Meet Tory Diamond a seasoned beauty industry professional with over a decade at L'Oreal, currently serving as SVP for Retail Sales & Business Strategies in L'Oreal Luxe Division. With 9 years at Kiehl's, she mastered roles spanning marketing, planning, and sales. An NYU Stern MBA graduate, Tory's expertise extends from Estee Lauder and Macy's, and she relishes family life with her husband and two daughters in Manhattan.
How did you get your start in the fashion/ beauty industry?
When I was in college I thought the only jobs available post-graduation were in law, finance and medicine. I started reading Women's Wear Daily and realized that working in beauty and fashion could be a career! I connected with every article I read and immediately started applying to entry level jobs in the beauty and fashion industry. My first job in the industry was at L'Occitane, then I worked at Macy's and Estee Lauder, and after getting my MBA I came to L'Oreal where I have worked for 13 years.
What is your favorite part about working in the beauty sector?
The products and the people! We have some of the best brands in the industry at L'Oreal and the smartest people. Everyone is the best at what they do and it is inspiring to work in that environment every day. It is also fun! I find myself giving skincare and makeup advice at parties all the time - to both women and men. Everyone wants to talk about what products can help them look and feel their best and I love to help people with their routines.
What has been your greatest challenge as a female executive in a predominantly male industry? How have you overcome it, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
Actually there are a lot of women in the beauty industry and some amazing female role models. I have learned, regardless of gender, that you really need to advocate for yourself. Nobody knows you want that next job or experience unless you tell them and go after it. It is so important to spend some time thinking about what you really want - what are your long term goals - and then make sure you are making career decisions that will help you get there. I have learned that you are in the driver's seat of your own career and you need to actively navigate it with confidence.
How do you believe your lived experiences and perspective as a woman have influenced your leadership style?
I have been surrounded by women my whole life - I have two older sisters, and I went to an all-girls school in New York City from Kindergarten through 12th grade. I think growing up in an environment where girls were encouraged to take on every role, play every sport and pursue every dream has shaped how I lead today. I believe in the power of collaboration, trust and support for all team members. You get a much better results when a team comes together and amplifies all voices.
What advice would you give to aspiring female executives who want to follow in your footsteps?
I would say to find something you are passionate about and give it your all. Start at the bottom and do that job really well. Even if it seems that something you are doing is insignificant or not making an impact on the business, it probably is. Sending mailings, crunching numbers, organizing product closets - all of those things are integral to the business. People will notice if you do whatever that job is really well and you will get that next role or opportunity.
Who is the most inspiring woman in your life?
This is a hard one to narrow down - there are so many inspiring women in my life. I am going to give you a quick list:
My mom for her kindness and thoughtfulness
My boss, Megan Grant, for her intellect, empathy, and the example she sets for all of us being a bad-ass working mom!
Michelle Obama for being such a powerful advocate for health, education and military families.
What’s one thing you never leave the house without?
My phone (and if I can name a second, a lip gloss!)
In your opinion, what role does self-care play in the beauty and/or fashion industry and how do you prioritize it in your own life?
Self-care plays a huge role in my industry as well as in my own life. Last year we started an annual Wellness Day in the Luxe Division of L'Oreal. It was a day full of virtual and in person connection and time to focus on our well-being which included speakers, activities and healthy meals for all. I prioritize wellness in my own life in many ways - I exercise most days doing either The Sculpt Society or Tracy Anderson and I play lots of tennis in the summer. I also try to walk everywhere in New York City - I like that much better than the subway! I love my Oura Ring and always aim for 7-8 hours of sleep a night.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enhance their personal style? How can we use fashion and beauty to represent our most authentic selves?
There is so much content out there today that can help you enhance your personal style. I like to find influencers who wear clothes I like or have a similar style to mine and scroll through their outfits to get inspiration. I also have a few go-to designers that I know I can always count on and I go back again and again. I think the same is true of beauty - I find it so fun to play around with makeup and try new looks. But once I find something I like and that works for me (Armani Luminous Silk Foundation or Lancome Mascara!), I keep buying it. And skincare is what makes you feel your best - its magic when you find the perfect routine.
Any tips and/or tricks to share when choosing an event dress? And/or why have you chosen to wear ONE33 Social at some of your most recent red carpet events?
I like a statement dress that will allow you to remember the event - I try to choose something different and a little bold! I also like the dress to be comfortable - if you can't sit down, the evening will not be that enjoyable! I love ONE33 Social because the dresses are gorgeous, easy to wear and they make me feel confident.
