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. The role is based at Unilever’s Research & Development facility in Port Sunlight Village, Wirral and is a full‑time temporary position running until March 2027. It requires 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with compensation pro rata ranging from £31,205 to £37,665 per annum, depending on 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, while our ambition is to create irresistible products that meet consumer needs and drive innovation and efficiency.
Main 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 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 a senior manager and interface with brand, CTI, other format teams, supply chain, procurement, TPL, BU, suppliers and 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.
* State‑of‑the‑art laboratory and pilot plant facilities.
* 5‑minute walk to train station serving Liverpool & Chester.
* 20‑minute drive from Liverpool city centre / 30‑minute drive from Chester.
* Disabled parking available.
* Heart of picturesque Port Sunlight village.
* Various site clubs including Book Club, Running, Choir, Pool, Genealogy and more.
* Three catering outlets providing hot and cold food and drinks daily.
* Vending machines and cold water dispensers located throughout the site.
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