Who’s who Top 20 countdown – 20-15

This week we’ll be telling you a lot more about the personalities that made this year’s prestigious Who’s who in natural beauty list.

Why do they matter? Well – the people in the Top 20 have been voted for by the natural beauty industry itself, from therapists to supermarket buyers. So (adopts Jimmy Saville *RIP* voice) without further ado, let’s take a closer look at positions 20 – 15…

20. Andrew Dixon – Burt’s Bees, manager

What you said: “His strength in FMCG has given Burt’s Bees a distinct edge on its competitors”

What we say: Andrew Dixon joined Burt’s Bees in 2009 with a mission to create a real buzz for the brand in Europe. His hard work paid off and helped launch Burt’s Bees into 12 different countries in two years. Championing the company’s 100% Sustainability Programme has been a key focus for Andrew, and its sponsorship of the UK Bee Keepers Association reflects his commitment to the environment.

19. Dr Mariano Spiezia – Inlight Organic Skincare, founder

What you said: “Inlight Organic Skincare is the living testimonial of his research and commitment”

What we say: As a medical doctor, homeopath and herbalist with 30 years of scientific research to his name, Dr Mariano Spiezia provides the expertise behind Inlight Organic Skincare. His passion for nature, people and wellbeing helps make the Inlight collection a favourite with eco-aware beauty buffs. Having built the range, he’s dedicated to researching further into how nature can help create better, more effective products.

18. Skye Connelly – The Green Grocery, founder

What you said: “Their customer service has been exceptional for such a small company and I am sure I will see them winning awards for their products in years to come”

What we say: While mainstream manufacturers focus on mass production, the natural beauty industry is proving that small can be beautiful. At The Green Grocery Skye Connelly purposefully keeps batch production compact to ensure that her organic, chemical-free products are as perfectly formed as possible. Her attention to detail is getting a big reaction from therapists and retailers, who love the wellbeing proposition of her exclusive spa range, Chakrosanct.

17. Michael Lightowlers – Dr Organic, marketing director

What you said: “A brand that’s helping natural go mainstream”

What we say: Dr Organic is proving that natural beauty doesn’t have to be exclusive. With most products in its portfolio priced at less than a tenner, the brand’s natural formulas are proving a hit in high street stores like Holland & Barrett. Part of its success is down to marketing director Michael Lightowlers, who’s taken the brand to 50 different countries in his three years in the role.

16. Nic White – Alva and ONE Beauty, founder

What you said: “A real leader within the sector and someone who understands what businesses and consumers need”

What we say: With twenty years’ experience in the natural beauty sector, Nic knows a great product when he sees it. That’s why, for the last five years, he’s been focused on establishing the distribution and sales of niche organic, natural and ethical cosmetics brands. Current favourites include PURE Papaya Ointment – which found distribution to 250 stockists in the first six months of its release.

15. Tracey Robinson – Vert PR, founder

What you said: “She provides continued dedication to green and eco values and is an incredible PR”

What we say: Effective public relations professionals who truly understand what natural beauty is all about can be hard to find – and that’s why Tracey stands out. With an encyclopedic knowledge of all things natural and organic she only gets behind brands that are truly ‘green’. Her values inform every part of her business, from her burgeoning brand portfolio to the eco energy she uses to power her office in Cornwall. With Tracey in the driving seat, Vert Pr is truly a boutique agency offering natural brands expert communications with a bright green sheen.