John Heffner is retiring as chief executive officer of Summer Fridays, the beauty brand cofounded by Lauren Ireland and Marianna Hewitt in 2018.
Heffner has led Summer Fridays since 2020 and will remain as CEO while the board conducts its search for its next CEO. Following the incoming CEO’s appointment, he will remain with Summer Fridays in an advisory capacity, the brand said.
“After more than 40 years in the beauty industry, I’ve learned that the best brands are never about one person. They’re about the founders, the team, the products and the community that believes in them,” Heffner said. “Summer Fridays has cultivated an exceptional brand and customer base, and I feel lucky to have played a part in its story. Marianna, Lauren and the entire team have built a business with real staying power, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together.”
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During his tenure at Summer Fridays, Heffner led the brand through expanding retail partnerships, international distribution and product innovation, and the brand’s 2024 investment from TSG Consumer.
“John has brought wisdom, heart and steady leadership to Summer Fridays, and we are deeply grateful for his guidance and unwavering belief in our vision,” said Hewitt and Ireland. “John has been an extraordinary partner, and his impact on our brand, team and business has been immeasurable.”
“John has been an outstanding leader of Summer Fridays, helping the brand scale with intention while preserving its authenticity and deep consumer connection,” added Colin Welch, managing director and head of New York at TSG Consumer. “Since our investment in Summer Fridays, we have seen firsthand the brand’s growth trajectory and the team’s ability to build something that genuinely resonates with consumers.”
Heffner’s retirement follows more than four decades of leadership in the beauty and consumer products industries, including senior roles at Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Creative Nail Design, OPI and Drybar.