Securing specialist NPD talent for Tangle Teezer in a fast-paced growth phase

Our recruiters began working with award-winning hair product manufacturer, Tangle Teezer, in 2023. We have supported the business with product and NPD hiring during a period of continued growth. 

This interim placement was so strong that it eventually evolved into a permanent hire for the brand. 

Securing specialist NPD talent for Tangle Teezer in a fast-paced growth phase

The story of Tangle Teezer

Tangle Teezer is a globally recognised challenger brand in the haircare market, known for its innovative products and strong presence across beauty and retail channels. 

As the business continued to expand its product offering, the NPD (New Product Development) function became increasingly critical to delivering a busy roadmap and maintaining momentum in a competitive category. 

Challenge: Finding immediately available NPD talent within a highly specific brief

The business initially required an NPD Manager (12-month FTC) to support an already stretched team. 

Joining an existing team, the brief was highly specific. Tangle Teezer were looking for a candidate who: 

  • Was immediately available  
  • Had FMCG experience without being overly corporate  
  • Had exposure to beauty, haircare or wellbeing  
  • Could operate effectively in a lean, fast-paced environment  
  • Was within budget and able to commute to the office  

This combination of requirements significantly limited the available talent pool, particularly for a fixed-term contract role. They needed a contract recruitment partner who could deliver a variety of candidates at pace. 

Solution: A taregted approach to contract recruitment

Our specialist contract recruiter, Taylor Nash, delivered a targeted search focused on candidates from innovative FMCG, beauty and wellbeing brands who had experience working in agile, hands-on NPD environments. 

The approach included: 

  • Identifying candidates actively seeking FTC or contract roles  
  • Prioritising individuals with experience in lean, fast-paced teams  
  • Delivering a highly qualified shortlist within days  
  • Continuing to supply candidates as the brief evolved  

Taylor ensured she supplied the right range of candidates by: 

  • Expanding the talent pool across adjacent categories such as skincare and wellbeing  
  • Prioritising those with the right mindset for a challenger brand environment  
  • Managing expectations around availability, salary and location  
  • Providing ongoing market insight to guide decision-making  
  • Maintaining strong candidate engagement and preparation  

We also supported the brand with flexibility as the brief evolved, advising on the possibility of transitioning the role into a perm hire. 

Result: An excellent contractor that evolved into a permanent hire

A standout candidate was identified who impressed at every stage of the process. Due to the strength of the hire, Tangle Teezer made the decision to convert the role from a fixed-term contract into a permanent position, securing the candidate long-term.

Candidate Thought Count: 1

Start your talent search with the UK's leading recruitment agency today.

Michael Judkins Customer Experience & Growth Director

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