Research & Development Manager

About this position Who We Are John Paul Mitchell Systems ("JPMS") is recognized worldwide for developing and marketing innovative hair and skin care products since 1980. We serve the professional beauty industry with salon‑quality hair care products, styling tools, and professional hair color through our brands including Paul Mitchell, MITCH, Awapuhi Wild Ginger, Tea Tree, Paul Mitchell Tools, Neuro, The Demi, Paul Mitchell the Color, Blonde, and Color XG. We are committed to reducing animal testing, giving back to philanthropic causes, and pursuing sustainability with climate‑neutral operations. Who You Are You are a skilled, high‑performing professional who is passionate about hair care and eager to contribute to our iconic brand and people‑first culture. About the Role We are seeking an R&D Manager, Product Lifecycle, to lead management and optimization of the existing product portfolio. This role drives reformulation initiatives, cost optimization, compliance updates, and ensures consistent product performance across current line items. The ideal candidate combines hands‑on reformulation expertise with a strategic mindset to identify opportunities to improve product performance, cost structure, and claims within an existing portfolio. Strong cross‑functional leadership and the ability to translate technical decisions into business impact are required. Location and Travel This role is fully on‑site at our R&D site in Santa Clarita, CA. Up to 10% travel may be required for Contract Manufacturer visits, validation, or lifecycle support. What You Will Do Lead the execution of reformulation initiatives across the existing product portfolio Identify and drive opportunities for cost optimization (COGS), performance improvement, and product upgrades Manage lifecycle pipeline prioritization, ensuring alignment with business, regulatory, and operational needs Ensure product performance, quality, and consistency across batches, markets, and manufacturing sites Ensure all reformulations maintain or improve product claims and consumer‑relevant performance Proactively identify opportunities for new claims, performance enhancements, and portfolio upgrades Lead compliance‑driven formula changes and regulatory updates across global markets Partner closely with Procurement, Regulatory, Quality, Packaging, and Operations to deliver changes effectively Oversee technically packaging updates and compatibility to ensure product integrity Support SKU rationalization and portfolio optimization decisions Lead and develop chemists and lab techs, building reformulation and technical capability within the team Apply AI‑driven insights and modern innovation approaches to accelerate development and decision‑making Required Qualifications Skills: Expertise in hands‑on formulation of hair care or personal care products with emphasis on reformulation Proven track record of delivering reformulation projects tied to cost savings, compliance, and performance improvement Strong understanding of raw material functionality, cost drivers, and substitution strategies Deep knowledge of surfactants, conditioning systems, emulsions, polymers, and rheology modifiers Experience transferring formulas from lab to manufacturing scale and troubleshooting scale‑up challenges Strong understanding of global cosmetic regulations (US, EU preferred) and compliance‑driven reformulations Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects and competing priorities Strong business acumen with ability to connect technical decisions to financial and consumer impact Excellent communication skills with ability to translate technical data into clear business insights Strong cross‑functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills Education Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Science, or related field required Experience 10+ years of hands‑on formulation experience in hair care or personal care products from concept to commercialization with emphasis on reformulation 3+ years of experience leading and developing technical teams Preferred Qualifications Education: Master’s degree preferred Experience: Experience in professional salon brands Experience working with contract manufacturers and external partners Experience supporting global product portfolios and launches Experience with packaging compatibility and lifecycle management Working Conditions Onsite in lab, office and warehouse environments with up to 10% travel Compensation Base salary range: $150,000 to $160,000. The exact base salary is determined by location, experience, skills, and education. Discretionary bonus plan eligible based on personal performance and company results Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement plan with company match, paid family leave, and paid holidays Equal Opportunity We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value a diverse environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr