Director of Manufacturing Services

At HCT by kdc/one, we’re passionate about creating innovative, sustainable beauty packaging solutions for some of the world’s most iconic brands. We are currently looking for a talented individual to join our team—someone who brings experience, drive, and a collaborative spirit to the table. This opportunity is open at either the Manager or Director level, depending on the candidate’s background and experience.

The Role at a Glance

This position is responsible for the hands-on management of daily activities related to the manufacturing and quality assurance of primary cosmetic packaging components and downstream products. The role involves interacting with and monitoring both our directly owned and third-party cosmetic packaging manufacturers (Manufacturing Partners), ensuring the quality of their products. The professional in this role will uphold processes and procedures and will be expected to enforce and enhance protocols in accordance with global regulatory requirements and HCT Group's quality standards and expectations.

The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of business and compliance priorities and will proactively take initiative with minimal supervision. They will also demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices, ensuring that all Manufacturing Partners align with HCT's environmental standards and corporate social responsibility goals.

Primary Duties - Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs

• Identify and qualify new Manufacturing Partners, negotiating terms and ensuring alignment with company standards for quality, cost, and delivery timelines.
• Regularly review and monitor Manufacturing Partners’ performance to maintain high standards and promptly address issues.
• Ensure that Manufacturing Partners comply with all regulatory requirements for their products.
• Establish continuous quality and process improvement programs at Manufacturing Partners’ sites.
• Initiate and/or track root cause analysis for continuous improvement, ensuring follow-up actions are taken and effectively implemented.
• Manage all certificates of analysis, incoming and outgoing AQL inspection reports, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and any required testing during development and production, including stability and compatibility assessments.
• Build long-term relationships with Manufacturing Partners and ensure the company’s standards are embedded into their operational systems.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders—including Innovation, Design, Packaging Engineering, Product Development, Sourcing, Production Quality Engineering, Quality Assurance, Logistics, and Sales & Project Management—to support cross-functional initiatives.
• Coordinate with Sales & Project Management to assist with customer communications when needed.
• Communicate manufacturing and quality requirements and resolutions with Manufacturing Partners.
• Identify and qualify Manufacturing Partners who demonstrate sustainable practices, such as energy reduction, waste minimization, and responsible sourcing.
• Support the integration of environmentally friendly materials and sustainable production methods into cosmetic packaging.
• Track and analyze environmental performance data from partners and recommend improvements to meet HCT sustainability goals.
• Promote ongoing environmental improvements, including water conservation, recycling programs, and energy efficiency initiatives.
• Ensure all Manufacturing Partners comply with environmental regulations and pursue relevant sustainability certifications.
• Collaborate across departments to drive internal sustainability efforts and integrate eco-conscious practices throughout the product lifecycle.

What We’re Looking For in You

• Over 5 years of experience in manufacturing, quality assurance, quality systems, or new product development within a regulated environment, focusing on manufacturing and quality compliance.
• Experience and understanding of the following regulations is required: Cosmetic Regulations (Labeling Regulations for Cosmetics), 21 CFR 210, 21 CFR 211 and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs).
• Familiarity with sustainability standards, environmental compliance, and life cycle assessments (LCAs) in a manufacturing context is highly desirable.
• Passion for sustainable innovation within the cosmetics and packaging industry.
• Beauty and Make-up distribution experience is preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively present to all levels of an organization internally and externally and proactively work and cooperate with other departments, suppliers and customers.
• Demonstrated success with being results and proactive solution driven, with strong ability to think critically to overcome potential business hurdles to complete tasks.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Biology or related science/technical field or an equivalent combination of education and work experience preferred.

Why You’ll Love Working at HCT by kdc/one

At HCT by kdc/one, we believe in taking care of our people just as well as we care for our clients. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and personal goals. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

• Hybrid Flexibility: Work-life balance is important to us. Enjoy the best of both worlds with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote each week.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Multiple medical, dental, and vision plan options with low out-of-pocket costs and clear, upfront pricing.
• Robust Life & Disability Coverage: Company-paid basic life insurance and income protection when you need it most.
• Voluntary Perks: Get peace of mind with options like identity theft protection, pet care reimbursement, critical illness coverage, and more.
• Mental Health & Wellness Support: Access resources like the Calm app, 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, and virtual counseling.
• Legal & Financial Guidance: Protect what matters with legal insurance and financial wellness tools.
• Fun Extras: Participate in employee raffles, team outings, and a supportive, innovative work culture.

Whether you're advancing your career or seeking an inclusive and rewarding place to grow, HCT offers the tools and support to help you thrive.