Heela Yang  

Since launching Sol de Janeiro in the summer of 2015 with just three products with former co-founders, Marc Capra & Camila Pierotti, Heela Yang has led the brand to become a global body care phenomenon. Founded with the mission to spark self-celebration and joy through the power and the warmth of the Brazilian spirit, the brand has established a cult status under Yang’s stewardship, growing into a company with just over 30 products and an estimated global retail sales of $1 billion in 2023. In 2021, L’OCCITANE acquired a majority stake in the brand. Joining L’OCCITANE Group marked a significant chapter, marrying Sol de Janeiro’s vibrant ethos with L’OCCITANE’s sustainability leadership, paving the way for thoughtful expansion.

Prior to Sol de Janeiro, Heela’s career followed a diverse and dynamic trajectory, encompassing various sectors including politics, academia, investment banking, and ultimately culminating in the beauty industry. Heela spent 12 years in the beauty industry with an extensive track record of success at leading global brands such as Lancôme (L’Oréal) and Clinique (Estee Lauder Companies).