Shiseido’s Ron Gee, a beauty industry veteran, has been named as the company’s President and CEO for the Americas.
He takes up the role following Marc Ray’s exit from the Drunk Elephant owner in September last year.
Gee, then Chief Financial Officer and Global M&A Leader of Shiseido Americas, was appointed as the cosmetics maker’s interim CEO while a replacement was considered.
The former Coty Chief Financial Officer and L’Oréal VP will continue to serve as M&A Leader for the group alongside his new roles.
“I am honoured to have been asked to take on the Americas CEO position on a permanent basis,” said Gee.
“Since joining the company as CFO five years ago, I have developed a deep respect for Shiseido’s commitment to quality, to innovation, to our customers and, most importantly, to all of our people.
“With the support of my executive leadership team, I look forward to building on the success of the Americas region to become even stronger as we position ourselves to win in a post-pandemic landscape.”
Masahiko Uotani, Shiseido’s Group CEO, added: “During his time as CFO and more recently as interim CEO of the Americas, Ron has indisputably earned his reputation as a keen business leader, collaborative team builder, skilled problem solver and invaluable partner.
“Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, he has shown remarkable leadership in a time of crisis, protecting our business in the region while continuing to drive our ongoing digital transformation.
“With his leadership, I am confident that Shiseido Americas will achieve even greater success in the market and will continue to contribute boldly to the future of Shiseido Group and our Win 2023 strategy.”
Gee’s appointment comes at a time of development for the Shiseido brand.
So far this year, the Japanese firm terminated its contract with Dolce & Gabbana and sold off its budget personal care brands to CVC for US$1.5bn.
The group was also reported to be mulling a sale of its North American make-up brands including bareMinerals, Laura Mercier and Buxom – and Shiseido did not put speculation to rest when it declined to comment on the industry rumour.
