Kao Corporation today announced the appointment of Michael Parsons as General Manager, Kao Professional Hair, North America, a newly established leadership position that brings together responsibility for the company's Professional Hair business across the United States and Canada. In this role, Parsons will oversee Sales, Marketing and Education, driving growth across Kao's professional salon, distributor, retail and e-commerce channels while advancing the company's long-term vision for the North American market.

"Mike's appointment reflects the strength of his leadership and the impact he has made across our business over many years," said Joe Workman, President, Consumer Care Business AEMEA and President, Kao USA. "His unique combination of commercial expertise, strategic vision and deep industry knowledge will be invaluable as we strengthen collaboration across North America and accelerate growth across our professional, retail and digital channels."

Over the course of more than three decades with Kao, Parsons has held a broad range of leadership positions, developing expertise across sales, marketing, education, commercial strategy and general management. His diverse experiences across functions, markets and business disciplines have shaped a holistic understanding of the professional beauty industry and strengthened his ability to lead complex organizations, cultivate high-performing teams and deliver sustainable growth.

As a longstanding member of the North American and Americas leadership teams, Parsons has also played an instrumental role in advancing strategic initiatives and strengthening the company's position across the region. This appointment reflects Kao's commitment to a more integrated North American strategy, enabling greater collaboration, agility and alignment across key markets and channels.

"I am honored to take on this expanded leadership role and excited about the opportunities ahead for our Professional Hair business across North America," said Parsons. "Our success is built on the strength of our people, our iconic brands and the partnerships we have developed across salons, distribution, retail and digital commerce. I look forward to working alongside our teams and partners to accelerate growth, unlock new opportunities and deliver even greater value to the professionals, businesses and consumers we serve."

Parsons' appointment follows the planned retirement of Trevor Attenborough after 17 years with Kao.

About Kao Professional Hair

Kao Professional Hair is part of Kao Corporation, offering professional products and services to stylists around the globe. As a thought and trend leader in the hair care industry, it is home to the Goldwell, Oribe, KMS Hair and Kerasilk brands. Kao Professional Hair is dedicated to making life beautiful for salons, stylists and consumers through partnership, innovation, education and a commitment to sustainable growth. For more information, visit www.kao.com.