R&D Associate - Condoms ( 1 year Contract)

We are Reckitt

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About the role

As an R&D Associate, you will play a key role in delivering product development projects across the Durex R&D portfolio. You will lead end-to-end (E2E) projects from concept through to market launch, or take ownership of a specific workstream within larger, more complex technical projects, depending on business needs. Your work will contribute directly to the development of innovative, consumer-preferred products and support their successful transition into full-scale production and commercial launch.

This role requires the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary project team. You will be responsible for balancing project opportunities, costs, timelines, and technical constraints to deliver high-quality outcomes. Strong organizational, technical, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to take ownership of key project deliverables and drive progress in a dynamic environment.

The role may also involve coaching or line management responsibilities for R&D Assistants or junior R&D Associates. Success in this position requires both theoretical and practical expertise in relevant Durex technologies, such as formulation and process development, as well as a solid understanding of applicable regulatory and legislative requirements.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about innovation, enjoys solving technical challenges, and wants to make a meaningful impact through the development of products trusted by consumers around the world.

Your responsibilities

• Lead and execute product development activities in line with agreed project timelines, proactively identifying and escalating risks or issues to ensure successful delivery. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, both internal and external, to achieve technical milestones and project objectives. 
• Plan, coordinate, and support factory trials, product qualification testing, and validation activities prior to commercialization.
• Ensure product specifications, technical documentation, and development records are accurate, complete, and approved before full-scale production.
• Provide guidance and support to R&D Assistants and junior Associates, including coaching and development opportunities where applicable.
• Apply consumer insights and market understanding to support the design and development of consumer-preferred products.
• Balance product performance, technical robustness, quality requirements, and cost targets throughout the development process.
• Develop and implement effective evaluation methodologies to support sustainable, consumer-relevant product claims.
• Contribute to idea generation, concept development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure intellectual property (IP) considerations are appropriately assessed and addressed during product development. 
• Prepare, review, and communicate technical reports and project updates throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Ensure all development activities comply with applicable regulatory, quality, safety, health, and environmental requirements.

The experience we're looking for

• Minimum of an undergraduate degree in a scientific field relevant to the product technologies within the portfolio.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in either healthcare/FMCG product development or in the medical‑device industry, with focus on design control, risk management, or quality management.
• Experience in line management is preferred but not essential.
  
  • Knowledge or experience in the following areas is preferred:
  • ISO 13485 – Quality management systems for medical devices, especially product realisation.
  • ISO 14971 – Risk management for medical devices, or other risk‑management methodologies (e.g., FMEA).
  • BS EN 62366 – Usability engineering for medical devices.
  • Design controls.

The skills for success

• Results-oriented with strong planning, time management, and organizational skills, along with the ability to work independently and take initiative. 
  Experience working within large multinational organizations and complex cross-functional environments. 
  Adaptable and open to change, with the ability to challenge conventional thinking and generate innovative solutions. 
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities. 
• A proactive and entrepreneurial mindset, coupled with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a structured approach to decision-making. 
• Collaborative team player who builds strong working relationships across functions and cultures.
• Pilot plant, scale-up, or industrialization experience is advantageous. 
• Global mindset with the ability to work across functional boundaries and develop a strong understanding of business and commercial objectives.
• Naturally curious, with a desire to explore new ideas, technologies, and opportunities to drive product innovation. 
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while consistently delivering high-quality results and meeting deadlines.

What we offer

Equality