Calvin McDonald Takes Charge as CEO of The Wella Company

The Wella Company has appointed Calvin McDonald as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 2, 2026. McDonald, who will also join the company’s Board of Directors, brings extensive leadership experience from prominent global brands. He succeeds Glenn Murphy, who will continue in his role as Executive Chair, providing strategic guidance during this transition.

Murphy expressed enthusiasm about McDonald’s appointment, highlighting his successful track record in driving market share and profitable growth. “Calvin’s proven ability to drive results through product differentiation, category expansion, and smart investments will help us win in the dynamic beauty sector,” he stated.

Founded on a legacy of innovation, The Wella Company has transformed into a leading player in the beauty industry under the ownership of KKR. The company’s portfolio features well-known brands including Wella Professionals, Sebastian Professional, OPI, ghd, Nioxin, and Clairol. Over recent years, the team has focused on enhancing brand strength and refining its innovation pipeline, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth.

According to Nancy Ford, Partner at KKR, the company has achieved significant growth since their initial investment. “We are confident that Calvin is the right leader to build on that foundation and propel the company into its next chapter,” she noted. Ford acknowledged Murphy’s contributions to the company, emphasizing the collaborative effort that will continue under McDonald’s leadership.

In his own words, McDonald expressed excitement about returning to the beauty industry, stating, “I’m thrilled to return to an innovative, fast-evolving sector powered by consumers who are genuinely passionate about the products they love.” His background includes notable positions in the consumer space, most recently as CEO of lululemon athletica, where he led the company through significant growth, tripling annual revenues and expanding its global presence.

Before his tenure at lululemon, McDonald served as President and CEO of Sephora Americas, a division of the LVMH group, where he achieved five consecutive years of double-digit growth. He transformed the brand into a market leader in the Americas and fostered haircare as the fastest-growing category.

As he steps into his new role, McDonald is poised to leverage his experience to elevate The Wella Company’s iconic brands and strengthen connections with both professionals and consumers. “This is a pivotal moment for The Wella Company, and I’m excited to join this talented team as we shape the future of beauty together,” he added.

McDonald holds an MBA from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Western Ontario. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of The Walt Disney Company. Born in Canada, McDonald is an endurance athlete who participates in ironman distance triathlons and marathons, balancing his professional commitments with family life alongside his wife and four children.

The Wella Company, with its extensive portfolio and strong market presence, aims to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation in the beauty sector. With McDonald at the helm, the company is expected to further enhance its reputation and reach, continuing to impact communities worldwide through its diverse array of products and services.