Job Description

Who We Are

Fueled by passion, KAYALI was founded in 2018 by beauty mogul and fragrance fanatic, Mona Kattan. Translating to 'my imagination' in Arabic, KAYALI provides a modern fragrance experience inspired by Mona's rich Middle Eastern heritage and the art of layering scents to help you create your mood; where sharing scents is a ritual and smelling good is both an act of goodwill and self-love. Mona collaborates with some of the world's most renowned perfumers and sources the finest ingredients to create unique juices that are infinitely memorable, long-lasting, and cruelty-free. Each luxurious fragrance is an ode to true craftsmanship and tells a special story, from the addictive notes to the multi-faceted jeweled bottles.

Our Mission

To make everyone feel like the diamond they are! To build a global community of fragrance lovers through the power of scent and by providing them with the most innovative & luxurious fragrances, education and sharing our Middle Eastern fragrance rituals with the world.

Summary

The Formulation Expert will support product development by evaluating and guiding formulation proposals from subcontractors, with a strong focus on quality, performance, sensorial attributes, and brand alignment. They will also supervise stability and compatibility testing, ensuring product integrity and compliance throughout development.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

Technical Expertise in Formulation

Strong knowledge of fragrance and cosmetic formulation, with an understanding of both raw materials and finished product behaviour Experience with various categories (e.g., fragrance, skincare, body care, makeup, etc.) Understanding of clean beauty standards, natural origin ingredients, and luxury sensorial benchmarks
Product Evaluation & Sensory Analysis

Ability to critically assess formulation proposals from external labs Expertise in evaluating texture, fragrance, absorption, and finish in line with brand expectations Familiarity with benchmarking products and articulating feedback to subcontractors
Stability & Compatibility Testing

Experience in planning, overseeing, and interpreting stability and compatibility tests Familiarity with packaging interaction, shelf-life prediction, and storage condition implications Knowledge of analytical testing methods and lab equipment (pH, viscosity, centrifugation, etc.)
Regulatory & Safety Awareness

Basic understanding of cosmetic regulatory requirements (EU, US, and global) Awareness of claims substantiation and ingredient restrictions Familiarity with safety assessments and toxicological reviews
Quality Management Systems (QMS) & Documentation

Knowledge of Quality Management Systems (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 22716, GMP, ICH guidelines) relevant to cosmetic product development and manufacturing Ability to review and maintain technical documentation, including product specs, batch records, test reports, and certificates of analysis
Project Management & Communication

Ability to collaborate with subcontractors, internal teams (marketing, packaging, supply chain), and external consultants Strong project management skills: timelines, documentation, and follow-up Clear scientific communication, both verbal and written

Requirements

Degree in Cosmetic Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field Minimum 3-5 years of experience in formulation or product development, ideally with exposure to luxury brands or beauty startups Experience working with external laboratories or contract manufacturers is a strong plus

Benefits

Premium Medical/Dental/Vision coverage Find Your Magic Days Volunteer Day Professional Development Days Birthday leave Egg Freezing Benefits Employee discounts on Kayali products * Products gifting