Formulation Scientist

Manpower are currently seeking an interim Hair Aerosol Formulation Scientist, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based at our client's scientific Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral easily accessible by train and car. This is a full-time temporary role to run until March 2027, requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying between 31,205 and £37,665 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

Business Context and Main Purpose of the Job

Unilever is a fast-moving consumer goods company, and the global styling team is looking

for an exceptional Hair Aerosol Formulation Scientist to help deliver innovative hair aerosol

products that delight consumers. Our team has the unique advantage of being involved in

new product development from concept through to launch, working across iconic brands

such as Sunsilk, Tresemmé, Dove, Nexxus, Andrelon, and many more globally.

The role spans a diverse product range including dry shampoos, hairsprays, mousses, and

emerging aerosol formats. It involves both formulation and packaging development to create

final products that combine superior performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

Our ambition is to create irresistible products that meet consumer needs while driving

innovation and efficiency.

Main Accountabilities

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Lead the development of next-generation hair aerosol products, covering both
  
  formulation and packaging aspects as well as straightening the current product
  
  range.
  
  
• Lead the hair aerosol innovation projects to a high standard by planning and
  
  executing experiments, generating and analysing data, drawing clear conclusions,
  
  and recommending next steps. Communicate findings effectively to stakeholders.
  
  
• Identify and develop new and existing benefits for hair aerosol formats, including
  
  hairsprays, dry shampoos, and mousses, ensuring alignment with consumer needs
  
  and market trends.
  
  
• Create and optimise hair aerosol formulations, ensuring adherence to all relevant
  
  regulations and quality standards.
  
  
• Define and drive the formulation and packaging agenda for hair aerosol formats,
  
  coordinating and executing qualification testing to support product manufacture and
  
  validation.
  
  
• Enhance current testing methodologies, generate robust data, and present insights
  
  with clear recommendations to inform decision-making and future development.
  
  
• Plan and supervise the work of other team members, providing technical guidance,
  
  mentoring, and support to ensure high-quality delivery and capability development
  
  across the team.
  
  Direct Reports Key Interfaces
  
  This position will report into senior manager. BRAND, CTI, other format's, supply chain,
  
  procurement, TPL, BU, suppliers, patents.
  
  Essential Experience / Skills
  
  
• BSc/MSc in a relevant scientific discipline.
  
  
• Understanding of aerosol products preferred and ideally expertise in one or more of the
  
  following areas: colloid science, polymer science, electrochemistry, or material
  
  science.
  
  
• Previous experience in personal care formulation science desirable
  
  
• Excellent laboratory skills with the ability to translate experimental insights into
  
  innovative product opportunities.
  
  
• Ability to work independently and effectively within a multidisciplinary team
  
  environment.
  
  
• Strong technical skills combined with a passion for learning and exploring new
  
  technologies.
  
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for clear reporting and stakeholder
  
  engagement.
  
  
• Self-motivated, hardworking, loyal, and committed, with a growth
  
  mindset and bias for action.
  
  
• Strong IT skills and a proactive approach to leveraging new digital tools and
  
  technologies.
  
  
• A consumer/customer-centric mindset to ensure product relevance and appeal
  
  Port Sunlight working environment:
  
  Free onsite parking
  Staff shop discounted products
  Working in state-of-the-art laboratory and pilot plant facilities
  Free parking onsite
  5 mins walk to train station serving Liverpool & Chester
  20-minute drive from Liverpool city centre/30-minutes drive from Chester
  Disabled parking
  In the heart of picturesque Port Sunlight village
  There are also several site clubs available to join covering a range of topics including Book Club, Running, Choir, Pool, Genealogy and much more.
  The sites have three catering outlets which provide a range of hot and cold food and drinks daily.
  In addition there are a range of vending machines and cold water dispensers around the site accessible throughout the day