Senior Evaluator Perfume Industry (United Arab Emirates) Sharjah

Requirements

Requires a degree in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, or a related field with 5-7+ years of experience in fragrance evaluation. Must possess advanced sensory skills and a deep understanding of IFRA and GCC regulatory frameworks.

Job Summary

Overview
Were seeking a seasoned Senior Evaluator to lead olfactive evaluation, guide fragrance development, and partner with cross-functional teams to deliver winning scents for the Middle East and global markets. This role requires deep expertise in raw materials, market trends, and consumer preferences, with a strong track record of launching successful perfumes. Based in Sharjah, you will collaborate closely with perfumers, R&D, marketing, and commercial teams to shape briefs, refine submissions, and ensure quality and consistency from concept to launch.
Key Responsibilities
Lead Olfactive Evaluation
Evaluate perfume submissions across fine fragrance, niche, and lifestyle categories, ensuring alignment with briefs and brand DNA.
Provide structured, actionable feedback to perfumers on construction, balance, performance, and differentiation.
Build and maintain detailed olfactive benchmarks and sensory standards.
Drive Project Excellence
Translate marketing/commercial briefs into clear olfactive targets and performance criteria (top/mid/base goals, longevity, sillage, bloom, dry-down).
Manage evaluation timelines, prioritize projects, and ensure on-time delivery of winning modifications.
Oversee controlled testing protocols (blind panels, wear tests, climate-relevant tests) and synthesize results for decision-making.
Market & Consumer Insight
Monitor regional and global trends, competitor launches, and top sellers; maintain a trend library relevant to GCC/MENA.
Conduct gap analyses and opportunity mapping; propose olfactive directions backed by consumer insights and data.
Partner with marketing to craft compelling fragrance narratives and claims aligned with regulatory standards.
Technical & Quality Leadership
Assess raw material quality, substitution risks, and stability; collaborate with compounding and QC on batch consistency.
Ensure compliance with IFRA, local regulations (UAE/GCC), and customer-specific standards.
Guide performance testing across substrates (skin, blotter, fabric) and varying climate conditions typical of the UAE.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with perfumers, R&D, applications, regulatory, and sales to optimize submissions and secure wins.
Support key client presentations, olfactive workshops, and category reviews; act as the expert voice in fragrance selection.
Mentor junior evaluators and sensory panels; elevate evaluation rigor and best practices.
Required Qualifications
Bachelors or Masters in Chemistry, Cosmetic Science, Fragrance & Flavor Technology, or related field.
5/ 7+ years of experience in fragrance evaluation within a perfume house or brand, with multiple market launches.
Proven expertise in fine fragrance
Advanced sensory skills: calibrated nose, strong descriptor vocabulary, and ability to deconstruct blends.
Solid knowledge of IFRA guidelines, EU/UAE/GCC regulatory frameworks, and stability/performance testing methodologies.
Experience leading cross-functional projects and presenting to clients or senior stakeholders.
Preferred Skills
Fluency in English, French is a plus
Strong data literacy (panel analytics, consumer testing insights).
Familiarity with GC-MS insights and raw material sourcing/quality.
Storytelling and copy support for fragrance concepts.
Experience with niche/indie brands and luxury segment positioning.

Responsibilities

Lead the olfactive evaluation of perfume submissions to ensure alignment with brand DNA and commercial briefs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to guide fragrance development and ensure quality from concept to launch.

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