Location : Peterborough, Cambridgeshire Hours: 37.5 Job Type : Full time Contract Type: Permanent Company Overview: The Creightons Plc group is made up of a select group of brands specialising in the creation of high-quality personal care and beauty products for the consumer and trade market. We are the key trading company based in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire that focuses on the design, manufacture and distribution across our own Brands, Private Label and Contract Manufacturing. Our customer base ranges from key multiple drugstore, grocery and fashion retailers to premium retailers in the UK and growing international markets. We are consistently setting the standards in product/brand development and manufacturing through exceptional customer service and service delivery, as well as a drive for innovation. The Opportunity: We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Research and Development (R&D) to lead our innovation efforts, drive product development, and enhance existing offerings. This leadership role is responsible for developing and executing R&D strategies, managing cross-functional teams, and collaborating with key stakeholders to ensure the company remains at the forefront of industry advancements. Role Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the R&D strategy aligned with the company’s vision, mission, and business goals. Identify and prioritise research projects and product development initiatives. Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape, using insights to guide strategic decisions and maintain a competitive edge. Project Management: Design and lead research and development programmes and projects – ensuring that work is delivered to time and quality expectations, within budget, and with appropriate measures of its impact. Innovation and Product Development: Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g. Sales, Production) to translate research findings into marketable products. Manage the development of prototypes, pilot projects, and full-scale products. Oversee continuous improvement initiatives for existing products, leveraging feedback from customers and market analysis. Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing R&D team. Recruit and retain top talent to ensure the team’s capabilities match the company’s needs. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a liaison between R&D and other departments, ensuring alignment of goals and communication. Regulatory and compliance Management: Ensure all R&D activities comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety protocols. Experience & Qualifications: Minimum of 8 years of experience in R&D, with 3 years in a leadership role. Bachelors or Masters Degree level in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology or similar discipline. SCS Diploma is desirable. Proven track record of leading successful R&D projects and bringing new products to market. Strong understanding of industry-specific knowledge/technologies. Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills. Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills. What We Can Offer You: Competitive Salary & Benefits: We believe in rewarding the hard work and dedication of our employees with a comprehensive compensation package. Our standard benefits include Life Assurance, Employee Assistance Programme, Employee Benefits Platform to name a few. Dynamic Work Environment: Be part of a vibrant, collaborative team where innovation and creativity are encouraged. Career Growth: Take advantage of clear career pathways, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to take on new challenges and responsibilities. Inclusive Culture: Join a diverse and inclusive workplace where different perspectives are valued, and everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful projects that have a real impact on our customers, community, and industry. REF-219488