R&D Manager -Knowlton Research & Development

At KDC/ONE, we are leaders in contract manufacturing and the largest manufacturer of deodorants in North America. At the heart of our values is excellence, which motivates us to make every effort to realize the projects of our clients. In addition to our major specializations, we continuously strive to innovate to design more than a thousand other beauty, health and hygiene products.

The mission we are proposing:

We are currently seeking a qualified candidate to fill the position of R&D Manager.
Reporting to the R&D Director, the R&D Manager is responsible for the strategic supervision and coordination of new product development projects, working closely with clients and various internal teams. The manager ensures that each stage of the development process is executed efficiently, while meeting technical, regulatory, budgetary, and timeline requirements. This key role contributes to achieving innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction objectives, while fostering effective communication among departmental stakeholders.

An overview of your new position

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee the full lifecycle of R&D projects, from client brief to production transfer.
• Assess the feasibility of client requests, considering manufacturing capacity, regulatory complexity, cost constraints, and timelines.
• Develop and track project timelines, ensuring the appropriate allocation of internal resources at each phase.
• Promote effective cross-functional collaboration among departments (formulation, engineering, purchasing, regulatory, quality, and production).

• Participate actively in product development meetings to ensure alignment of technical and business objectives.

• Represent the R&D department in communications with clients and strategic partners.
• Ensure that all documentation (formulas, specifications, costing, stability reports, etc.) is complete, validated, and properly archived.
• Maintain data integrity within internal management systems (AS/400 or other platforms).
• Provide clients with required documentation and follow up on requests for changes or non-conformances.
• Generate monthly Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor project and process efficiency.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing timelines, quality, and profitability.
• Encourage a collaborative work environment focused on innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Support team development by facilitating knowledge sharing and best practices.
• Perform other tasks, activities, or special projects as requested by the R&D Director.

You are the ideal candidate if you have

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry or science ;

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the cosmetics and/or pharmaceutical industry ;

• Proficiency with computer tools ;

• Autonomy, meticulousness ;

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; leadership ;

• Strong organizational skills with good planning and project management skills ;

• Strong interest in product design and development ;

• Bilingualism ;

What we have to offer you

• Comprehensive coverage including vision, dental, medical, and more.
• Telemedecine/Telepharmacy
• RRSP: Your employer contributes up to 4% of your salary, corresponding to your contribution
• Bonus: Access to a bonus program based on our success as a company and your personal goals achieved.
• Onsite cafeteria for convenient and enjoyable meal breaks.
• Internal mobility and career development opportunities to develop your potential

Does the challenge speak to you? To learn more and apply, it’s right here…