Faces of Neal’s Yard Remedies: Lisa Shelley
We’re proud of our Neal’s Yard Remedies community, and in this interview series we’d like to introduce some of the faces behind our business. You’ll learn more about each person, their role within our business, and their beauty must-haves.
This week, we’re speaking to Lisa Shelley, CEO of Neal’s Yard Remedies Canada.
What do you love most about your role at Neal’s Yard Remedies?
“Every time I walk into the office, I am greeted by the most beautiful aromas, and this is such a lovely way to start my day! I love being part of a growing business that does good for the planet while providing a really amazing skincare solution. I love thinking creatively to come to a unique solution – whether that is with a customer’s skincare needs or with a more complex business issue. Knowing that we’re making the world a better place every day while leading a values-based business is what helps me jump out of bed every morning.”
What does your average working day look like?
“I am fortunate to say that no two days are the same! I have oversight of the Canadian business, so I get to wear many hats. We always start off our Monday morning with a team huddle – we talk about the most important things we are each going to accomplish and how we can support each other in reaching our individual and team goals. I’ll spend some time reviewing marketing materials, other time reviewing customer purchasing patterns and forecasting for the next season, and other times I’m reviewing financial reports or strategic plans. The diversity in my role is what keeps it exciting, and I love integrating knowledge from each business area to align us towards our vision of making the world a happier, healthier place.”
If you weren’t Neal’s Yard Canada CEO, what would you be?
“Interestingly, I started my career as a Chartered Accountant and made a switch, which is how I came to be the CEO of Neal’s Yard Remedies in Canada! It was quite a career change, and I’ve loved the challenge! Now, with over 8 years of experience in the Canadian business, my career aspirations are set on growing a global company by applying my strategic and financial background as a CA with my experience in international development. Long story short: to become a global CEO. Personally, I’m a huge wanderlust and have travelled to 90 countries, which is part of the reason I have loved running a company with British roots in Canada!”
Do you have any advice for someone starting out on their career?
“Looking back on the early days of my career, the best advice I would give myself would be to say yes to everything. You just never know where something may lead and I believe that the more experiences we have, the more opportunities we will create for ourselves. Staying open to new ideas, new ways of doing things, and new areas of growth can be so surprising and so rewarding!”
What’s your can’t-live-without Neal’s Yard Remedies product?
“I get asked this question all the time and limiting myself to just one NYR product is SO difficult! Of course, Wild Rose Beauty Balm is at the top of everyone’s list, and recently the Frankincense Intense Hydrating Essence has become another must-have (my skin LOVES the texture and hydration). I also can’t live without the Frankincense Intense Eye Cream! They’re all staples in my daily routine (I could go on…)”