Your role in a nutshell
Do you have hands‑on formulation experience, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative mindset to drive continuous improvement and ensure product excellence?
We are seeking a detail‑oriented and technically skilled Cosmetic Formula Chemist on a 12 month fixed‑term basis to support the maintenance and optimization of our existing product portfolio across skincare, haircare, and bath & body categories. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the continued success of our iconic products by leading reformulation, troubleshooting, compliance updates, and cost‑saving initiatives. You will also contribute to VRE projects through open innovation, ensuring timely delivery of high‑quality products that reflect The Body Shop’s values and meet evolving consumer expectations.
More about the role
Formula External Development & Maintenance
Lead formulation projects with external partners from brief to launch, ensuring safety, performance, and brand alignment.
- Brief external partners (vendors, labs, manufacturers, academia) on formulation requirements and scope.
- Evaluate sample sensoriality, conformity and ensure timely feedback and iteration.
- Support external partners as required to successful industrialization and scale‑up.
Existing Product Development & Optimization
- Support reformulation and improvement of existing products to enhance performance, compliance, or consumer experience.
- Lead troubleshooting efforts for in‑market products, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions from Formula perspective.
- Support regulatory updates and raw material substitutions to maintain compliance and continuity.
Project Coordination & Productivity
- Ensure cohesive partnership with all parties in managing timelines, risks, and backup plans to secure launch readiness. Ensure timely execution and documentation of all required tests (stability, safety, challenge, etc.).
- Efficiently use available tools and systems to maintain accurate records and official documentation across development phases in a timely manner.
Technical Analysis & Support
- Conduct technical data analysis to support risk assessments and business decisions.
- Provide expert input on formulation‑related issues and propose corrective actions.
- Build relationships with internal teams (Brand, Packaging, Safety, Procurement, etc.) and external partners.
- Ensure smooth flow of information and samples across all stakeholders.
- Represent R&D in cross‑functional meetings and project reviews.
- Propose processes improvements where applicable.
What we look for
Technical Expertise
Deep knowledge of cosmetic formulation and product development processes; strong understanding of safety, stability, and regulatory testing.
Project & Process Management
Skilled in managing multiple projects with tight timelines and cross‑functional coordination; ability to assess risks, plan contingencies, and ensure launch readiness.
Analytical & Problem Solving
Sharp analytical thinking for evaluating samples, test results, and technical data; solution‑oriented mindset for troubleshooting formulation and production issues.
Excellent written and verbal communication for internal and external stakeholder engagement; strong interpersonal skills to build partnerships with vendors, labs, and cross‑functional teams.
Passion for exploring new formats, technologies, and consumer‑driven solutions.
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree level in Chemistry / Cosmetic science/ Pharmacy
- Knowledge of technical English
- 3-5 years of proven experience in cosmetic formulation development, ideally within a fast‑paced, innovation‑driven environment
- Demonstrated success in leading product development projects from concept to launch
- Hands‑on experience collaborating with external partners such as vendors, laboratories, and contract manufacturers
- Strong background in managing formulation testing (stability, safety, challenge, contaminants) and production scale‑up
- Familiarity with regulatory standards and documentation processes in the cosmetics industry
As well as a competitive salary, here are just a few of the rewards that you can look forward to if you join us: a 6% non‑contributory pension plan, 23 days holiday, 50% staff discount and access to product sample sales, access to Perks at Work, our online shopping channel with exclusive deals & discounts, as well as LOVE money to spend on your wellbeing and personal development.
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