02.15.24
IFF has promoted three perfumers to Vice President—Patricia Hidalgo, Joa Kim, and Birgit Sijbrands. (Shown above, clockwise, from left—Sijbrands, Hidlago, and Kim.)
Beauty brands strive to create scents to match purchasing behaviors and meet the consumer's demand for fragrances—and this journey begins with the perfumer.
So what does the VP title mean for a perfumer?
Valery Claude, vice president, Innovation and Creation, Scent, IFF, explains:"Attaining the vice-president perfumer rank at IFF is a feat reserved for those with a unique blend of talent, skill and knowledge, ranging from setting industry milestones to advancing our technological frontiers, mentoring the next generation of talent and aiding our Research and Development team in developing patented ingredients."
Claude adds, "The elevation of these three distinguished women perfumers, who have devoted their lives to the artistry of fragrance, celebrates their extraordinary commitment to perfumery and their role in shaping the future of our craft."
Related: Donna Karan's New Cashmere Fragrance Line
More About Patricia "Patty" Hidalgo
Patricia "Patty" Hidalgo's career spans three decades. Her creations have not only captivated the specialty and prestige markets but have also set new benchmarks for excellence in fragrance creation."Patty is the embodiment of relentless energy, boundless optimism, and a radiant spirit," said Sabrya Meflah, president of IFF Fine Fragrance. "Her promotion to VP Perfumer is a testament to her artistic flair, her mentorship skills, and her leadership in steering her team toward success."
Hidalgo says, "The world as it smells is not just perceived but deeply felt," said Hidalgo. "I have the privilege to transport people - to that sun-kissed beach, that serene lake or those cherished memories tucked away in time - all through the evocative power of scent."
More About Joa Kim
Joa Kim's promotion is a tribute to her more than two decades of dedication to perfumery at the IFF Singapore creative hub. A fine connoisseur of ingredients, creation and the complexity of perfumery delivery systems, Kim has created iconic perfumes that have captivated consumers worldwide."Joa is the epitome of creative and technical acumen," said David Ellison, president of IFF Consumer Fragrances. "Her artistry is matched only by her technical expertise and her exceptional sense of camaraderie and generosity. Joa's artistic inspiration is deeply intertwined with her love for art and painting, leading to collaborations with the prestigious Van Gogh Museum and the fusion of scent with visual art at the 2022 IFF Singapore Innovation Centre's inauguration.
"The essence of my work is to infuse everyday household products, like liquid detergent, with emotion, transcending their functional purpose. When I craft a fragrance, I invite people to perceive the encapsulated message, to partake in the experience, and to connect with humanity – mine and others," says Kim.
More About Birgit Sijbrands
Birgit Sijbrands' career is decorated with a remarkable 28-year legacy of fragrance creation. Since her first days at IFF 17 years ago, Sijbrands has been the architect behind a multitude of successful fragrances, fostering robust partnerships with strategic customers across the globe."Birgit is the quintessence of dedication, humility and passion," said Ellison. "Through her perfumery expertise, she has consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment to crafting scents that truly awaken the extraordinary senses for a better world."
"The genuine expression on people's faces when they open their washing machine is unfeigned," said Sijbrands. "Their smiles are a testament to my success. It's indescribable to know that something I created brings joy to people, that I am a part of their lives," says Sijbrands.
