Carol Hamilton

Executive

About This Expert

Carol Hamilton is one of the beauty industry’s most respected executives. During her 30-year career with L’Oréal USA, she has been integral to its direction in the U.S. and is also widely recognized for her contributions to its international development. Carol joined L’Oréal USA in 1984 as director of marketing for L’Oréal Cosmetics and in 1996 became senior vice president of marketing for the L’Oréal Paris brand. In 2002, she was named president. Under her leadership, the L’Oréal Paris brand became the largest beauty brand in the USA.

Carol was instrumental in propelling L’Oréal Paris forward with cutting-edge imagery and innovative, quality products while embodying the company’s trademark philosophy, “Because I’m Worth It.” In 1997, L’Oréal Paris made a long-term commitment to The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF) and since then has helped to raise over $13 million on behalf of the organization. In 2005, she initiated the “Woman of Worth” program, honoring outstanding women’s contributions to their communities.

In 2008, Carol was named president of the L’Oréal Luxe Division, overseeing brands including Giorgio Armani, Lancôme, Kiehl’s Since 1851, Yves Saint Laurent, Viktor & Rolf, Ralph Lauren Fragrances, Clarisonic and most recently, the acquisition of Urban Decay. At her tenure in Luxe, Carol has focused on strategizing the brand portfolio with the luxury distribution profile, as well as elevating philanthropic endeavors, such as Giorgio Armani Acqua for Life with UNICEF. She has been named one of Advertising Age’s Marketing 100 and 50 Most Powerful People in Marketing.

Carol has an undergraduate degree from Vassar College and is the recipient of Cosmetic Executive Women’s (CEW) Achiever Award and the Oliver R. Grace Award for Distinguished Service in Advancing Cancer Research by the Cancer Research Institute. She sits on the Board of Governors of Cosmetic Executive Women, the Board of The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, The Harvard Kennedy School Women’s Leadership Board, FIT CFMM (Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing and Management) Industry Advisory Board and the U.S. New York Regional Board for UNICEF.