Leadership Changes in Iconic Brands: A New Era Begins
In the ever-evolving landscape of beauty and wellness, significant changes in leadership often signal a fresh approach or strategic shift. Recently, Revlon, a brand deeply entrenched in makeup and personal care, appointed Dana Medema as its new president for North America. Medema steps into this pivotal role following her tenure at Philips, bringing a wealth of experience to the table. She takes the reins from Geralyn Breig, who has been steering the company through a challenging period since its emergence from bankruptcy earlier this year. Medema’s appointment is not just a transition in leadership; it symbolizes the brand’s commitment to a revitalized vision and its intention to thrive amid competitive pressures in the beauty industry.
In another notable move, Sol de Janeiro, the renowned body care and fragrance brand, has welcomed Elaine Paik as its new Chief Financial Officer. Paik arrives with an impressive background, having previously held significant financial roles at industry giants including Impossible Foods and Juul Labs. Her extensive experience positions her well to navigate the financial complexities that come with leading a billion-dollar brand. Alongside Paik, Laurie Lovett has been named the Chief People and Impact Officer, where she will spearhead initiatives related to human resources, social impact, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Lovett’s background at companies like Nielsen and Verisk makes her a valuable addition, reflecting Sol de Janeiro’s dedication to a holistic approach to business that encompasses both profitability and societal impact.
Glossier, known for its modern take on beauty through social media engagement, has also made a significant creative appointment with Maria Vu stepping in as the new Creative Director. Vu brings a rich tapestry of experience from her previous roles at Nike, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and Calvin Klein, where she held high-profile creative positions. Her vision is expected to enhance Glossier’s branding and marketing initiatives, aligning them with contemporary trends and consumer expectations. This strategic move illustrates Glossier’s commitment to innovation and aesthetic appeal, crucial in maintaining its status as a go-to brand for beauty enthusiasts.
Kelli Bartlett has been appointed as the head of education and experience at Remedy Place, a social wellness club that is making waves with its approach to holistic health and well-being. Drawing from her experience at The Skin Clique, Bartlett will be responsible for curating exceptional guest experiences across the club’s locations in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles. Her role is a crucial one, especially for a brand designed to resonate with an increasingly wellness-focused clientele. By enhancing the educational aspect of the wellness journey, Remedy Place aims to create an immersive environment that prioritizes both health and social connection.
In the realm of creative direction, Tom Holland’s non-alcoholic beer brand, Bero, has appointed Jacopo Maria Cinti as its creative director. Cinti’s previous collaborations with illustrious brands like Goop and Cartier highlight his ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. His role will be instrumental in shaping Bero’s brand identity and visual storytelling, preparing it to make a significant mark in a market that’s steadily embracing alcohol-free options. The appointment showcases a broader trend of brands looking to connect with consumers through innovative and engaging marketing strategies.
Lastly, K18 has appointed Audrey Dorfman as its new chief marketing officer. Known for her successful track record at L’Oréal and her recent leadership role in marketing at CeraVe, Dorfman is poised to drive K18’s brand strategy forward. Meanwhile, Bruno Jovanovic has joined Dsm-Firmenich as a principal perfumer, bringing a rich portfolio of fragrance experiences that include Carolina Herrera and Calvin Klein. Additionally, Tina Shim steps in as the senior vice president of marketing and commercialization for the Japanese wellness brand Apothékary. These appointments collectively signify a broader movement in the beauty industry towards innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to social responsibility, as brands continue to adapt to a dynamic consumer landscape.