Independent Beauty Association Appoints Dr. Akemi Ooka as Interim CEO as Don Frey Retires
Frey concludes a distinguished career in beauty innovation and association leadership; Ooka brings deep industry expertise and next-generation vision to the role.
June 20, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Ryan Nelson: 443-528-2880 | rnelson@independentbeauty.org
Independent Beauty Association Appoints Dr. Akemi Ooka as Interim CEO as Don Frey Retires
Addison, TX – The Independent Beauty Association (IBA) announced today the appointment of Dr. Akemi Ooka as Interim CEO, effective July 1. Ooka currently serves as IBA’s Vice President of Global Supply Chain and Sustainability Resources.
“Akemi’s extensive industry experience, including in product development, supply chain, and procurement leadership roles – and the keen operational and strategic vision she’s brought to IBA – make her ideally suited to lead the association forward at a pivotal moment for independent beauty businesses,” said IBA Board Chair Dan Kolhoff. “I’m excited to work with Akemi in this new capacity.”
Ooka holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and has over 20 years of experience in the CPG industry, from Fortune 500 companies to small startups. Her expertise spans product development, sourcing, and supply chain transformation at companies such as The Clorox Company, method, and J.R. Watkins. Since joining IBA in 2021, Ooka has led the association’s Global Supply Chain and Sustainability programming, education, and advocacy efforts.
Ooka will succeed Don Frey, who is retiring after more than 40 years of service in the cosmetics and personal care industry, including three years at the helm of IBA. Don built his career developing innovative products as an R&D Leader for P&G, Jafra Cosmetics, Avon, method and the Honest Company. He also served as Chair for Beauty Industry West and held advisory positions with The Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. Don served four years on the IBA Board before being appointed President.
“I want to thank Don for his exceptional leadership of IBA. He’s been a true inspiration to work alongside,” said Kolhoff. “During a critical time for our industry, as we worked to navigate the complexities of MoCRA, Don ensured our members had a strong, informed voice at the table with the FDA. He’s always recognized the profound impact of the Independent Beauty Industry—not just as an engine of entrepreneurship, but as a source of confidence and empowerment for millions. I’m deeply grateful for his dedication and vision, and I wish him the very best in this next chapter. His influence on the beauty community will be felt for years to come.”
Asked about the transition, Don commented: “As IBA continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of the Beauty Industry, I am excited to have Akemi Ooka take over leadership of the Association. Akemi represents the next generation of leaders for the industry. She is perfectly suited to make sure IBA grows and supports our members as regulations, social media, global trade, sustainability, and AI are dramatically changing how products are developed, and business is done. Akemi embodies building on the 50+ years of IBA history while embracing the new technologies of tomorrow.”
“I’m honored and energized to be assuming IBA’s helm in this moment, because challenging times for independent beauty businesses are precisely why IBA exists,” said Ooka. “IBA has an opportunity to sharpen and expand its Education and Advocacy programs, support the indie beauty community, and create new avenues to connect Members with our many resources and with each other.”
About the Independent Beauty Association
Founded in 1974, the Independent Beauty Association (IBA) is a non-profit trade association representing more than 600 entrepreneurial companies across North America. IBA supports the success of independent cosmetic and personal care businesses operating in the U.S. market through education, advocacy, and resources. Its diverse membership spans the entire beauty ecosystem—from brands, contract manufacturers, raw material and packaging suppliers to retailers and service providers in legal, regulatory, technical, and operational fields.