Meet the Individuals Behind Cosmoprof, Pravana and Schwarzkopf Professional US

Feb 11th, 2019

Getting to know the individuals behind the industry's leading brands.

Liza Rapay, Head of North American Marketing, Cosmoprof

My main goals with the company are: To establish a trusting relationship with the exhibiting brands so that we continue to engage with them 365 days a year, not just on the days of the trade show. Of course, for the first year, I want to ensure the continuity and success of Cosmoprof North America while building our strategy for the future.

I get inspired by: I find that when I go back to the place I grew up in the Philippines, I always get this tremendous amount of gratitude. I think of all the possibilities and I feel deeply inspired.

I’m happiest when: I’m spending time with my family.

My favorite way to unwind is: Relaxing with close friends or family; enjoying a nice dinner, a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon and lots of laughs.

My top vacation destination is: Coron, Palawan in the Philippines; it’s a little piece of heaven. Barcelona is also a fantastic place.

My favorite film is: The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

My Starbucks order is: Grande Americano with an extra shot of espresso and a touch of cream.

I work in professional beauty because: It’s a dynamic industry with talented people and amazing innovation.

Niki Nguyen, Pravana Collective Member

My main goals with the company are: To become an educator, travel, and teach with Pravana to help empower stylists to be inspired every day with the tools they already have.

I get inspired by: My environment, my team and talking to people who have truly experienced life.

I’m happiest when: I’m with my daughter, my family and my salon team. My favorite way to unwind is: Going to a coffee shop, getting my nails done or watching a movie.

My top vacation destination is: I have yet to find it!

My favorite film is: I have too many, but romantic comedies are definitely my top genre.

My Starbucks order is: An iced vanilla latte with soy milk.

I work in professional beauty because: It helps give confidence to those around me, and I gain confidence in return.

Suzanne Dawson, Global General Manager, Alterna, and General Manager, Schwarzkopf Professional US

My main goals with the companies are: For Schwarzkopf Professional, I’m looking forward to inspiring and growing our community, finding exciting new ways to connect with artists, and bringing our brand to life through groundbreaking launches. With Alterna, I’m looking forward to creating a world-class team, driving innovation, and building a transformative brand that consumers and stylists love.

I get inspired by: Nature—all your senses come alive and you can’t help but feel connected to something bigger.

I’m happiest when: I have a glass of wine in my hand and I’m surrounded by good friends and family!

My favorite way to unwind is: Yoga and meditation. In 2012, my husband and I received our Ashtanga Yoga teacher certifications—it’s such an important part of our busy lifestyles.

My top vacation destination is: Mornington Peninsula, Australia, for family, friends, beach, and eats. The south of France (my husband’s childhood home and where we got married) for the culture, conversation and gorgeous scenery. And Udaipur, India, for stunning architecture, friendly people and amazing artisans.

My favorite film is: In the Mood for Love by director Wong Kar-wai; it’s just sublime.

I work in professional beauty because: I love people. This is a community of passionate, inspiring, supportive, talented, and fun individuals that I truly enjoy being around every single day.

This story first appeared in the January issue of Beauty Launchpad magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.

[Images: Courtesy of manufacturers]