As the world prepares to celebrate International Women's Month, we turn our attention to a woman who has made an indelible mark in the luxury skincare industry: Sophie Vann Guillon, the CEO of Valmont Cosmetics and a revolutionary in the beauty industry.   
Luxury skincare is not just her business--it's her passion. She uses science and years of expertise to change how products treat the skin of her clients. Sophie's story is one of perseverance, hard work, and determination, and it serves as an inspiration to women everywhere who are just starting their careers. 
CEO of the Valmont Group since 2017, Sophie has made Valmont an industry leader through its innovative anti-aging formulations and created a luxury brand that remains authentic to its Swiss cellular cosmetics roots. Her well-honed instinct, supremely analytical mind, and uncompromising commitment to quality have been the keys to success for Sophie Vann Guillon.    
To celebrate International Women’s Month, we sat down with Sophie to discuss her career, views on the beauty industry, and what it means to be a woman in a leadership role. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a recent graduate, or simply looking to make your mark in the workforce, Sophie's leadership and advice are sure to inspire you to chase your dreams and achieve your goals. 

Sophie, you’ve been an influential leader in the beauty industry for many years and Valmont CEO since 2017. Can you tell us how you got to where you are today?   

  
That’s one long story. But honestly, I can say that hard work, intuition, belief in myself and passion for what I do have always served me well in the face of adversity and contributed to my success.   
By success, I mean reaching the goals you set for yourself. Everyone’s goals are different and don’t necessarily involve becoming a CEO, ever or in the immediate. In my experience and observation of others, taking it one step at a time generally brings you to where you want to go.   
Women’s struggle for equal opportunity in the professional world is a good example. Slowly but surely, we’ve worked towards change, and our status has evolved and continues to do so. Today, many women are in their rightful place, and for up-and-coming generations; the prospects are bright.  

Can you tell us how the consumer's attitude toward skincare has changed over time?   

When I first entered the business, makeup dominated the beauty industry. The shift from “covering up” to “taking care” of the skin was gradual, with the pandemic acting as a super-accelerator from 2020 onwards.   
Confinement turned makeup and professional spa treatments into little more than pleasant memories. People found themselves with time on their hands and a pressing psychological need for self-care to alleviate stress and feel good again.   
This change in lifestyle altered the consumer’s relationship with everything, skincare included. People now have access to the best advice on their smartphones. From beauty experts to tutorials and recommendations, you have so much information at your fingertips. The consumer is so savvy about skincare now, it’s impressive. 
They want the best of the best, and Valmont, we make it our priority to surpass their expectations.  

Sophie, you’ve been an influential leader in the beauty industry for many years and Valmont CEO since 2017. Can you tell us how you got to where you are today?   

In this fast-paced world, finding balance is key. We all have our opinions, but it's important to listen to those around us. Surround yourself with a trusted roster of individuals who challenge and inspire you to be your best self. Teamwork makes the dream work, and collaboration leads to innovation. Let's face it; we all have our moments of self-doubt, but sometimes trusting your team can be the way to go. 
For us women, intuition can be second nature. We have this uncanny ability to sense things before they happen. It's essential to cultivate that gift and listen to it. 
When something doesn't feel right, trust your gut, and investigate further. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek out additional information to make the best decision possible. 
Lastly, don’t forget to pamper your skin! And if you ask me, nothing beats Valmont… But then again, maybe I’m biased.