Oral Care Technical Specialist in Ashford

Working under the guidance of the Laboratory Manager, the Oral Care Technical Specialist will undertake improvement projects across flavour oil compounding and oral care applications. These projects can be new toothpaste base development, ingredient testing in oral care formulations, process improvements, support with customer technical issues, and strategic projects impacting the fabric of the laboratory, procedures, and new equipment.

The technical specialist should also keep up to date with market launches and published IP in the oral care category to apply knowledge to innovation projects. During times of absence of the Laboratory Manager, the Technical Specialist should provide backup including coordination of workflow and shipping of samples to customers.

You Will:

• Collaborate with Science & Technology (S&T) and internal teams to support innovation and product improvement initiatives and build a priority list of projects and stakeholder requirements.
• Research market and internal base formulations to create and maintain a portfolio of relevant internal references.
• Undertake formulation trials to test new bases and establish taste profile with flavourists and shelf life via stability testing.
• Work with external suppliers and industry bodies to keep up to date with packaging innovations and perform internal studies to understand the benefits and limitations of new packaging types.
• Work closely with raw material suppliers to identify new ingredients relevant to the Oral Care market.
• Monitor patent activity to identify new IP around relevant Oral Care innovations.
• Provide technical support and share Oral Care expertise with internal stakeholders.
• Conduct background research or testing activities to meet project and laboratory requirements and drive continual improvement.
• Work with the Laboratory Manager to assess equipment performance, plan maintenance, and identify upgrade needs.
• Support continuous improvement of laboratory facilities, collaborating with QA, EHS, and Engineering on maintenance and enhancement projects.
• Share technical knowledge and best practice with the wider Oral Care community and Givaudan global laboratory network.
• Provide technical input for internal or customer presentations.
• Remain current with all relevant EHS, QS, and regulatory requirements and ensure that the laboratory practices comply accordingly.
• Prepare and maintain documentation and contribute to audits and internal quality review actions, especially where they relate to new equipment or procedures.

Qualifications:

• Degree or higher education qualification in a lab-based discipline, preferably chemistry, perfumery, or related science or equivalent relevant laboratory experience.
• 4+ years experience in a laboratory-based role, preferably within the flavours, fragrances, or a related industry.
• Product development experience in the cosmetics or household FMCG sector.
• Technical knowledge in Fragrance, Flavour or Oral Care formulations, ingredients, packaging, and product performance.
• Broader knowledge of business strategy and the ability to work with the Laboratory Manager or team leader to apply growing understanding of business and customer impact.
• Strong knowledge of EHS and quality standards within a laboratory function, safe chemical handling, ISO, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
• Ability to understand and process regulatory documentation e.g. relating to cosmetics.
• Accurate record keeping, excellent organisation, and attention to detail, especially in areas relevant for internal and external audits and KPI calculations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and other digital systems used for laboratory workflow (e.g., SAP) and tracking of KPI's.
• Demonstrate a high level of autonomy and effective decision making.

Benefits:

• Attractive package with benefits, including a profit sharing plan.
• Pension scheme, private medical insurance.
• UK Life Assurance Plan.
• Givaudan Discount Club.
• Excellent opportunities for progressive learning and development.

We value the different perspectives that come from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Everyone — regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, culture, religion, or any personal circumstances — is warmly welcomed at Givaudan, a place where we all love to be and grow.