The Independent Beauty Association (IBA) announced the appointment of Dr. Akemi Ooka as interim chief executive officer, effective July 1. Ooka will succeed Don Frey, who is retiring after more than 40 years of service in the cosmetics and personal care industry.
“I’m honored and energized to be assuming IBA’s helm in this moment, because challenging times for independent beauty businesses are precisely why IBA exists,” said Ooka. “IBA has an opportunity to sharpen and expand its education and advocacy programs, support the indie beauty community and create new avenues to connect members with our many resources and with each other.”
Ooka holds a PhD in chemistry and has over 20 years of experience in the CPG industry. She has worked for companies such as The Clorox Company, method and J.R. Watkins. She currently serves as IBA’s vice president of global supply chain and sustainability resources.
“Akemi’s extensive industry experience, including in product development, supply chain and procurement leadership roles – and the keen operational and strategic vision she’s brought to IBA – make her ideally suited to lead the association forward at a pivotal moment for independent beauty businesses,” said board chair Dan Kolhoff. “I’m excited to work with Akemi in this new capacity.”
When asked about the transition, Don Frey said, “As IBA continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of the beauty industry, I am excited to have Akemi Ooka take over leadership of the association. Akemi represents the next generation of leaders for the industry. She is perfectly suited to make sure IBA grows and supports our members as regulations, social media, global trade, sustainability and AI are dramatically changing how products are developed and business is done. Akemi embodies building on the 50+ years of IBA history while embracing the new technologies of tomorrow.”
