Head of Research and Development (Animal Health)

Job Description

Head of Research and Development (Animal Health) DBG Health and Arrovet are wanting to become the leading innovator in the generics veterinary medicine industry, dedicated to enhancing animal health and making it more accessible to the wider community. About DBG Health & Arrovet: DBG Health is a leading independent health, wellness, and beauty company headquartered in Melbourne. With a team of over 1,000 dedicated professionals, we are committed to delivering affordable and innovative solutions that enhance the well-being of our customers. True to its entrepreneurial spirit, DBG Health has established a new animal health business, Arrovet, which is bringing innovative business models and customer value propositions to market in 2025. We are building Australia’s best animal health sales team that is obsessed about customer success and driven to perform at the highest level. About the role: The Head of Research and Development will work in a newly developed Animal Health team. They will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimising formulations for veterinary products and for developing and leading the research and development strategy and operations for new veterinary products and formulations. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, including regulatory experts, and production staff, to ensure the successful development and commercialisation of new products. Role & Responsibilities: Develop and optimise veterinary formulations, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and other related products. Manage external partners to evaluate and improve formulation stability, efficacy, and safety. Work on the development of both new products and the enhancement of existing formulations. Utilise scientific knowledge to identify and address formulation-related challenges and troubleshooting issues that arise during development and production. Analyse data to make informed decisions about formulation adjustments and improvements. Prepare and maintain detailed records of formulation processes, experimental results, and product development activities. Ensure all documentation complies with internal and regulatory standards. Prepare and present reports, data summaries, and scientific papers as required. Communicate findings and recommendations effectively to stakeholders, including internal teams and external partners. Prepare submissions for the APVMA to ensure products are registered cost effectively and time efficiently. Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and scientific advancements to incorporate new techniques and ingredients into formulation strategies. Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements and innovation within the formulation development process. Monitor patent expiry of active ingredients and formulations. Ensure that all formulations adhere to relevant regulations and guidelines, including those set by the APVMA or other regulatory bodies. Prepare and review documentation for regulatory submissions, including product dossiers and technical reports. Identify the optimal regulatory path (time, cost, quality) for products with the APVMA. Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure that developed formulations meet product quality specifications and perform as intended. Implement and maintain quality control procedures to ensure the consistency and reliability of formulations. Manage the quality control release procedures of finished goods to ensure they comply with their license and meet the high standards expected for Arrovet products. Lead and manage formulation development projects from concept through to commercialisation. Develop project timelines, milestones, and budgets, and ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget. Skills & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. is preferred. Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in formulation development, preferably within the veterinary or pharmaceutical industry. Experience with veterinary products or animal health formulations is highly desirable. Strong knowledge of formulation chemistry and principles. Proficiency in analytical techniques. Ability to design and execute experiments, analyse data, and interpret results. Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Strong attention to detail and organisational skills. Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards. Effective communication and teamwork abilities. Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and project requirements. Commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Benefits & perks: At DBG Health, we offer more than just a job – we offer a dynamic and supportive work environment where you can make a real impact. As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders, drive meaningful change, and grow both personally and professionally. Exclusive discounts on our consumer health, wellness and beauty products - including MCo Beauty, E.L.F Cosmetics, Nude by Nature. Chemists Own and many more. Free membership to 28 by Sam Wood - an online program designed to help Aussies get fit at home and live happier, healthier lives. 12 weeks paid parental leave. Access discounted private health insurance through Australian Unity, AIA Health of NIB. We are a values-driven business fostering a supportive and friendly team culture. Enjoy the ability to work autonomously, empowering you to drive your own success. Convenient head office location close to public transport, cafes and restaurants. Opportunity to grow your career across all divisions within DBG Health. Ability to purchase additional leave to provide opportunity for employees to spend more precious time with family, travelling or even study. Explore the option of paying for your vehicle costs through novated leasing. DBG Health is committed to fostering a workplace culture that is safe and accessible for all. We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applications regardless of cultural background, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or neurodiversity. We strive to build a collaborative, inclusive workplace that is representative of the communities we work and live in. Apply For Job #J-18808-Ljbffr