A Q&A WITH:
FENTY BEAUTY
We recently caught up with Josh Palmer, E-commerce Manager at Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin, to discuss all things beauty. Read on for some exclusive behind-the-scenes insights…
Josh Palmer
E-commerce Manager at Fenty Beauty and Fenty Skin
What did you study at university, and where?
Business Management with Industrial Experience at University of Exeter.
What was your first role out of uni?
A Marketing Graduate Scheme at ASOS. It was a super interesting programme, which spanned over two years. I rotated around the Partnerships, Brand Marketing, Digital Media and SEO teams.
It was a great first insight into working in both fashion and digital marketing, at one of the largest online e-commerce sites in the UK. I was lucky enough to work on a lot of partner campaigns with large beauty brands, which fuelled my love and curiosity for the beauty industry even further.
It was a great first insight into working in both fashion and digital marketing, at one of the largest online e-commerce sites in the UK. I was lucky enough to work on a lot of partner campaigns with large beauty brands, which fuelled my love and curiosity for the beauty industry even further.
Tell us a little about your current role—the good, the bad, and the ugly!
What I love most about my current role is the incredible brands I get to work across. Fenty Beauty sent shockwaves through the beauty industry at launch, pioneering inclusive shade ranges and formulas. And the natural evolution of Fenty Skin and Fenty Fragrance only embodies our core message further.
Plus, working behind the scenes on Ole Henriksen—a powerhouse of clinical, Scandinavian skincare, with 40+ years of expertise in vitamin C, adored by celebrities and customers around the world looking to achieve the Ole glow! And KVD Beauty, the TikTok viral, fun brand with some of the highest performance products and formulas in the market, allowing customers to express their individuality and creativity through the power of makeup. The best part is bringing all these brands’ new and exciting launches to life across our digital channels and retailer partnerships to educate, inspire and convert.
Plus, working behind the scenes on Ole Henriksen—a powerhouse of clinical, Scandinavian skincare, with 40+ years of expertise in vitamin C, adored by celebrities and customers around the world looking to achieve the Ole glow! And KVD Beauty, the TikTok viral, fun brand with some of the highest performance products and formulas in the market, allowing customers to express their individuality and creativity through the power of makeup. The best part is bringing all these brands’ new and exciting launches to life across our digital channels and retailer partnerships to educate, inspire and convert.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the beauty industry?
Try and get as much experience as possible…. and I know that isn’t always easy considering how competitive the employment space is right now, especially for young people. But this is really one way you can try and stand out from other applicants.
Start by sending emails, LinkedIn messages, and keep an eye out for discussion panels, networking events or relevant career open days which might lead to new contacts.
“Experience doesn’t always have to take place in the workplace.”
You can find lots of free online courses relevant to beauty, e-commerce or wider digital marketing channels. And it doesn’t have to be boring! Listen to any relevant podcasts about the beauty world, watch documentaries, stay up-to-date with the latest industry news. This way you can keep an eye on what new brands are launching.
And think to yourself: ‘Where are you seeing their products featured?’, ‘Are people talking about it?’, ‘What do you like about it, or not like about it?’... Be curious! Having a good knowledge of what’s going on in the industry will really help in interviews to show you understand the market, as well as the role/brand you are applying for.
Start by sending emails, LinkedIn messages, and keep an eye out for discussion panels, networking events or relevant career open days which might lead to new contacts.
“Experience doesn’t always have to take place in the workplace.”
You can find lots of free online courses relevant to beauty, e-commerce or wider digital marketing channels. And it doesn’t have to be boring! Listen to any relevant podcasts about the beauty world, watch documentaries, stay up-to-date with the latest industry news. This way you can keep an eye on what new brands are launching.
And think to yourself: ‘Where are you seeing their products featured?’, ‘Are people talking about it?’, ‘What do you like about it, or not like about it?’... Be curious! Having a good knowledge of what’s going on in the industry will really help in interviews to show you understand the market, as well as the role/brand you are applying for.
beauty industry insider secrets?
