With the fragrance category seeing its share of indie and niche brands explode in the market and have major impact attracting consumers, TFF created its first-ever Entrepreneur Committee in 2024 to leverage the momentum from the influx of new players into the industry. A boon to the creative economy and a boost to the number of brand narratives, entrepreneurship in the fragrance space has been seminal for the future of fragrance. Nurturing these trailblazers is a TFF mission and we paired each of them with a member of TFF’s Board of Directors to learn and grow from the experience of these executives. Hear their thoughts on life-long lessons and critical business skills developed through mentoring here.
Why do you believe that mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry?
Chris – I believe mentorship is important in any industry, not just the fragrance industry. To have someone to lean on and talk to that has experience and knowledge in our industry, and is willing to share this knowledge, is extremely important. In turn, we also have to be willing to pass that mentorship forward to those that need it from us.
Agnes – I believe that mentorship is how we give back and train a new generation of leaders within our industry. Leadership is a skill that unfortunately is not taught. Many individuals become leaders because they are good at a particular task but not necessarily because they are good leaders.
How can mentorship benefit both brands and employees?
Chris – Mentorship provides some guidance of the brand and its employees with a clear path forward. It helps with decision-making and planning. Most mentors have already experienced what we as brands will be enduring at the moment or in the future. The insight is extremely helpful.
Agnes – Mentorship is an informal training program and I would argue that mentorship is as beneficial for the mentee as it is for the mentor. Mentorship helps company leaders learn and continue to be relevant with what new generations expect, or new cultural changes, therefore keeping the organization relevant. Mentees, of course, get the expertise and wisdom of well seasoned executives.
What has been the most meaningful business insight that you have received from a mentor?
Chris – There are many different positions that brands need to fill for the growth of their companies. Sometimes what you think you need isn’t always the case. For example, I thought what I needed for growth of my company was a head of sales. But after talking through my needs with my mentor, she recommended that I find someone with marketing experience first. That insight saved me a lot of time and money.
Agnes – Always “listen” to what is happening in culture, around you, and to what the new generation is into. Never stop learning or think you know it all. After all, “Peacock today, feather duster tomorrow.”
Why do you believe that mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry?
Bernardo – Mentorship is everything in this industry because it’s not just about making beautiful scents; it’s about learning how to tell a story, connect with people, and build something lasting. The fragrance world is such a blend of art and business, and having someone guide you through the tricky parts is just so, so valuable.
Adrienne – Mentorship provides a safe space for both the mentor and the mentee to continue to learn and develop new ideas. In addition to networking and guidance, it can provide a way to “pass on” knowledge and information that is very specific to the industry.
How can mentorship benefit both brands and employees?
Bernardo – Mentorship creates a ripple effect within our company. It helps us build a stronger foundation when our entire team is learning and growing for what we experience. I think oddly enough we found that we had very similar ways of looking at our companies.
Adrienne – The benefits of mentorship are vast and are good for both brands and employees. It helps foster innovation and spark creativity as well as a positive work culture. In many cases it can help in career advancement, networking, and leadership development. The best leaders I admire have at one time either been a mentee or are a mentor to others. To develop a team of effective leaders, mentorship is crucial.
What has been the most meaningful business insight that you have received from a mentor?
Bernardo – One of the best pieces of advice we received was to stay true to who we are and focus on longevity rather than fast growth. That really stuck with us because it’s so easy to get caught up in trends or trying to do too much. For House of Bō, it’s always been about staying authentic to our vision while listening to our customers and growing with them.
Adrienne – Know your business and trust your gut but back it up with data/facts.
People make all the difference, hire for attitude and work-ethic – you can teach skills, but you can’t teach passion.
Why do you believe that mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry?
Carlos – Mentorship is essential in the fragrance industry because it’s often how people find their way into this field. I personally entered the industry because a perfumer mentored me, making the time and effort to share knowledge and engage in dialogue. Without that, I wouldn’t be here.
The fragrance industry is rooted in tradition but is also evolving rapidly due to technology and changing market dynamics. Mentorship allows mentees to gain a “view from above,” learning from someone with a broader perspective and experience. The dialogue between mentor and mentee brings insight into the challenges small business owners face, providing guidance that goes beyond mere competition.
Matthieu – Mentorship is essential in the fragrance industry because it creates a shared experience which is exactly the core of our craft – a creative partnership where each participant brings their expertise and point of view to create an emotional and lasting connection. Mentorship allows for the transfer of knowledge in a field where knowing the end-to-end ecosystem is key to maximize chances of success.
This process strengthens relationships over time, linking visionaries, brand founders and perfumers together to the consumers. Specifically in the world of fragrance, mentorship is also about sharing a passion and excitement for the craft. Many people in this field started their brands after being mentored, making mentorship a powerful driver of growth, learning, and creative energy.
How can mentorship benefit both brands and employees?
Carlos – Nothing in this industry exists in a vacuum—it takes a team. Mentorship plays a critical role in nurturing that team, from employees to suppliers to contractors. By investing in mentorship, brands can cultivate loyalty, commitment, and excellence within their networks. Mentorship encourages everyone to hold each other accountable, creating a culture where we all strive for shared success and continuously elevate each other.
Matthieu – Mentorship benefits both brands and employees by building trusted partnerships that lead to better products. By integrating different aspects of the business, mentorship enables a more cohesive approach resulting in higher-quality creations. It encourages collaboration and growth within teams, helping everyone work together toward shared goals. For example, learning from a brand founder and visionary like Carlos, who approaches challenges to drive his creative vision with commitment and a strong desire for growth, shows how mentorship can inspire a team to strive for excellence.
What has been the most meaningful business insight that you have received from a mentor?
Carlos – One of the most meaningful insights I’ve received from a mentor is the importance of brand clarity. A brand must have a clear, easy-to-understand message that resonates across all aspects—visual, olfactory, and in its storytelling. When a brand’s concept is easy to understand, it’s easier for others to connect with and support it. Another invaluable lesson has been about consistency and loyalty. Remaining true to your initial supporters and not constantly pivoting is vital for maintaining brand identity. By staying consistent, we grow alongside our audience, building a brand that resonates deeply over time. Shifting too frequently risks losing that identity and connection.
Matthieu – One of the most impactful insights from a mentor is to not avoid problems but to confront them openly. True leadership requires authenticity and trust, and it’s about showing up with honesty and building a culture of working and winning together. People value genuine leadership, and mentorship is fundamental in creating these shared experiences that help teams grow together and achieve success.
Why do you believe that mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry?
Erica – I love mentorship because it’s a two-way exchange of experience and ideas. In the fragrance world, where consumers constantly seek fresh perspectives and styles, mentorship allows industry expertise to be passed on to next-generation creatives. It empowers us to bring a broader range of stories, ideas, and olfactive landscapes to the industry, driving innovation and expanding what fragrance can represent.
Ingrid – Mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry because it’s such a unique blend of art, science, and storytelling. It’s not something you can fully grasp from a textbook or on your own—you really learn through the experiences and insights of others. A good mentor can open your eyes to the nuances of creating a scent that resonates emotionally, not just smells nice.
For me, mentorship is also about connection. The fragrance industry can feel mysterious and gatekept at times, so having someone who’s been there before can make it feel more accessible. Mentorship isn’t just about learning technical skills—it’s about being inspired, supported, and challenged to grow creatively. I wouldn’t be where I am without people who shared their knowledge with me, and that’s something I want to pay forward.
Christina – Mentorship in the fragrance industry is crucial for emerging brands, offering insights from established companies on product development, supply chain management, brand positioning, and growth strategies. In a competitive market, mentors provide valuable guidance, helping brands stay ahead of trends and create products that resonate emotionally, strengthening their brand identity.
How can mentorship benefit both brands and employees?
Ingrid – Mentorship is such a win-win for both brands and employees because it creates a culture of growth and collaboration. For employees, having a mentor means they feel supported and empowered to learn and take risks—they’re not just figuring things out on their own. That confidence and development naturally leads to better work and more creative contributions.
For brands, mentorship builds loyalty and strengthens the team. When employees feel invested in and valued, they’re more engaged and motivated, which directly benefits the brand. Plus, it’s a way to pass down knowledge and keep the brand’s vision alive through fresh ideas. Mentorship helps everyone level up together—it’s not just about the individual, it’s about creating something bigger and better as a team.
Erica – Mentorship requires an expansive, optimistic and selfless outlook. In my experience, both giving and receiving mentorship sharpens the soft skills that help to improve product development and marketing efforts. In today’s environment, where consumers are oversubscribed and under-resourced, these soft skills lead to greater impact.
Christina – I believe relationships are key to any successful business. Mentoring entrepreneurial brands allows me to apply my knowledge in new ways while giving back through guidance and support. Seeing a new brand thrive, build customer loyalty, and show financial progress is incredibly fulfilling, especially knowing my advice made a difference.
What has been the most meaningful business insight that you have received from a mentor?
Ingrid – We recently had our advisor, a Wall Street veteran, join us for a 2025 planning meeting with our finance lead. Watching the way she navigated a series of complex conversations was masterful. So for me, it’s more than what’s said, it’s seeing the person in action, and seeing the person that I want to be.
Erica – I recently faced a significant decision about scaling the business, and it felt like a real crossroads moment. Our advisor listened intently as I shared my quandary. She then did something simple yet profound—she brought it back to values. She reminded me of the importance of assessing decisions against the core values that guide The New Savant. Her advice was a turning point, providing clarity and an unlock that I know will stick with me for years to come.
Christina – The most valuable business insight I’ve received from a mentor was the importance of speaking up and being visible. At times, it can feel intimidating to contribute in high-profile meetings, but it’s crucial to do so. When you have a seat at the table, make sure to use it!
Why do you believe that mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry?
Malaika – Mentorship is the cornerstone of innovation in fragrance. Ann Gottlieb’s journey – from giving candid feedback to Estée Lauder to becoming an industry pioneer – demonstrates how mentorship can unlock hidden talent. In an industry that has historically lacked diversity, strong mentorship creates pathways for underrepresented voices to succeed and innovate.
Ann – Mentorship is important in any industry. I can easily say that it is responsible for the beginning of my career. Mentorship is having someone whom you respect see something positive in you that you don’t see in yourself. The confidence it affords is valuable as it helps steer the mentee in a direction that has a positive impact on his/her career.
How can mentorship benefit both brands and employees?
Malaika – The benefits ripple throughout organizations. For brands, mentorship brings fresh perspectives and cultural insights that keep them relevant. For employees, as Ann demonstrates through her philosophy – ‘I will always share everything I can about my process and about what I do – they gain invaluable industry knowledge that typically takes decades to acquire.
Ann – When a mentor works with a mentee, the mentee gains broader experience, support, and help with his or her individual growth. This is a win-win for both the person and the company.
What has been the most meaningful business insight that you have received from a mentor?
Malaika– I’m particularly excited to learn from Ann’s deep industry expertise. Her insight about successful fragrances needing to be ‘focused on the consumer and the brand’ resonates deeply with BROWN GIRL Jane’s mission. As she notes, ‘I can’t develop a fragrance or a line of products unless I know who the consumer is and what she’s using.’ This aligns perfectly with our approach to creating authentic fragrances that speak to our community while having broad market appeal.
Ann – Mrs. Estée Lauder taught me the importance of fragrance strength and innovation in appealing to a broader audience. From George Friedman, I learned the power of risk and the confidence to follow my instincts. From Annette Golden, I learned the importance of the consumer in the product mix.
Why do you believe that mentorship is so important in the fragrance industry?
Teri – Mentorship is a cornerstone for fostering inclusion, innovation, and equity in the fragrance industry. For too long, access to professional careers in the fragrance world has been limited by cultural biases and systemic inequities. Through mentorship, industry veterans can pass on essential skills, insights, and networks that are often inaccessible to newcomers who don’t fit the traditional mold. Mentorship in the fragrance industry also nurtures diversity of thought and creativity as fragrance is deeply tied to cultural expression and storytelling.
Sumit – Mentorship in general is important in nurturing and growing future talent and enabling individuals to reach their full potential. It is even more critical in an industry like ours where the knowledge base is limited to a few experts. Mentorship enables fragrance industry leaders to share their experiences, and that will drive new innovative ideas to grow the industry.
How can mentorship benefit both brands and employees?
Teri – Mentorship can strengthen the overall ecosystem of the fragrance industry with both large corporations and small niche brands. We both have the ability to learn from each other by sharing best practices, industry knowledge, and innovative tips and tricks that can lead to measurable results. Mentorship also fosters collaboration and community within the industry. As a small brand, I gain access to a wider support network which hopefully can open doors to partnerships that might otherwise remain out of reach.
Sumit – Mentorship enables start-up brands to speed the learning curve, and the relationship between the mentee and the mentor leads to a much more collaborative and connected community. The diversity of thinking styles in addition seeds new innovative approaches and partnerships.
What has been the most meaningful business insight that you have received from a mentor?
Teri – To always have multiple manufacturers who can make my products, negotiate every “standard” contract I receive and to always maintain great relationships with vendors.
Sumit – Ensure you have a steadfast vision and be governed by strong principles and value system.
THE TFF ENTREPRENEUR COMMITTEE ON YEAR ONE
About to mark its first year, TFF asked the entrepreneurs steering the discussions and strategy for the committee their thoughts on their camaraderie, creative spirit and the community they have built within the larger fragrance community. Here’s what they had to say.
How has the Entrepreneur Committee in its first year formulating strategy benefited its members?
Chris Collins | Chair of The Entrepreneur Committee
The Entrepreneur Committee has been a huge success in its first year. To have a platform to discuss our pain points and be there for each other is priceless. No matter how big or small our companies are, we are all trying to navigate the same treacherous waters of the fragrance industry.
Carlos Huber
The Entrepreneur Committee has provided a valuable forum where members can voice their interests, share their challenges, and discuss what’s happening in their companies. This peer system fosters collaboration, with members learning from each other and expanding their networks. We often find unexpected insights and new perspectives through these exchanges. For me, it’s been a valuable resource for growth and shared learning.
Bernardo Mӧller
The committee has been such a great space to connect with other founders and share ideas. It’s been amazing to hear how others are tackling similar challenges, whether it’s scaling a business, finding the right partnerships, or staying creative under pressure. There’s so much value in just being able to brainstorm and swap stories with people who get it. It’s also nice to know you’re not alone in this crazy entrepreneurial journey.
Erica Anderson & Ingrid Nilsen
We have greatly valued our involvement in the Entrepreneur Committee. It’s provided a platform to build meaningful connections with fellow founders, fostering collaboration and support beyond the meetings. The mentorship program has been equally impactful—we were fortunate to be paired with Christina Rhodes, whose expert product feedback has been invaluable. One of her insights is already shaping The New Savant’s 2025 roadmap.
Just being around people who are in it has been meaningful. Everyone is at a slightly different stage, but we share the commonality of building a business. We’ve really leaned on each other, and it’s also been fun!
Malaika Jones
As for our Entrepreneur Committee’s first year, it has created an invaluable support network for emerging brands. Working together, we’re building a collaborative ecosystem that strengthens all of our businesses through shared knowledge and resources.
Teri Johnson
As a member of the committee, one of the most rewarding aspects has been the opportunity to foster growth, collaboration, and the exchange of invaluable insights into the intricacies of building a successful fragrance brand. Together, we share best practices, strategies, and vital industry and retail knowledge that might otherwise remain out of reach, creating a supportive and empowering community. We have cultivated meaningful friendships and deep trust among one another, making it an extraordinary experience to collaborate with fellow brand founders, each bringing unique stories and perspectives.
My aspiration is that we continue to expand and strengthen these relationships, bridging the gap between indie brands and large corporations, and further championing diversity and innovation as we proudly represent the new faces of the fragrance industry.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 21: (L-R) Chris Collins, Vera Wang, Matthew Bauer, Linda G. Levy, Jerry Vittora, Anna Sui, and Francisco Costa participate in the ribbon cutting as The Fragrance Foundation celebrates Fragrance Day and Fragrance Week with first ever pop up shop on Madison Avenue on March 21, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Fragrance Foundation)
