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Last updated: January 21, 2025

PBA Announces Leslie Perry as New Executive Director

Leslie Perry, newly appointed Executive Director of the Professional Beauty Association, smiling in a vibrant blue dress.
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Photo courtesy of PBA.

Industry Veteran and Licensed Esthetician Brings Vision and Leadership to PBA

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) and its Board of Directors are proud to announce the appointment of Leslie Perry as the new Executive Director, effective January 31. With a rich history in the industry and a proven ability to drive collaboration and innovation, Leslie will lead PBA into an exciting new era. 

 

Jay Elarar, Chairman of PBA’s Board of Directors and CEO of Moroccanoil® shares his excitement: “Her exceptional leadership, industry expertise and commitment to beauty professionals make her the ideal person to lead PBA into its next chapter. We look forward to working with Leslie to drive innovation and unity in the professional beauty community.”

 

During her tenure at PBA, Leslie spearheaded initiatives that enhanced membership benefits, increased engagement and fostered satisfaction among members. As a licensed esthetician and former beauty business owner, Leslie brings a unique and relatable perspective to the diverse needs within PBA’s membership.

 

“My love for professional beauty started as a kid in the 1990s, watching my hairdresser mom transform client after client in her salon,” Leslie explains. “I never imagined as a kid sweeping hair and folding towels that one day I’d have the immense privilege of leading the association for this incredible industry. Professional beauty isn’t just my career. It’s my life.”

 

As Leslie steps into her new role alongside the PBA team, she aims to cultivate a culture of inclusivity and partnership, ensuring that PBA remains a leading voice for professionals in the industry. Her vision includes expanding resources, advocating on behalf of the industry and creating more opportunities for networking and professional development.

 

Leslie’s leadership builds on the successes of outgoing Executive Director, Nina Daily, who led PBA through significant milestones, including the formation of USA Beauty LLC, a joint venture between BolognaFiere Group, Informa Markets and PBA. “We are grateful for everything Nina has accomplished during her time at PBA,” says Jay. “Her leadership made an impact on the industry and we’re all better for it. We wish her the best in her future endeavors.”

 

For more information on Leslie’s position or PBA, please visit www.probeauty.org.

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