Director, New Product Development & Projects

About the role

The Director of New Product Development & Projects will lead KAYALI’s global product development function, overseeing the entire lifecycle from concept to post‑launch optimization. This senior position ensures that every fragrance launch follows a standardized Stage‑Gate process, delivering speed‑to‑market and cross‑functional alignment.

Key responsibilities

• Own and continuously improve the Stage‑Gate product development framework, defining entry/exit criteria and decision checkpoints.
• Develop and maintain a 24‑month global launch roadmap aligned with brand, commercial, and supply strategies.
• Drive on‑time, in‑full (OTIF) delivery of all launches worldwide.
• Lead front‑end innovation activities, integrating consumer insights, opportunity sizing, and feasibility assessments.
• Oversee end‑to‑end development, including formulation, packaging, testing, regulatory validation, and milestone tracking.
• Facilitate risk mitigation, issue escalation, and cross‑functional alignment throughout each project phase.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in new product development or innovation project management, preferably within the beauty or fragrance industry.
• Strong track record of implementing Stage‑Gate or similar product development methodologies at a global scale.
• Excellent analytical and business case evaluation skills, with the ability to balance speed, risk, and quality.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and align cross‑functional teams across regions.

Required skills

• Stage‑Gate product development framework
• Project management and milestone tracking
• Feasibility assessment (formula, packaging, regulatory, supply)
• Business case validation (cost, margin, timeline, scale)