Director of Product Development, Hair, PATTERN

• Identify benchmarks and ingredient proposals that elevate and expand product concepts.
• Collaborate with Product Marketing/Marketing to ideate new product concepts, align on assortment and category strategies, and contribute to the long-term NPD roadmap.
• Continually analyze the category, competitive landscape, and evolving consumer needs to identify innovation white space; regularly share insights with cross-functional teams.
• Champion consumer and clinical testing to validate product performance and efficacy.
• Recommend product line expansions or updates based on insights, supplier innovation, and strategic brand goals.
• Lead competitive and trend analysis, evaluating product aesthetics, claims, and positioning to inform new concepts.
• Attend trade shows and industry events to scout ingredients, technologies, and emerging consumer preferences.
• Ensure that the team utilizes project management tools to track updates, milestones, and product lifecycle stages.

• Work closely with external quality and regulatory partners to ensure products comply with domestic and international regulations.
• Oversee regulatory documentation, safety substantiation, and retailer registration to support new product launches.

• Partner closely with Marketing and Creative to deliver a cohesive, consumer-first product experience.
• Collaborate with the VP of Product Development to align on strategic objectives through identifying and prioritizing new development initiatives
• Revise or define new processes, and support rapid growth.
• Lead the cross-functional claims process to ensure all consumer and clinical testing aligns with project timelines and brand standards.
• Work collaboratively across functions to support and maintain a rolling 2-year launch calendar.

• Establish and maintain strong vendor relationships; lead proactive communication and coordination of innovation sessions and presentations.
• Visit vendor sites at critical stages of development to ensure alignment on quality, timeline, and innovation goals.
• Partner with suppliers through the entire development lifecycle—including formula creation, pricing negotiation, quote requests, and delivery per NPD timelines.
• Maintain and manage COGs to ensure margin targets are met throughout the development process.

• Manage and mentor the product development team, supporting performance, training, and career growth.
• Optimize internal PD processes, SOPs, and aesthetic standards to ensure efficiency and consistency across launches.
• Monitor formula and packaging costs, making recommendations to ensure product profitability and feasibility.

Required Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Executive presence and ability to influence leadership
• Crisis management
• Stakeholder management
• High-level decision-making
• Risk assessment and management
• Manage budget and allocate resources

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in product development, with a focus on Haircare & Personal Care products.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing product development teams.
• Strong understanding of the product development process, from ideation to launch.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of relevant regulations and safety standards.

Salary Range: $140k to $155k annually.