Lucia Perdomo-Ruehlemann is making headlines as she steps down from her position as president of Saie, a rising star in the beauty industry. Having joined the brand in 2022, her departure marks a significant transition for both her and the company. In an email to the staff, she expressed gratitude for the journey she shared with her team and partners, stating, “It has been an honor to help build this brand alongside such an extraordinary team, partners and community.” While she’ll no longer oversee daily operations starting September 1, 2025, Perdomo-Ruehlemann plans to stay involved as an advisor, supporting Saie as it ventures into its next growth phase.
Confirmation of her resignation came from both Saie and Perdomo-Ruehlemann to major industry outlet WWD, highlighting the impact of her presence on the brand. Her experience as the global brand president for Drunk Elephant, along with her tenures at prestigious firms like LVMH and Estée Lauder, showcases a career rich with expertise. Saie has garnered attention for its unique approach to beauty, rooted in a commitment to clean ingredients, community engagement, and sustainable practices, all under her leadership.
Challenges in the makeup sector have not deterred Saie from thriving. The brand has successfully positioned itself among beauty enthusiasts, emphasizing high-quality, environmentally friendly products that resonate with contemporary consumers. Despite headwinds affecting many competitors, Saie’s ethos centering on ‘clean’ beauty and social responsibility fuels its ongoing success. The company’s refreshing transparency and focus on responsible practices have helped it gain a distinct foothold in a saturated market.
Saie’s founder and CEO, Laney Crowell, previously expressed her confidence in Perdomo-Ruehlemann’s abilities when she was recruited to lead the brand. Crowell described her as embodying the “Saie way,” which reflects the thoughtful and strategic approach the brand takes in defining its identity. The emphasis on intelligent growth and an intuitive understanding of market trends has been integral to Saie’s development under Perdomo-Ruehlemann’s stewardship.
As Saie prepares for this transition, it’s clear that both the brand and its community of consumers have much to look forward to. Perdomo-Ruehlemann’s decision to step back allows room for fresh ideas while her advisory role keeps her connected to the brand’s mission. Her leadership has left an indelible mark, one that promotes a continued dedication to clean formulas and social causes.
Looking ahead, Saie stands poised for exciting new chapters. With a solid footing in values-centered branding and community engagement, the company is set to navigate the ever-evolving beauty landscape. While changes in leadership can often signal uncertainty, Saie’s commitment to its core principles paired with strategic growth initiatives hint at a promising future, continuing to prioritize what truly matters to its customers and community.