Formula Chemist

The Body Shop

When Anita Roddick founded The Body Shop in 1976, she had a vision. Business as a force for good – that’s us. Over 40 years later, we’re proud to be pioneering cruelty-free beauty every step of the way. We’re the original ethical beauty brand. We’ve got a thing for empowering people and enriching our planet. We’re all about keeping it real, in every way possible. Our activist roots remain a huge part of everything we do, from our iconic window posters to our vegetarian products to our infamous campaigns. We’re never afraid to stand up and speak the truth. We like to do things a little differently around here. 

The Body Shop is committed to generating positive economic, social and environmental impact. We’re fighting for what we believe in now more than ever. No holding back. Breaking the mould has always come naturally to us, and we need someone who’s not afraid to mix things up. 

Your role in a nutshell

Do you have hands-on formulation experience, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative mindset to drive continuous improvement and ensure product excellence?

We are seeking a detail-oriented and technically skilled Cosmetic Formula Chemist on a 12 month Fixed Term contract to support the maintenance and optimization of our existing product portfolio across skincare, haircare, and bath & body categories. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the continued success of our iconic products by leading reformulation, troubleshooting, compliance updates, and cost-saving initiatives. You will also contribute to VRE projects through open innovation, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality products that reflect The Body Shop’s values and meet evolving consumer expectations. 

More about the role

  - Lead formulation projects with external partners from brief to launch, ensuring safety, performance, and brand alignment.

  - Brief external partners (vendors, labs, manufacturers, academia) on formulation requirements and scope.

  - Evaluate sample sensoriality, conformity and ensure timely feedback and iteration.

  - Support external partners as required to successful industrialization and scale-up

  - Ensure cohesive partnership with all parties in managing timelines, risks, and backup plans to secure launch readiness. Ensure timely execution and documentation of all required tests (stability, safety, challenge, etc.).

  - Efficiently use available tools and systems to maintain accurate records and official documentation across development phases in a timely manner.

  - Conduct technical data analysis to support risk assessments and business decisions.

  - Provide expert input on formulation-related issues and propose corrective actions.

  - Build relationships with internal teams (Brand, Packaging, Safety, Procurement, etc.) and external partners.

  - Ensure smooth flow of information and samples across all stakeholders.

  - Represent R&D in cross-functional meetings and project reviews.

  - Propose processes improvements where applicable

What we look for

Technical Expertise

Deep knowledge of cosmetic formulation and product development processes; Strong understanding of safety, stability, and regulatory testing

Project & Process Management

Skilled in managing multiple projects with tight timelines and cross-functional coordination; Ability to assess risks, plan contingencies, and ensure launch readiness; 

Competent in using development tools like MS Project, Power BI.

Analytical & Problem Solving

Sharp analytical thinking for evaluating samples, test results, and technical data; Solution-oriented mindset for troubleshooting formulation and production issues

Communication & Collaboration

Excellent written and verbal communication for internal and external stakeholder engagement; Strong interpersonal skills to build partnerships with vendors, labs, and cross-functional teams

Innovation & Creativity

Passion for exploring new formats, technologies, and consumer-driven solutions; 

Qualifications and Experience- 

Benefits

As well as a competitive salary, here are just a few of the rewards that you can look forward to if you join us: a 6% non-contributory pension plan, 23 days holiday, 50% staff discount and access to product sample sales, access to Perks at Work, our online shopping channel with exclusive deals & discounts, as well as LOVE money to spend on your wellbeing and personal development.