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Inolex · 1 day ago

Director, R&D - Applications & Technical Service

Philadelphia, PA

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

6+ years exp

Inolex is seeking a Director for Applications & Technical Service to lead a high-performing team focused on innovation, technical excellence, and customer-centric solutions. This role is responsible for driving the development of new product applications, breakthrough prototypes, and innovative formulations that support commercialization strategies.

Cosmetics

Responsibilities

Lead the design and execution of formulation work, including hands-on lab work (40–50%), to generate application data and support product launches

Develop novel prototypes and demonstrators that showcase ingredient functionality and innovation potential

Deliver a targeted number of validated application prototypes annually, with reduced time-to-market for new concepts

Identify new use cases and market segments, contributing to portfolio expansion and strategic growth

Act as a technical ambassador in customer meetings, trainings, and industry events, spending 30–50% of time in direct customer interaction

Deliver high-impact customer training sessions and technical presentations to support product adoption, showcase innovation, and strengthen customer relationships

Achieve high customer satisfaction through responsive and impactful technical support

Provide technical training and support to internal teams including Research, Operation, Sales, and Marketing

Translate customer feedback, regulatory changes and market trends into actionable innovation strategies

Share high-impact technical insights that influence commercial strategy, with measurable adoption rates across internal teams

Conduct regular internal training sessions to build cross-functional technical capability

Define and manage project timelines, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring alignment with commercial goals

Deliver projects on time and within scope, with milestone completion tracked across all active initiatives

Maintain high-quality technical documentation, including application guides, data packages, and regulatory support materials

Collaborate cross-functionally to develop and present technical content for internal stakeholders, customers, and industry events

Lead joint initiatives with Sales, Marketing, and Regulatory teams to support product launches and market positioning

Contribute to strategic planning and portfolio development, with measurable cross-functional alignment and impact

Author technical papers and present at industry functions to promote Inolex's innovation, share scientific insights, and enhance visibility in the market

Ensure global applications labs operate in alignment with company strategies, technical and safety standards

Lead, coach, and inspire a team of 5–8 scientists to deliver best-in-class applications and customer support

Align team goals with corporate and departmental objectives, setting clear performance expectations and accountability

Foster a culture of innovation, learning, and continuous improvement

Recruit, develop, and retain top technical talent while supporting professional growth

Qualification

Formulation science expertisePrototype developmentAnalytical skillsIngredient functionalityProject managementPublic speakingCustomer engagementTeam leadershipOrganizational skills

Required

Proven expertise in formulation science across personal care categories (skin, hair, sun, hygiene)

Deep understanding of ingredient functionality, claims support, and formulation interactions

Demonstrated success in developing prototypes and application data that support new product launches and market innovation

Strong analytical skills with a customer-first mindset and the ability to translate technical features into consumer benefits

Confident communicator and public speaker with excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong organizational and time management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Strong leadership capabilities, including mentoring, project management, and cross-functional influence

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related field required; M.S. or Ph.D. preferred

10 years of industry experience with a B.S

8 years with an M.S

6 years with a Ph.D

Experience in the cosmetics industry, preferably with finished goods or ingredient manufacturers