The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
The biggest challenge for me has been shifting from pharmaceutical development and manufacturing to the cosmetics industry, and to establish my new business in this sector. Even though I have nearly 20 years’ experience in the pharmaceutical industry, I have found it difficult to change industries. To gain credibility in the cosmetics industry, I have had to embark on further education. After completing a Diploma to become a cosmetic chemist, I often take time to attend lectures, webinars, conferences and industry days to network, learn about new and innovative ingredients, and to keep up with the latest trends. I am also a member of the Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I am happiest when I am in my laboratory formulating and testing. I’m very grateful to be able to be doing a job I created, and absolutely love doing it. It’s awesome being able to utilise things that I have learnt from my studies, and during my employment in the pharmaceuticals sector to increase my earning potential.
The biggest con for me is having to do absolutely everything related to running a small business. Things like e-commerce, website creation and management, organising the logistics related to imports, invoicing and raising purchase orders were just a few of the things I had to learn how to do effectively. Sometimes I find it takes me longer to do things I am not very familiar with. It hampers my creativity when I feel bogged down with administrative work, so I often break up this work into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Hopes and dreams: what next?
Currently I am working with my local council to scale up my business. My goal for this next expansion stage is to set up a larger space for product manufacturing, with a dedicated cleanroom for contract manufacturing. I am looking to apply for a small business grant to assist with the purchase of some more laboratory equipment to expand my laboratory testing capabilities. Once this space has been set up, I will be working towards gaining accreditation for my laboratory and employing staff to help with daily operations.
Visit the Formulation Advisory Cosmetic Testing Service (F.A.C.T.S) website to find out more, and connect with them on Instagram and Facebook.
