Irena James
Head of Technology and Business Development-Skincare Bioactives, Univar Solutions
Irena is an accomplished leader in the beauty and personal care industry with over two decades of expertise in the field of cosmetic ingredients, product and brand development, beauty innovation, sales, and education.
Currently serving as Univar Solutions’ Head of Technology and Business Development Manager for bio actives and naturals, she has previously held roles as Vice President of Product Development in contract manufacturing and was a co-founder and partner of retail and professional skincare brands sold internationally. Irena’s extensive experience also includes being a featured guest on a multi-channel home shopping video retail platform for three years.
Additionally, she has contributed to the field as an instructor in the Cosmetic Sciences program at UCLA Extension for over a decade, educating generations of students, clients, and industry peers on cutting edge subjects in cosmetic chemistry, skin physiology, cellular biology, and cosmetic ingredients. Irena has shared her knowledge nationally and internationally through lectures and published articles in professional skin care magazines, journals, and beauty publications.
Currently serving as Univar Solutions’ Head of Technology and Business Development Manager for bio actives and naturals, she has previously held roles as Vice President of Product Development in contract manufacturing and was a co-founder and partner of retail and professional skincare brands sold internationally. Irena’s extensive experience also includes being a featured guest on a multi-channel home shopping video retail platform for three years.
Additionally, she has contributed to the field as an instructor in the Cosmetic Sciences program at UCLA Extension for over a decade, educating generations of students, clients, and industry peers on cutting edge subjects in cosmetic chemistry, skin physiology, cellular biology, and cosmetic ingredients. Irena has shared her knowledge nationally and internationally through lectures and published articles in professional skin care magazines, journals, and beauty publications.