The Future of Beauty in a Modern World

When I was at school no one ever asked me if I’d thought of going into the beauty industry. I don’t think many people realise how big the beauty industry actually is. Our industry is not just about creating frivolous products, but providing careers for people of all social andeducational backgrounds, and it tends to be recession-proof.

This is why we are currently forming the ‘Get Into’ program with The Princes Trust. We want to explain to young people about the many career opportunities within the beauty industry, from people with a science background who work on product development; to thoseentering on a department store counter, right through to those running or owning a company.

Recently I listened to Jo Malone being interviewed for Women’s Hour, on Radio 4. She talked about a new TV show she is doing for the BBC searching for entrepreneurs to work in her fragrance empire. She was raised on a council estate, but now Jo Malone is a multi-millionairedue to her incredible passion and wants to give something back to the industry.

The beauty industry is about individuals being successful and providing products that make other’s feel good about themselves, while creating a hugely successful global industry. But you can’t just throw a product out there. Brands need to be marketed effectively and brands that have been the most successful are those that we have generally found for ourselves, or from a friend.

Last week I had tea with Prince Charles, as part of the work I do with The Prince’s Trust. When I handed my identification to the police officers at the entrance a policewoman said: ‘you smell absolutely fantastic,‘ What made me feel good is that (clearly) I smelt nice; that somebody had noticed; and that hopefully I was able to pass on a tip. That is how we operate – word of mouth.

The beauty industry touches most of us at some point every day: whether we apply product to ourselves, or meet somebody that looks good. Our approach on life and self esteem is often determined by our upbringing. Putting a lipstick on isn’t going to change who you are, but it can change how you feel.

The reason I feel good about myself at 46 is because I have worked my way up starting as a junior at an agency and am now CEO of the UK’s largest self tanning brand, St. Tropez. My job has created a life that is very fulfilling, I’ve learnt many skills and met amazing people all over the world, but I’ve also been heavily involved in charity work. This includes tackling Aids in Africa whilst working for Mac cosmetics and now with St. Tropez in helping The Prince’s Trust raise funds to help solve problems for young people.