The Wella Company has appointed its new global CEO, Calvin McDonald.
Born and raised in Canada, McDonald is a proven leader across the consumer landscape. He has served as president and CEO of Sephora Americas, where he oversaw five consecutive years of double-digital growth and helped grow the company’s haircare division into its fastest-growing category.
Most recently, he was the former CEO of Lululemon Athletica, where he led the company through significant innovation and growth, which included more than tripling annual revenues and expanding the company’s global reach by more than 30 geographies. Previously, he has held senior roles in some of Canada’s largest retailers, including Loblaw Companies Limited.
As the new global CEO of The Wella Company, McDonald will be overseeing the company’s professional beauty portfolio, which includes Wella Professionals, Sebastian Professional, OPI, ghd, Nioxin and Clairol Professional.
“I’m thrilled to return to the beauty industry—an innovative, fast evolving sector powered by consumers who are genuinely passionate about the products they love,” says McDonald. “I’m energized by the opportunity to use my experience to help elevate these iconic brands, partner with the pros who bring them to life, and unlock new ways to connect with consumers. This is a pivotal moment for The Wella Company, and I’m excited to join this talented team as we shape the future of beauty together.”
McDonald graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Science degree and holds an MBA from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. He is also a member of the board of directors for the Walt Disney Company.
“We are pleased with the growth that Wella has achieved since our initial investment and are confident that Calvin is the right leader to build on that foundation and propel the company into its next chapter,” says Nancy Ford, partner at KKR, the parent company of The Wella Company. “We thank Glenn for his leadership of The Wella Company and look forward to working with him in his new capacity, alongside Calvin and the broader leadership team as they continue to further Wella’s success and reach in the beauty sector globally.”
Effective April 2, 2026, McDonald will also be joining the company’s board of directors and will be based in New York.
Glenn Murphy will remain as executive chair, providing continuity and strategic advice to McDonald and The Wella Company’s leadership team.
Marianne Medeiros continues to oversee the Canadian market as general manager for Wella Company Canada.
Comments are closed.