To oversee the beauty company’s makeover in North America, New Avon LLC has appointed former Abbott Laboratories and Procter & Gamble executive Scott White as CEO.
When he steps into the role on April 25, White will focus on improving the Representative and consumer experience at New Avon, which spun off from Avon Products Inc. in a December deal with Cerberus Capital Management LP. Cerberus acquired majority ownership of Avon’s flagging North America unit, looking to revitalize the iconic brand in the region where it got its start 130 years ago. Under White’s leadership, management also plans to bring a renewed focus to the operations side of the business.
“Avon’s powerful brand legacy, direct selling model, and important missions—empowering women and supporting incredible causes, such as the fights against breast cancer and domestic violence—are core tenets of this company that I am committed to building upon and strengthening,” White said in a statement. “Over the next few months, I will be meeting with many of our Representatives, listening to them and learning what New Avon and I can do to support them, improve their earnings opportunity and enhance their experience within our great Avon community.”
Most recently President of Abbott Nutrition International, White led the $4 billion business in consistent double-digit revenue growth. In all, he spent a decade with the global healthcare company, holding a series of senior positions in North America and Latin America. During a 15-year stint at consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble, White’s roles included Marketing Director of Global Hair Care and Marketing Director of Mexico and Central America.
“Scott is a world-class executive whose diverse experience leading successful business turnarounds, building strong brands, setting winning strategies, and driving operational excellence provides the unique skill set required to lead New Avon on a path to long-term success,” said Chan Galbato, Chairman of New Avon’s Board of Managers.
Across North America, the company has nearly 400,000 Representatives selling its cosmetics, skin care and fragrances. Sales in the region topped $1.01 billion in 2015, putting New Avon at No. 19 on the DSN Global 100, a list of the top direct selling companies in the world, and No. 10 among regional players on the North America 50.
