Denise Russell has consistently turned innovative concepts into profitable market opportunities, making financial milestones a reality. Her experience building global beauty brands has taken her worldwide, from brand creation to leadership. Her journey to create the brand Olaplex and manage the international distribution network of 150 countries developed in less than two years was only superseded by her next role, doing the same with K18 Hair. Both companies succeeded as Denise led in partnership with her partner, Ed Connaghan, under the agency of Eightfold/Next8. She spearheaded the agency responsible for the unprecedented rapid distribution and management of the International Division of two of the most prolific beauty brands in the last 20 years, leading to Olaplex’s highly successful initial public offering, with the company seeking a valuation of up to $1.5 billion, and K18 Hair selling at an undisclosed amount to Unilever in less than three years on the market.

Denise is pursuing another challenge by acquiring 11 patented skincare brand Matter of Fact. An avid learner, she completed her MBA while building the K18 Hair brand at the Jack Welch Institute of Management, which has provided her with practical finance experience while she builds and maintains business skills. Her eye for talent and innovation comes from her bachelor of fine arts degree in directing theatre. She sits on the board of promising companies and invests in start-up brands with hungry entrepreneurs. She has a license in cosmetology and believes in full immersion in the business to fully understand its potential.

Denise Russell’s strategic approach to brand development and distribution has been pivotal in her success, rooted in a deep understanding of evolving market channels and customer dynamics. By leveraging her expertise in rapidly scaling global beauty brands, she has consistently anticipated market trends and shifts in consumer behavior. Her ability to align innovative product development with agile distribution strategies has allowed her to stay ahead of the competition, ensuring that each brand she works with not only reaches but resonates with its target audience. This foresight into emerging channels and customer preferences continues to fuel her groundbreaking work in the beauty industry.