Anne Marie Kollias, U.S. Director of Sales and Marketing for Wahl Professional
My main goals with the company are: To continue Wahl’s strong tradition of innovation, quality and trust while planning for the future of our people, products and customers.
Leadership means: Defining a plan for success, then creating and improving the process to achieve that success.
In five years I see the hair industry: Continuing to be relationship-driven; I can’t imagine any technology that could possibly replace the connection and relationship between licensed professionals and their guests. What I see continuing to evolve rapidly are the global communities of hair professionals created through social media.
I get inspired by: Seeing people grow both professionally and personally; fashion and cosmetic trends; and finely crafted clothing and furniture.
My favorite way to unwind is: My family and I are huge sports fans so whenever we can go to (or just watch) a game together and have a good meal, I consider treasured times.
My top vacation destination is: Cabo, Miami, Malibu, or anywhere with a sandy beach— probably because I live in Illinois!
When I think of beauty, I think of: Emotion. If something is beautiful to me, it’s because it evokes an emotion, whether it be through a kind gesture, a beautifully tailored garment or the craftsmanship of a precision fade.
I work in professional beauty because: Every day I get to work with so many different types of people, from artists to engineers to distributors to sales consultants—there is never a dull moment. I love the excitement surrounding a new product launch, hair show, education event, or new technology.
Mary Kennebeck, Director of International Sales for Eufora
My main goals with the company are: Creating a global expansion plan with a high-touch local approach; keeping the “real” in beauty and business relationships; branding together with like-minded partners to spread the unique Eufora boutique message; and connecting with beauty professionals around the world.
Leadership means: Showing up in every moment and creating meaningful and lasting relationships, as well as getting to the heart and soul of what others want and helping them to be successful in every way possible.
In five years I see the hair industry: Being a mix of dedicated brands still standing and new brands entering the market.
I get inspired by: New experiences, meeting new people and engaging in conversations that uncover possibilities, ignite creative ideas and drive my passion to truly inspire clients or partners to market—that’s when big things happen.
My favorite way to unwind is: Music. It’s my magic, whether listening to my fave playlist, a personal concert in my car or jamming at 30,000 feet in the air.
My top vacation destination is: As a Pisces, there’s only one place to go: a crystal-clear, turquoise beach with white sand and fancy cocktails.
When I think of beauty, I think of: Beauty from the inside out.
I work in professional beauty because: It offers the most creative career opportunities imaginable.
Cindy Orr, Vice President and General Manager of Celeb Luxury
My main goals with the company are: Staying ahead of the curve and raising the bar for the professional beauty industry.
Leadership means: Building a team where everyone plays an integral part in our vision; giving employees opportunities to grow within their position; building trust with honesty, clear communication and willingness to discuss ideas as
a team.
In five years I see the hair industry: Continuing to change with e-commerce. Safety and sustainability will be the standard for new products driven by consumer expectations.
I get inspired by: Learning new skills and taking on new challenges.
My favorite way to unwind is: Cooking for friends and family.
My top vacation destination is: Hawaii—it has sun and sand!
When I think of beauty, I think of: A sense of empowerment and confidence for each individual.
[Images: Courtesy of manufacturers]
