R&D Lab Manager - Cosmetics & Skincare

At SeneGence, beauty is designed to last. With a legacy built on innovation, science-backed formulations, and empowering beauty solutions, we continue to shape the industry with high-performance skincare and cosmetics. As we strengthen our commitment to excellence, we are seeking an experienced R&D Lab Manager to lead our laboratory operations and oversee product development at our newly relocated Oklahoma-based lab.

This role is instrumental in ensuring seamless lab operations, maintaining product integrity, and upholding regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will bring a minimum of 10 years of experience in skincare, hair care, and color cosmetics, along with expertise in pilot batch production, scale-ups, and formula/process validation with a strong focus on GMP standards. Familiarity with global cosmetic regulations is essential to support our expanding markets and continued product innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage all laboratory functions related to cosmetics and personal care product development in our Oklahoma facility.
• Ensure smooth transition and continuity of lab operations following the relocation.
• Drive product innovation in skincare, hair care, and color cosmetics.
• Manage pilot batches and scale-ups, ensuring formula and process validation in compliance with GMP standards.
• Collaborate with internal teams (Chemistry, R&D, Marketing, Sales) to align product development with business goals.
• Ensure compliance with global cosmetic regulations and industry standards.
• Supervise and mentor laboratory staff, providing technical leadership and development.
• Analyze and interpret data, ensuring accuracy in technical reports and documentation.
• Support business operations by working closely with sales, account managers, and external partners.
• Provide technical guidance to internal and external stakeholders, acting as an industry expert.
• Travel up to 10% as needed for industry events, vendor collaboration, or technical support.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in cosmetics, skincare, hair care, or personal care product development.
• Preferred, MS in Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related field (preferred with 5-7 years of industry experience).
• Proven expertise in GMPs, formula validation, and global cosmetic regulations.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite for data analysis and reporting.
• Demonstrated leadership in a lab setting, with experience managing teams.
• Strong customer focus and ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.

Why Join SeneGence?

At SeneGence, beauty is designed to last. For over 25 years, we have built a legacy centered around a radiant vision of beauty and innovation, crafting high-performance cosmetics and skincare solutions that empower and inspire. Under the visionary leadership of our founder & CEO, Joni Rogers-Kante, SeneGence revolutionized the beauty industry with LipSense, the original long-lasting, smudge-proof liquid lip color.

We are dedicated to blending science and nature, utilizing clean, natural ingredients backed by research, and continuing to develop innovative, high-quality formulas that enhance skin and elevate beauty routines worldwide. Our mission extends beyond products-we are committed to empowering women through financial opportunities, a strong sense of community, and a vision that transforms lives through beauty.

By joining our team, you will:

• Take the lead in shaping and optimizing our recently relocated R&D Lab in Oklahoma, with the opportunity to refine operations and optimize processes.
• Work with a dedicated team focused on maintaining and enhancing formulations in Work with a dynamic team committed to product innovation, quality, and excellence.
• Be part of a well-established company with a passion for creating high-performance beauty products.
• Apply your technical expertise in formulation, process validation, and regulatory compliance within a structured leadership role.

This position is ideal for an experienced R&D professional seeking a long-term leadership role in laboratory management, where consistency, precision, and regulatory expertise are key. If you're passionate about overseeing R&D operations and ensuring excellence in cosmetic product development, we'd love to hear from you!