Conscious that the professional beauty industry serves millions of women, L’Oreal is busy filling many of its top positions with strong, powerful female leaders and recently announced two impressive new appointments:

Kristina Schake: One of the newest members of the L’Oreal leadership team, Schake assumes the role of L’Oreal USA chief communications officer. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University, Schake was the co-founder and principal of Griffin|Schake, a California-based public affairs and strategic communications firm that specialized in bringing about social change through policy, legislative, social marketing and media initiatives.

After many years of impressive accomplishments, Schake’s work drew the attention of the White House, and she was appointed as communications director for First Lady Michelle Obama. Now, Schake is committed to communicating the corporate story and raising the profile of L’Oreal in the United States.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to have Kristina as a communication’s partner,” says Pat Parenty, L’Oreal president. “She is committed to assisting us in our vision.” (CLICK! Visit salontoday.com to see Schake’s “Lessons for Stylists from the White House.”)

Laurie Lam: After a successful stint abroad where she oversaw the L’Oreal Professional’s brand for the Asia-Pacific region, Lam joins Matrix as vice president of marketing and will be responsible for the growth and development of the brand. Lam joined L’Oreal USA in July 2003 and held several marketing positions, most notably as the director behind the L’Oreal centennial launch of INOA hairolor in 2010. During her time in L’Oreal France, Lam acted as a liaison for L’Oreal Professionnel and was responsible for the implementation of strategies across the Asian markets in her charge.

Lam holds a bachelor of science degree in marketing and was a L’Oreal-sponsored graduate in the Fashion Institiute of Technology’s Master of Professional Studies in Cosmetic and Fragrance Marketing and Management program, where she graduated as valedictorian and was appointed the program’s alumni chairperson.

“Laurie’s passion for the salon industry, global knowledge base, strong work ethic and vibrant style position her for great success in this exciting new role,” says Paul Schiraldi, vice president and general manager for Matrix.