Description

Kenvue is currently recruiting for a:

Associate Director, R&D Microbiology

What we do

At Kenvue , we realize the extraordinary power of everyday care. Built on over a century of heritage and rooted in science, we're the house of iconic brands - including NEUTROGENA®, AVEENO®, TYLENOL®, LISTERINE®, JOHNSON'S® and BAND-AID® that you already know and love. Science is our passion; care is our talent.

Who We Are

Our global team is ~ 22,000 brilliant people with a workplace culture where every voice matters, and every contribution is appreciated. We are passionate about insights, innovation and committed to delivering the best products to our customers. With expertise and empathy, being a Kenvuer means having the power to impact millions of people every day. We put people first, care fiercely, earn trust with science and solve with courage - and have brilliant opportunities waiting for you! Join us in shaping our future-and yours. For more information , click here .

Role reports to:
Head of Global R&D Analytical & Micro

Location:
North America, United States, New Jersey, Summit

Work Location:
Hybrid

What you will do

The Associate Director, R&D Microbiology will provide scientific direction and leadership for Kenvue's global microbiology research and development organization. This individual will act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) responsible for managing research projects, ensuring project timelines are met, and leading a team of microbiologists that will deliver R&D support for product development, product renovation and base business projects across consumer health categories. The Associate Director will be involved in developing and executing the global strategy for Microbiology processes and will also lead the Global Microbiology Community of Practice. This role involves coordinating with external contract laboratories, and overseeing department budgets and equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of microbiologists in the research and development department to deliver high-quality, on-time project support.
• Provide scientific direction and leadership for product development projects, including formulation preservation, method development, and microbial risk assessments.
• Define & execute the microbiology R&D strategy aligned with business priorities and innovation pipelines.
• Lead the Global Microbiology Community of Practice to harmonize methods, share best practices, and strengthen global capability.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive product development initiatives and market delivery.
• Stay current on industry trends and advancements in microbiology research, integrating new technologies into research approaches and testing capabilities.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on microbiology-related issues
• Represent R&D Microbiology during internal and external regulatory inspections.
• Maintain company policies, procedures, and departmental budget.
• Lead and direct research projects to identify opportunities for improvement and achieve business goals
• Ensure project timelines, milestones, and deliverables are met.

What we are looking for

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Microbiology or related science with at least 8-10 years of experience in microbiology research and development in a consumer products environment. Ph.D. in Microbiology with relevant experience preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in microbiology operations, including preservation strategies, testing, and sterilization technologies.
• Strong understanding and application of global regulatory requirements in microbiology and knowledge of GMPs, ICH, global pharmacopoeia, and relevant FDA/cGMP guidelines.
• Expertise in preservation strategy for consumer health products
• Proven track record of successful talent development and ability to lead scientific teams
• Experience in managing research projects and teams
• Experience representing the laboratory for internal and external audits.
• Experience leading cGMP Operations for Microbiology and laboratory management experience in a BSL-2 lab.

Desired Qualifications

• Excellent scientific communication, interpersonal, and collaborative skills.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and operate effectively in a cross-functional, global matrixed environment.
• Ability to think creatively, problem-solve, and drive innovation in a fast-paced environment
• Strong expertise across a wide variety of consumer product forms including cosmetics, OTC drugs, devices, nutritional, and commodity products.
• Experience in the development and implementing Quality System SOP procedures for Microbiology
• Expertise in preservation strategies, rapid micro testing, and sterilization technologies
• Proven experience establishing external scientific collaborations and academic partnerships.

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What's in it for you

Annual base salary for new hires in this position ranges:

$166,600.00 - $235,200.00

This takes into account a number of factors including work location, the candidate's skills, experience, education level & other job-related factors.

• Competitive Benefit Package*
• Paid Company Holidays, Paid Vacation, Volunteer Time & More!
• Learning & Development Opportunities
• Kenvuer Impact Networks
• This list could vary based on location/region

*Note: Total Rewards at Kenvue include salary, bonus (if applicable) and benefits. Your Talent Access Partner will be able to share more about our total rewards offerings and the specific salary range for the relevant location(s) during the recruitment & hiring process.

Kenvue is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

If you are an individual with a disability, please check our Disability Assistance page for information on how to request an accommodation.