Job Description
The Product Development Manager (PDM) is responsible for driving the end-to-end product strategy, development direction, and commercialization of Dermorepubliq products. The role ensures that all new products are market-driven, customer-focused, and aligned with brand positioning and revenue objectives.
The PDM owns the “what to develop and why”, leveraging market research, Voice of the Customer (VOC), and commercial insights, while working closely with the R&D Manager who leads formulation and technical execution.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Product Strategy & Pipeline Ownership
- Define and manage the product development roadmap aligned with company revenue growth targets
- Identify product opportunities based on:
- Market trends and competitor analysis
- Customer insights (VOC, reviews, feedback)
- Sales and revenue data
- Other data sources available
- Own and prioritize the product pipeline to support launch targets (e.g., monthly/quarterly SKU releases)
- Market Intelligence & Consumer Insights
- Lead market research and competitive benchmarking activities
- Translate insights into clear product opportunities and positioning strategies
- Identify gaps, white spaces, and innovation opportunities within the portfolio
- Product Concept & Direction
- Define product concepts including:
- Product type and format (e.g., serum, toner, lotion)
- Key ingredients and claims direction
- Packaging concept and customer experience
- Ensure alignment between:
- Brand positioning
- Customer expectations
- Cost and margin targets
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- Serve as the central driver of alignment across:
- R&D (formulation feasibility and development)
- Marketing (claims, branding, campaigns)
- QA/Regulatory (compliance and substantiation)
- SCM/Procurement (materials and packaging sourcing)
- Lead product development discussions and decision-making
- Product Development Execution Oversight
- Translate product concepts into Product Development Requests (PDRs)
- Oversee execution of the NPD process from:
- Concept → Development → Validation → Scale-up → Launch
- Ensure adherence to defined timelines (e.g., ≤3-month NPD cycle)
- Identify risks and drive mitigation actions
- Commercial & Financial Alignment
- Ensure products meet:
- Target cost of goods (COGS)
- Gross margin requirements
- Revenue contribution targets
- Support pricing strategy and product positioning in collaboration with Finance and Marketing
- Product Launch & Lifecycle Management
- Ensure readiness for launch:
- Claims substantiation
- Packaging and labeling alignment
- Regulatory compliance
- Monitor post-launch performance
- Sales and customer feedback
- Product quality or complaint trends
- Drive product optimization, reformulation, or discontinuation as needed
Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other duties as assigned by CSO and Top Management
- Assist in special projects or improvement initiatives as directed.
Key Interfaces
- Chief Scientific Officer (CSO): Strategic alignment and portfolio prioritization
- R&D Manager: Formulation development and technical feasibility
- Marketing Team: Brand direction, claims, and go-to-market strategy
- Quality & Regulatory: Compliance, documentation, and approvals
- SCM/Procurement: Raw materials and packaging sourcing
- Finance: Costing, pricing, and revenue performance
QUALIFICATION & REQUIREMENTS
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmacy, or related field
- MBA or equivalent business experience is an advantage
- 3–5+ years experience in product development, preferably in cosmetics, pharma, or FMCG
- Proven experience in end-to-end product lifecycle management
SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
- Strong balance of commercial insight and technical understanding
- Deep knowledge of cosmetic product development processes
- Excellent project management and cross-functional leadership
- Data-driven decision-making using market and customer insights
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
- Gain exposure to end-to-end product lifecycle management, from market insight generation to product launch and post-launch optimization.
- Develop strong expertise in market-driven product strategy, including Voice of the Customer (VOC), competitive benchmarking, and portfolio management.
- Opportunity to lead cross-functional initiatives across R&D, Marketing, Quality/Regulatory (QRRS), and Supply Chain, strengthening leadership and stakeholder management skills.
- Build capabilities in commercial decision-making, including pricing strategy, cost optimization, and margin management.
- Participate in innovation and product portfolio expansion, contributing to new category development and brand growth.
- Exposure to regulatory and compliance frameworks (FDA Philippines, ASEAN Cosmetic Directive), ensuring products are both competitive and compliant.
- Opportunity to mentor and develop Product Development Specialist(s) as the team scales.
- Attend and participate in industry trainings, conferences, and workshops related to product development, consumer trends, and innovation.
ORGANIZATIONAL POSITION
- Reports directly to CSO
- Operates at the same level as R&D Manager
- May oversee Product Development Specialist(s) as the team scales
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Primarily office-based
- Requires coordination with laboratories, suppliers, and toll manufacturers to support quality and compliance activities.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
Dermorepubliq is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.
