From Classroom to Corporate: The Journey of Stephanie Headley
Before embarking on her remarkable journey in the beauty industry, Stephanie Headley had a solid foundation as a math teacher. In 2002, she began her career at Procter & Gamble (P&G) as an intern, but her path was far from linear. Growing up in Kilmarnock, Virginia, she attended the University of Richmond, where she majored in mathematics and secondary education, aspiring to inspire high school students in the same way she had been inspired. However, life had different plans. After a brief stint in manufacturing operations at Philip Morris, she obtained her MBA, paving the way for her entry into the world of consumer goods at P&G.
Despite her departure from education, Headley’s passion for STEM and the invaluable lessons from her teaching days stayed with her. She emphasizes that sharing ideas, effective communication, and building confidence in others are skills she still employs as Senior Vice President of Global Olay and North American Skin Care at P&G Beauty. Headley has been able to translate her teaching experience into a leadership approach that fosters growth and innovation within her team, making her a powerful force in her industry.
Her journey at P&G began with products like Febreze and home care before she shifted to the beauty sector, starting with Herbal Essences in the 2010s. As she advanced to the Olay brand, she discovered a fitting match for her leadership aspirations, even if she initially had reservations. Growing up in a small community meant she had little awareness of major brands or the potential career paths available within them. Yet, her childhood passion for leadership has fueled her career, allowing her to ascend to a prominent role in a global organization.
Under Headley’s guidance, Olay has made significant strides, introducing groundbreaking products that resonate with consumers. In 2023, the brand launched its skin-boosting Super Serum, which contains five active ingredients known for their efficiency, such as niacinamide and vitamin C. This product not only marked a milestone for the brand but also led to the formation of a new franchise that includes an eye serum and facial moisturizer. Last year’s introduction of Cleansing Melts, innovative dissolving cleanser squares, generated buzz and secured Olay a top position among new facial cleansers in mass skincare.
Headley acknowledges that today’s consumers have a plethora of choices in beauty and skincare products, making it crucial for Olay to remain true to its identity. She highlights the importance of delivering scientifically proven innovations that are both effective and accessible. This commitment to quality coupled with a keen understanding of consumer needs differentiates Olay in a crowded marketplace. The hard work of her team, which she emphasizes often, is crucial for achieving these ambitious goals.
As a leader, Headley is passionate about empowering women in the workplace. She notes that many women hesitate to fully embrace their successes, often feeling the need to possess every credential or piece of data before speaking up. Her philosophy is to "lean into the success" — a mindset that encourages individuals to believe in their capability to effect change, even when they feel less experienced. By embodying this principle, Headley not only motivates her team members but also creates a ripple effect of empowerment within the organization, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and innovate.
Through her unique background as a former teacher and her ascent in the corporate world, Stephanie Headley exemplifies the power of adaptability and belief in oneself. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder that diverse experiences can lead to remarkable opportunities, especially when combined with a commitment to leadership, innovation, and empowerment. As she continues to make significant strides at Olay and beyond, her journey underscores the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a culture of belonging in any organization.