Job Specifications
Suave is looking for and R&D Consultant for this full-time, 1099, long-term position. This is a hybrid position in Hackensack, NJ.
This role will lead claims development and substantiation including new product development activities in support of domestic and global innovation pipelines. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, can independently manage multiple projects, and brings strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Expertise and skills in end to end new product development and demonstrated leadership in claim strategy and substantiation techniques for personal care products is preferred. This is a highly cross-functional role requiring collaboration with R&D, Regulatory, Marketing, Consumer Insights, and external testing partners.
What Makes This Role Exciting:
•High visibility across R&D, Marketing, and Innovation.
•Opportunity to shape claims strategy at concept stage—not just validate it.
•Space to think creatively and propose novel approaches to demonstrate product benefits.
•A role where independent leadership and initiative are valued, not just execution.
Primary Responsibilities Include the Following:
•Lead new product development and claims review & approval processes from concept through commercialization.
•Develop claims substantiation strategies including evidence plans, protocols, and technical justification memos.
•Conduct competitive claims landscaping to identify white space, category norms, and differentiation opportunities.
•Coordinate sample preparation and shipment for in-vivo, in-vitro, instrumental, and consumer testing studies.
•Review and interpret clinical, instrumental, and in-vitro test reports and translate outcomes into claims language suitable for packaging and marketing assets.
•Partner closely with marketing to ensure claims are compelling, compliant, and aligned with brand strategy.
•Maintain awareness of evolving global claims regulations and category guidance.
•Collaborate with external manufacturers, providing on-site development & formulation support for end-to-end new innovation projects.
Required Qualifications Include the Following:
•5+ years of experience with consumer goods, personal care, cosmetics, or a related science field.
•Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related technical discipline.
•Strong understanding of GxPs, claims compliance principles, and applicable FDA/FTC regulations.
•Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to translate technical data into consumer-friendly messaging.
•Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects independently and deliver results on time.
•Entrepreneurial mindset—comfortable taking ownership, driving decisions, and working hands-on.
•Strong critical thinking and business judgment; able to recommend paths forward with clarity and confidence.
•Ability to partner effectively across a diverse set of internal & external business partners and customers to deliver key results in a timely manner.
Preferred Qualifications Include the Following:
•Prior claims substantiation and study design experience for cosmetics and OTCs.
•Specialized experience in skin care (highly preferred), sun care, baby care, hair care, cleansing, deodorant, and adjacent products.
•Demonstrated expertise in formulation and new product development.
Personal Attributes Include the Following:
•Positive, energetic, and driven — with a strong sense of urgency and ownership.
•Consumer-obsessed with a passion for delivering products that genuinely improve daily routines.
•Curious and growth-minded — actively seeks better processes, new ideas, and smart efficiencies.
•Builds strong relationships and trust quickly across technical teams, manufacturing partners, and leadership.
•Balances strategic thinking with a willingness to be hands-on when needed.
•Exceptionally strong in problem solving, prioritization, execution, and follow-through.
About the Company
At Suave Brands Company, our mission is to elevate the standard of beauty and personal care in North America. Together with Yellow Wood Partners, we are committed to making superior products accessible to all consumers. Suave's legacy, dating back to the 1930s, is to democratize salon-quality care. Our comprehensive range of hair and body care products, serving women, men, and kids, embody this mission.
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