How did you begin your career in the beauty industry?

My first role within the beauty industry was an internship as a Marketing Assistant for Guerlain. I was very fortunate to be given the opportunity as part of my placement year even though I was competing against graduates. After 6 months in the role, I was offered a permanent position with the brand as Marketing Co-ordinator. At the time this meant having to choose work over university and after much deliberation I chose to defer my final year and carry on working. At the time it was nerve wracking and questionable as to whether it was the right thing to do. It wasn’t the done thing, and of course everyone had an opinion. But now, when I look back, it was the best thing I ever did for my career. After a full year as Marketing Co-ordinator, I decided to go back to university and finish my final year part time. This meant working 4 days a week and studying one day a week for 2 years. It was stressful and relentless, but it had to be done in my quest to complete my degree and climb the career ladder at the same time.

What inspired you to join Illamasqua?

I’ve been working in the beauty industry for 10 years and Illamasqua since it first burst onto the beauty scene has been a brand with a voice and an opinion. Challenging the conventions of beauty and what it stands for, for all of us. And in a society where the majority confirm to one vision or type of beauty, Illamasqua empowers individuals no matter what age, race or gender to determine what beauty is to them, without being dictated to. A beautiful brand, with a powerful message and determination to make a difference in society.

How do you begin your day with a positive attitude?

Most mornings I start off with a 15-20 meditation. Its sets me up perfectly for the day. It helps to ensure I take on the day with a calm and collected mindset. If I get up early enough, I will do 20 mins of yoga too. Well, more ‘light stretching’ than yoga. I soon learnt the importance of this with a demanding, fast paced job. My role involves a lot of people management, so it is important that I am calm and centred, to manage and work with others in the most effective way.

What beauty product is your source of power?

My ultimate source of power product is <a href="https://www.lookfantastic.com/illamasqua-hydra-veil-primer-30ml/11264666.html" target="_blank">Illamasqua’s Hydra Veil</a>. Perfect for priming, hydrating and smoothing my skin. It is easy to use and comes in a futuristic clear gel formula. Closely followed by <a href="https://www.lookfantastic.com/illamasqua-skin-base-foundation/11264625.html" target="_blank">Skinbase Foundation</a> in 5.5. The Illamusthave power duo of Hydra Veil and Skinbase leaves my complexion looking fresh and flawless all day! Which is a must being on the go all the time!

What advice do you have for women starting out their careers?

Be open to the different opportunities that may arise or come your way. Connect with people in your desired industry, attend talks, seminars and events. Networking is an important part of starting out in any career.

What future ventures are in the pipeline?

Future ventures career wise are going to be more internationally focused. We are continuing to grow and expand into new markets which is extremely exciting! So I will be travelling a lot more in the coming months.

What, for you, is the best thing about being a woman?

The best thing about being a woman is being able to express diversity. I can be caring and feminine, I can be vulnerable yet strong, bold yet soft, determined and compassionate.

Who is your female role model?

I have too many to name and all for different reasons! I am fortunate to have many incredible strong, caring, kind, funny, loving, inspirational women in my life. The women who have helped shape me in to becoming the woman I am today. I also admire and respect the incredible strength and determination of women such as Malala Yousafzai, Chimamanda Ngozi and Emma Watson.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

There is a whole world out there. Go see it, explore it, experience it and be a part of it!

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DISCOVER

Powerful Women: Sophie Lansbury, Illamasqua

Sophie Lansbury is responsible for Illamasqua's marketing direction, or as she is known at the brand: "Director of International Sales and New Markets."

Driving Illamasqua forward to continue the brand's creative strategy, Sophie has an integral role that ensures Illamasqua grows and keeps delivering exciting new innovations.

We managed to secure an exlcusive interview with her to discuss everything about her career and the aspirations for the brand moving forward.

A Q&A with Sophie Lansbury, Director of International Sales and New Markets at Illamasqua

Team LF Writer and expert

Our team of beauty experts cover everything from makeup to skincare, picking out the most effective products from the best brands and latest trends. Stay up to date on everything beauty with the LOOKFANTASTIC blog, and find all your essentials in one place.