & Formula Development (Core Ownership)Own end-to-end formulation development across skincare, haircare, personal care, and colour cosmetics:Benchmarking (India & global),Lab-scale formulation & Optimization for performance, cost, and scaleTranslate brand briefs into high-performing, scalable, and consumer-relevant formulas.Drive fast prototyping and rapid iteration to support aggressive launch timelines.Ensure formulas are aligned with:Indian consumer needs, Clean / conscious beauty trends, Derma-led & performance-driven positioning 2. New Molecules, Actives & Technology DevelopmentLead development of new molecules, active systems, and delivery technologies, including Novel active blends, Encapsulation & delivery systems, Texture & sensorial platforms, Preservation and stability innovationsLead development of new molecules, active systems, and delivery technologies, including Novel active blends, Encapsulation & delivery systems, Texture & sensorial platforms, Preservation and stability innovationsPartner with Raw material suppliers, Global ingredient innovators, Research labs & technology partnersEvaluate and translate emerging cosmetic technologies into commercially viable products.Build proprietary or semi-exclusive technology platforms that can be leveraged across multiple SKUs and brands.Support IP generation, documentation, and claim substantiation for new technologies. 3. Scale-Up, Manufacturing & Tech TransferLead formula scale-up with contract manufacturers - Pilot batches, Trial runs, First commercial batchesLead formula scale-up with contract manufacturers - Pilot batches, Trial runs, First commercial batchesOwn tech transfer including SOPs, BMRs, Critical process parametersTroubleshoot scale-up challenges related to Rheology changes, Sensory drift,Yield loss and Stability failures 4. Regulatory, Safety & ComplianceEnsure all formulations comply with:Indian Cosmetics Rules (CDSCO)Global regulations (ASEAN / EU / US where applicable)Work closely with regulatory teams on:Ingredient approvalsSafety & toxicology inputsClaim substantiation supportAnticipate regulatory risks early to avoid launch delays. 5. Costing, Margin & Commercial ViabilityOwn formulation-level costing and BOM accuracy.Drive cost optimization while maintaining product performance.Partner with sourcing and finance teams to Optimize raw material choices and Balance innovation vs. gross margin targetsLead reformulation initiatives for cost-down or compliance updates. 6. Team Leadership & Capability BuildingLead, mentor, and develop formulation teams.Define Formulation SOPs, documentation standards, Stability & testing protocolsBuild a strong internal knowledge base for actives, technologies, and formulations. 7. Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Brand & Marketing (claims, sensorials, storytelling), Packaging (compatibility, dispensing, sustainability), Quality, Regulatory & Supply ChainWork closely with Brand & Marketing (claims, sensorials, storytelling), Packaging (compatibility, dispensing, sustainability), Quality, Regulatory & Supply ChainAct as the technical authority translating consumer insight into executable innovation. Qualifications & ExperienceM.Sc / M.Tech / PhD in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, or Chemical Engineering10+ years of formulation development experienceProven experience in Skincare & haircare (mandatory), Actives & technology-led product developmentProven experience in Skincare & haircare (mandatory), Actives & technology-led product developmentHands-on experience working with Indian & global contract manufacturers and Raw material innovatorsPrior experience managing formulation teams Skills & CompetenciesDeep expertise in Emulsions, surfactants, anhydrous systems, Actives, delivery systems, preservativesStrong understanding of Stability, compatibility, and scale-up scienceCommercial acumen and execution mindsetStrong stakeholder management skills