Her Story
About Kathy
Kathy Lewis is an executive in the beauty industry based in New York, NY. She has worked in beauty since 1995 and has served as an executive since 2006. In her current role, she oversees customer experience and education, along with community building, global education, and global capability infrastructures. Lewis holds a Bachelor's in Operational Leadership from Arizona State University and an MBA from Purdue School of Business. She also earned two master certificates from Cornell University in customer service and hospitality, a certification from NYU's School of Business on Strategic Management, and a coaching certificate as an Extraordinary Lead. She is a licensed certified Strength Finders leadership coach and a member of Cosmetic Executive Women. Lewis serves as a committee member on the education board for Long Beach Public Schools, specifically on the curriculum and technology committee, and volunteers with Friendships for Life in elder care. She attributes her success to hard work, having moved to America as a young woman with only a high school diploma and $400, starting as a temp assistant and advancing through consistent five-year goal setting. Lewis values authenticity, honesty, and kindness, and advises never bringing a problem to the table without at least a potential solution.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kathy
01What do you attribute your success to?
Honestly, hard work. I moved to America when I was young with pretty much no education other than a high school diploma, and like $400 in my pocket. No job, no money, nothing. I started as a temp assistant and worked my way up. I always set five-year goals for myself and always hit them.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never bring a problem to the table without a solution. At least a potential solution. My boss used to tell me that.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Never be intimidated by the other people in the room. You're as entitled to be there as anyone else, and your opinion is just as valuable.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Creating an emotional connection with the consumer is really important for loyalty. If they feel attached to your product and feel like you understand them, they will buy you forever.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity, honesty, and kindness.
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