Latinas Make Up 1% of C-Suite Roles—It’s Time for More
, by Emily Perez, 3 min reading time
Latinas Make Up 1% of C-Suite Roles—It’s Time for More
The beauty industry thrives on innovation, diversity, and cultural influence—yet the boardrooms and executive offices don’t reflect the very communities that drive its success. Latinas make up just 1% of C-suite roles in corporate America, and the beauty industry is no exception.
Despite being a fast-growing demographic in the workforce, Latinas remain vastly underrepresented in leadership positions. The question is: Why—and what can we do to change it?
Breaking Through the Corporate Ceiling
Latinas are a driving force in the workforce and the beauty industry. From shaping trends to leading marketing strategies, our influence is undeniable. Yet, when it comes to decision-making roles, we are still fighting for a seat at the table.
Several key barriers contribute to this disparity:
Limited access to mentorship & sponsorship – Without executive-level advocates, fewer Latinas are promoted to leadership positions.
Unconscious bias & systemic barriers – Many companies fail to address the unique challenges Latinas face in the workplace.
Lack of equitable leadership pipelines – Latinas often get overlooked for promotions despite having the skills and ambition to lead.
But change is happening. More Latina leaders are stepping into influential roles—setting the stage for future generations.
Meet the Latinas Leading in Beauty
Despite the challenges, Latina executives are making waves in some of the biggest beauty companies:
Latinas in the C-Suite of Beauty Companies
Carla Vernón – CEO, Honest Company (Currently the only Afro-Latina CEO of a publicly traded company)
Marilu Marshall – SVP, Executive Management & Global Chief Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Officer, Estée Lauder Companies
Agnes Landau – Chief Marketing Officer, Shiseido
Marcela Melero – Chief Growth Officer, Unilever
Latinas in Brand President & General Manager Roles
Michelle Freyre – Global Brand President, Estée Lauder Companies
Teresa Lopez – General Manager, L’Oréal
Latina CEOs & Presidents of Independently Owned Beauty Brands
Kimberly Villatoro – CEO, Patrick Ta Beauty
Lucia Perdomo-Ruehlemann – President, Saie Beauty
Malena Higuera – CEO, NOYZ
These powerhouse leaders are shaping the beauty industry, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation of Latina executives.
The Opportunity: A Future Where Latinas Lead
The challenge isn’t a lack of ambition or talent—Latinas are more likely than other women to aspire to senior leadership. The issue is access to opportunities, fair promotions, and inclusive corporate cultures.
How We Can Create Change
✅ Invest in Latina talent – Companies must build equitable pathways for Latina professionals to rise through the ranks.
✅ Increase mentorship & sponsorship – Executive leaders must actively advocate for Latina employees.
✅ Address bias in hiring & promotions – Systemic barriers need to be dismantled to create real change.
✅ Support Latina-led brands – Consumers and investors can uplift Latina entrepreneurs and executives in beauty.
The future of leadership is Latina. As more of us rise to decision-making roles, we create space for innovation, progress, and equity in the beauty industry.
Be Part of the Movement
We are more than 1%. Latinas are ready to lead, and it’s time for corporate America to recognize our impact.
Sign the Pledge for Equity with Latinas in Beauty and join the movement for more Latina representation at the highest levels.
Together, we can rewrite the narrative, elevate Latina leaders, and create a beauty industry where we are seen, heard, and empowered.
