Why is CEW membership important to you?
I joined CEW approximately 30 years ago and understood its value from the very beginning. CEW is an organization of 10,000 plus members and over 3,000 companies across the entire beauty industry. CEW’s mission is to support the career development of its members which it does exceedingly well. CEW has been a major contributing factor to both my personal and professional development at every level of my career. It provides a forum for like-minded people to come together, learn from one another, support one another (whether friend or competitor), stay current on market trends, and network for business and career opportunities.
Do you have any tips for getting the most out of CEW membership?
My advice for new and existing members is to consistently capitalize on as many of the events, seminars and networking opportunities offered by CEW as possible. You will, undoubtedly, walk away with some piece of knowledge, information or contact that you did not have before. Ask questions, be confident (yet humble), and learn from those who went before you. At the networking events, don’t be shy. Walk up to a stranger, introduce yourself and start a conversation. You’ll be amazed at what you will learn! Also, engage in the website; it’s a wealth of information!
What is the most exciting aspect of your current role?
As the head of Orlandi’s global Fragrance Development department for the past seventeen years, I have had the honor and privilege of working with some of the industry’s greatest and most talented perfumers, evaluators, fragrance developers, marketers and creative teams both here in the U.S and in Europe. I love having the opportunity to observe the internal dynamics of all the various corporations with whom we work. Each one has its own unique DNA. It is very exciting to be a part of new fragrance launches from the beginning stages development. This allows us to be at the forefront of new trends and market shifts. In today’s arena, every company is trying to meet their consumer where he/she is whether it be in the digital space, in print, in-store or all of the above. It’s a new landscape for everyone and together we work to creatively to come up with different ideas, innovations and sampling solutions. My responsibility is then to work with Orlandi’s chemists to deliver the absolute best olfactive rendition of their beautiful new fragrance. It thrills me each and every time to see the finished product of this creative process!
How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
My family is my heart and soul. I married my high school sweetheart and this year we celebrated our 30 year wedding anniversary! We have two grown sons and love spending time with them whenever possible. My husband and I are passionate about travelling and discovering new cities and places both in the U.S. and abroad. I also volunteer with the mentally ill who are the lost voices in our society. I like to hike, bike and practice yoga which helps to nourish the soul.
