The Independent Beauty Association (IBA) appointed Dr. Akemi Ooka as interim CEO, effective July 1. Ooka currently serves as IBA’s VP-global supply chain and sustainability resources. She succeeds Don Frey, who is retiring.

“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 PhD in chemistry. She has more than 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 JR Watkins. Since joining IBA in 2021, Ooka has led the association’s global supply chain and sustainability programming, educationand advocacy efforts.

Ooka succeeds Don Frey, who is retiring after more than 40 years of service in the cosmetics and personal care industry. For the past three years he’s served as IBA CEO. During his career, Frey created 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. Frey 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.