How I Became Nars Cosmetics’ Deputy General Manager of Global Marketing
Navigating the Beauty Market: Jennifer Jackson’s Inspirational Journey
In the ever-evolving world of beauty marketing, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Jennifer Jackson, the Deputy General Manager of Global Marketing at Nars Cosmetics. Jennifer’s career trajectory is not just a narrative of growth; it’s a masterclass in adaptability, passion, and strategic marketing.
From PR Assistant to Global Marketing Leader
Jennifer’s journey began in the heart of New York City, where she accepted a role as a PR assistant, a position she describes as a crucial "paying your dues" job. In a candid chat with BoF’s Sophie Soar during a LinkedIn Live session, she recalled, “That initial role was essential in learning the ropes of the industry.”
Equipped with a Journalism and Business degree from New York University, she embarked on her career with internships and positions at notable institutions like Saks Fifth Avenue and a PR agency where she worked with game-changers like Net-a-Porter and Coach. This foundation set the stage for her to thrive in the fast-paced world of fashion, collaborating with iconic brands like Calvin Klein and Alexander Wang.
Transitioning to Beauty: A Passionate Pivot
As her career progressed, Jennifer recognized a pivotal necessity—expanding her horizons beyond fashion. “I realized many fashion companies I admired weren’t based in New York,” she shared. “I wanted to pursue a global role that would allow me to impact the industry on a larger scale.”
This led her to the beauty sector, an industry she adored as a consumer but had little experience in professionally. She joined Nars Cosmetics as a Senior Global Marketing Manager. “Learning the mechanics of beauty marketing was the key,” Jennifer emphasized, highlighting her determination to immerse herself fully in this new terrain.
Key Strategies for Breaking into the Beauty Industry
Jennifer is passionate about sharing advice for those looking to enter the beauty industry:
1. Cultivate a Genuine Interest
“First and foremost, really love the industry and the products you’re working with,” she advises. Staying active on social media and embracing new marketing avenues is essential for thriving in this dynamic field. “Be prepared for constant change and embrace it.”
2. Leverage Your Previous Experience
Transitioning from PR to an in-house role was a strategic move for Jennifer. “My foundation in PR taught me how to navigate complex client needs and allowed me to visualize the types of brands I wanted to support.”
She reflects on her time during the launch of Net-a-Porter in the U.S., emphasizing that understanding diverse client journeys was crucial for identifying her future focus areas.
3. Networking: The Power of Connections
Building a strong network is critical. “Start by reaching out to your personal connections,” Jennifer suggests. “Look for common links on LinkedIn and approach those who can provide insights or introductions.” Attending events and making exploratory connections can open doors for your career transition.
Gaining Experience in the Beauty Sector
Jennifer emphasizes the value of retail experience. “Working in environments like Sephora or Ulta gives you critical consumer insights,” she explains. “It equips you with knowledge that is invaluable when developing marketing strategies at a global level.”
Entry-level roles may seem daunting, but Jennifer asserts that experience in retail can set you apart, providing a wealth of market knowledge and competitive insights that hiring managers value.
A Day in the Life at Nars Cosmetics
As Deputy General Manager, Jennifer’s daily tasks are diverse and dynamic. “Some days, I analyze the performance of new product collections, while others involve strategic planning for future campaigns,” she explains. “I also enjoy the opportunity to travel and collaborate with local teams, understanding their unique challenges and successes.”
Her role involves not just immediate marketing strategies but also looking toward trends for 2027 and beyond, ensuring the brand remains competitive and relevant in a bustling beauty market.
Key Takeaways from 12 Years at Nars
Reflecting on her journey at Nars, Jennifer shares invaluable lessons:
Embrace Continuous Learning: The marketing landscape is continually changing. To succeed, you must educate yourself and stay ahead of trends.
Be Proactive: “Raise your hand for projects where you can add value rather than waiting for an invitation,” she encourages.
- Be Scrappy: The fashion and beauty industries demand creativity and resourcefulness. Finding ways to make things happen is critical to success.
In conclusion, Jennifer Jackson’s transition from a PR assistant to a leadership role at Nars Cosmetics exemplifies her dedication and strategic foresight in the marketing world. For those aspiring to make waves in the beauty industry, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that with passion, networking, and a willingness to learn, anything is possible.
For more insights into building a career in beauty, don’t miss the full interview on LinkedIn Live: Building a Career in Beauty with Jennifer Jackson.
For those looking to explore further career opportunities in the beauty industry, visit BoF Careers for the latest job postings.
