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NPD Innovation Associate

SoGal Ventures

Amsterdam
Full-time
2-5 years experience
Hybrid

Work Arrangement

Office Days per Week: 4 days

Key Skills

NPD innovation
Product conceptualization
Market trends
Consumer research
Trend forecasting
Cosmetic ingredients
Formulation briefs
Regulatory requirements
Packaging innovation
Project management
Cross-functional collaboration
Commercialization
Product positioning
Claims strategy
Supply chain management

Job Description

About The Role We are looking for a strategic and consumer-first NPD Innovation Associate to shape the future innovation pipeline by identifying emerging consumer needs, market trends, and whitespace opportunities. The role will drive innovation strategy, product conceptualization, and commercialization by partnering closely with Brand, Packaging, Supply Chain, Regulatory, and external partners (Contract Manufacturers & R&D) to deliver differentiated, consumer-led products. Preferred Skills & Know-how Understanding of cosmetic ingredients, actives & formulations Ability to understand formulation briefs and work with R&D/formulator team of contract manufacturers Basic understanding of clinical/efficacy claims and supporting evidence Working knowledge of India, US & UK cosmetic regulatory requirements Understanding of product claims, ingredient restrictions, labelling and documentation Experience coordinating with R&D, contract manufacturers, packaging and regulatory teams Ability to manage NPD timelines, samples, iterations and launches Beauty/personal-care category exposure Key Responsibilities Assist in defining and driving the NPD innovation roadmap aligned with brand vision, consumer insights, and business priorities. Assist to identify whitespace opportunities through consumer research, trend forecasting, competitive benchmarking, and global innovation scouting. Help in product ideation, concept creation, positioning, claims strategy, and innovation storytelling Translate insights into commercially viable product opportunities with strong consumer and brand relevance. Drive cross-functional execution from concept approval to market launch, ensuring timelines, quality, and launch readiness. Collaborate with Formulation, Packaging, Supply Chain, Regulatory, Finance, and external partners to deliver innovative products at scale. Champion packaging innovation, new formats, sustainable solutions, and differentiated consumer experiences. Build business cases, portfolio recommendations, and innovation strategies based on commercial potential and market attractiveness. Track industry trends, disruptive technologies, and emerging ingredients to strengthen the long-term innovation pipeline. Experience Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Pharmaceuticals, Chemistry, Cosmetic Science or a related field. 2 to 5 years of experience in Innovation, Product Management, or NPD within Beauty, Personal Care, or FMCG. Demonstrated success in building innovation pipelines and launching consumer-centric products. What You Get A Culture-First Brand: Be part of a vibrant, inclusive environment that places a massive emphasis on innovative, industry-leading marketing efforts. Marketing isn't just a department here; it's the heartbeat of the brand. Ownership & Mentorship: Enjoy true autonomy and ownership over your campaigns and community initiatives, paired with dedicated mentorship from senior leadership to accelerate your career growth. Global Exposure: Opportunities for rapid career progression in a fast-paced, global startup environment. Team Perks: Generous employee discounts, indē wild goodies, and first access to all new product launches. Other Details Office location: Lower Parel, Mumbai Working days: Monday to Friday Working from office: 4 days in office (3 days set, 1 flexible, 1 WFH) If this sounds like you – please share your updated resume on [email protected].

Core Responsibilities

The NPD Innovation Associate will drive the innovation roadmap by identifying market trends and whitespace opportunities to develop consumer-led products. They will manage cross-functional execution from concept to launch, collaborating with R&D, supply chain, and regulatory teams.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Pharmaceuticals, Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or a related field. They should have 2 to 5 years of experience in innovation or product management within the beauty or FMCG sectors.

Benefits

  • Employee discounts
  • Indē wild goodies
  • First access to new product launches
  • Mentorship from senior leadership

About SoGal Ventures

Industry: Venture Capital and Private Equity Principals

Company size: 2-10 employees

SoGal Ventures is a women-led, next-gen venture capital firm investing in very early startups in North America and Asia. We focus on world-class women & diverse entrepreneurs building billion-dollar businesses that change how we live, work, and stay healthy.

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