Product Development Technologist - Formulator at Unilever

Unilever had the fastest growing HC business in the world over the last three years with broad-based growth, improving brand equities, and strong technology pipelines. At Unilever Homecare, we are not only dedicated to meeting our social commitments that address climate change, but also to create consumer and brand experiences that last.
We are looking for inquisitive, passionate and disruptive thinkers to join us in leading the creation and development of even better, more sustainable and more innovative products.
This role provides the opportunity to work in the biggest division in Unilever and on the biggest format withing that. It is an opportune time to join the team as we journey on our Clean Future strategy which is out social commitment to clean up the planet.

WHAT DO WE OFFER?

• The opportunity to work on Brands like Omo, Sunlight, Skip and Surf that have the power to brighten peoples’ lives in Africa. Be part of a diverse and ambitious team shaping the future of Homecare products. Exciting future career opportunities in a global, purpose led business.

Job Summary

• Formulate products (specifically powder detergents) that meet our performance and authenticity standards and ensure that products are delivered on-time and within budget while meeting all consumer and technical objectives
• Oversee projects independently, working well cross-functionally with Marketing, Supply Chain, other R&D groups and suppliers.
• Collaborate in product qualification including product stability testing, micro-challenge, and performance testing.
• Collaborate on product development with manufacturers.
• Support scale up by generating data that provides a holistic picture of potential formula manufacturing behaviour when applicable.
• Support product launch with visit to outside manufacturer partners, market and consumer insight events as requested.
• Participate on needed basis in cross functional teams for new product development and launches.
• Conduct market analyses to identify products’ innovative points of differentiation for formulation, claims and/or performance.
• Identify, review and assess pertinent technologies from external and internal sources.
• Stay abreast of technical developments and regulatory updates in the homecare category
• Develop product specifications for new products and create documentation to support all product qualification requirements.
• Develop and maintain relationships with existing and potential raw material suppliers.
• Commit to personal development and professional growth by actively participating in personal development initiatives and applying developmental thinking within the context of planning and executing work.
• Perform other tasks as may be required by Research & Development in the fulfilment of its objectives

Key Requirements

• We are looking for people with the right attitude, mind set and competencies. Experience in FMCG product development is an advantage, but not essential.
• Technical education: BS in Chemistry, Bio-chemistry, Chemical Engineering
• Experience in R&D, Formula Development or Technical Product Management preferably in a consumer products goods company; more preferably in-Home Care Development (not essential)
• Experience reviewing and assessing new technologies and regulations is desired.
• Project management skills
• Computer skills, including Microsoft Office, Excel, Powerpoint
• Strong organizational, verbal, and written skills with intense attention to detail.
• Able to maintain a neat lab complying with GLP, work cleanly and independently in the lab
• Able to prioritize and meet deadlines within specified time constraints.
• Self-motivated with an enhanced ability to work independently.
• Passion and strong alignment with Unilever’s Vision and Values
• Strong problem solving and organizational skills and proven ability to work in a fast-paced work environment.
• Ability to operate effectively in a team
• Open minded and can-do attitude is essential