BCL Leadership

Phil Horvath is currently the COO at Peachy the premier Botox studio chain in the United States and joined the organization in January of 2025. Phil has more than 30 years of beauty and salon industry experience, having worked as President and CEO of Chatters based in Toronto Canada (2023 to 2025). Prior to that he served as President and COO of Floyds 99 Barbershops (2021 to 2023) and at Ratner Companies (dba Hair Cuttery – 2016 to 2021). Phil also spent 18 years at ULTA Beauty as an Operations executive helping them scale and grow to over 1,000 locations from 66 locations. Phil has experience in leading aggressive growth in both the service and retail sides of the hair salon business. Prior to ULTA Beauty, he held positions in the Supercuts division of Regis Corporation. He began his professional beauty career at Denver-based Calco Hair, Inc., serving President of the family business. Phil was raised in a family of hair salon professionals. Phil’s vast knowledge of all aspects of the beauty and salon business and his ability to think strategically has made him a sought-after executive in the Beauty industry. His experience and results-oriented approach with both small and large companies has driven positive results for each company for which he has worked. Phil has a passion for this industry. He understands the importance of focusing on the development of its people and holds the core belief that we can help others achieve their dreams and goals. For Phil, business has to be about purpose and people and then prosperity will follow. He enjoys spending time with his two sons who both live in Chicago and having grown up in Colorado, Phil is an avid skier and enjoys cycling.

Karen is Chief Operating Officer for Universal Companies, a wholesale distributor, who for more than 35 years, has served thousands of spa and wellness professionals in 47 countries.  Prior to assuming the role of CEO, Karen was SVP Sales & Marketing, responsible for all direct sales, marketing and education initiatives.  As CEO, Karen’s objective is to foster a culture of entrepreneurial change and growth with primary focus on the customer. She leads a team of professionals who continually identify products and solutions for spa and wellness professionals and leverage digital technology to deliver customer value. Prior to joining Universal, Karen had an extensive background in executive leadership in the hospitality industry and built a successful track record of executing aggressive growth strategies ranging from sales-focused and market-driven organizations to growth through mergers and acquisitions. She has held executive positions with a range of customer centric organizations including President and Chief Hospitality Officer of Quintess Collections, Founder and Chair of InnPerspectives Inc., Director of Sales and Marketing Meadowood Napa Valley, and Vice President of Sales Aspen Skiing Company. She has also served on number of Boards including Beauty Changes Lives, Past Chair for the Green Spa Network, Napa Valley Visitors and Conference Bureau and Aspen Resort Association.

Mike Alexander is the CEO of Borboleta Beauty and a proven leader with over 15 years of experience driving growth and innovation in the beauty industry. With an MBA from Westminster College and a foundation in sales and marketing, Mike brings a strategic, results-oriented approach to business development and brand building. Mike‘s past experience with PMD Beauty played a crucial role in transforming the company from a startup into a globally recognized brand. Mike now leads Borboleta Beauty as CEO – an industry leader in professional lash education and products.

Mike’s board service reflects his broad leadership and governance expertise, with roles at the American Lash Association, World Trade Center Utah, and The Road Home. His passion for education and industry advancement fuels his commitment to initiatives like Beauty Changes Lives and efforts to elevate and protect cosmetology programs nationwide.

A lifelong advocate for the power of beauty to transform lives and careers, Mike lives in Highland, Utah, with his wife and five children. On the weekends, you’ll find him boating, riding his horse, snowboarding, or enjoying time in the mountains with his family.

Charles is a visionary entrepreneur renowned for transforming the beauty industry. As the CEO of CLICS, he, and the CLICS team, introduced the first computer-controlled hair color dispenser and mixable color line for professional salons. Charles’ innovative approach revolutionized salon operations, enhancing precision and efficiency in color formulation. With a background in technology and business leadership, he has not only pioneered groundbreaking beauty solutions but also holds a track record of success in founding and managing technology ventures. Charles continues to inspire innovation in the beauty sector, leveraging his expertise to drive advancements that redefine industry standards.

Martin is an experienced education executive with over 25 years of educational leadership in the US, Europe, and Australia. He excels at building modernized, high-performance education teams that build brand loyalty, and growth, through the power of education and stylist connection.

Martin is a Hairdresser at heart and never forgets his roots. “I am eternally grateful for the many mentors that took the time to share their skills and knowledge.”

It is this that forged his passion for education and the growth of fellow Hairdressers.

Katelyn Macy-Sandoval is an accomplished COO with a wealth of experience in the skincare industry. As the COO of Circadia, she oversees the company’s day-to-day operations in all departments, including financial, strategic, marketing, sales, formulation and general operations. As a thought-leader, Katelyn’s primary mission is to foster innovation, ensure operational efficiency, and drive growth, solidifying Circadia as an authority in the skin care industry.

Katelyn’s passion for skincare started early in her career when she worked as a licensed esthetician. Her extensive knowledge of skin and science combined with a deep understanding of esthetician needs have made her an invaluable asset as an educator, mentor, and industry leader. Her ability to translate customer needs into actionable strategies has enabled Circadia to continuously improve its products and services, earning its’ position as one of the most respected names in the industry.

Under Katelyn’s leadership, Circadia has grown and expanded significantly, gaining a solid foothold in the global skincare market, allowing Circadia’s products to get into the hands of skin care professionals worldwide. Her strategic vision and commitment to international relations has allowed her to drive the company’s success abroad, while her innovative approach to product development and education has perfectly positioned Circadia as a leading brand domestically.

April McCoy is the Senior Director of National Accounts at Reuzel, a position she has held since 2023. Previously, April served as Vice President at Ecofibre Limited, where she was pivotal in expanding sales and market presence for high-quality hemp products, generating substantial revenue through strategic partnerships and launches. Her career also includes significant achievements as Senior Director of Sales at Cosmo Prof Beauty, where she led chain account sales growth across North America, managed a large team, and significantly boosted ecommerce sales. April’s expertise in sales strategy and business development is further demonstrated through her consultancy work with ALM Consulting. Committed to giving back, she is actively involved with the Beauty Changes Lives board, supporting the next generation of beauty professionals. Outside the office, April can be found with her horse or exploring the world with her friends and family.

Megan Murray is the Vice President of Events and In-Store Experiences at Ulta Beauty, where she leads strategies that create impactful, high-touch experiences for guests and associates, both in-store and across internal and industry-facing events. Her work spans salon, events,  pro industry publications, and major programs like Ulta Beauty World.

With over a decade of retail leadership experience at companies like Target and JCPenney (including Sephora and Salon divisions), Megan is known for her high-energy, results-driven approach and passion for building top-performing teams and culture.

Outside of Ulta Beauty, she serves on the Board of Beauty Changes Lives and leads the Mentorship Matters program, supporting the next generation of beauty professionals.

Megan holds a bachelor’s in Public Relations and a master’s in Marketing from the University of Alabama, where she also captained the volleyball team. She’s a proud working mom of two and is passionate about driving impact while creating space for connection and growth.

Edwin Neill, CEO of the Neill Companies is responsible for the overall strategy and business of Neill, including the primary businesses of Aveda Distribution, Aveda Arts and Sciences Institutes, Neill Fulfilment and Paris Parker Salons. Active in all areas of the business, his previous roles with Neill have included Distribution Management, Executive Vice President and CFO.

Prior to rejoining his family business, Edwin practiced commercial litigation at the New Orleans law firm of Stone Pigman.  He served as the Chairman of the Louisiana Board of Cosmetology and is a past president of the International Spa Association Foundation and past board member of the Professional Beauty Association.  He is also a director and officer of the Salon and Spa Relief Fund.

Chelsea Riggs is the CEO and founding member of amika, one of the largest independent premium haircare brands in the U.S. Over her 15-year tenure, Chelsea’s entrepreneurial approach has propelled amika to become the #5 US Prestige Haircare Brand (Circana/NPD) & #4 US Salon Brand (Kline Pro).

At the core of Chelsea’s leadership is a deep commitment to building a brand that embodies authenticity and purpose. She has shaped amika into a champion for hair, hairstylists, people, and the planet—earning it B Corp certification and Clean+Planet Positive status at Sephora, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Since 2016, Chelseaand amika have also supported HairToStay, raising over $1 million to help those undergoing chemotherapy, and Chelseaserves on its board.

Her leadership has earned amika accolades such as Great Place to Work in 2023 and 2024, and recognition as an Ad Age Breakout Brand Leader in 2023. The brand also secured a spot on the WWD Power Brands list in 2020, 2023, and 2024.

Chelsea is passionate about creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in beauty, directing over $500,000 annually into scholarships, grants, and mentorship programs. She led amika through its acquisition by Bansk Group in 2022, ensuring the brand’s continued growth while staying true to its mission of inclusivity and positive impact.

Charlie Quy Ton’s journey from a young Vietnamese refugee to a pioneering American entrepreneur is a powerful testament to resilience, vision, and innovation. Fleeing Vietnam in 1985 aboard a small wooden boat, Ton endured a perilous 3,000-mile journey before finding refuge in the Philippines and eventually resettling in New Orleans. After graduating from West Jefferson High School and attending Louisiana State University, a pivotal shift from chemical engineering to business set the stage for his entrepreneurial path. In 1995, Ton founded Alfalfa Nail Supply, quickly establishing a reputation for quality and customer service. Today, Alfalfa Nail Supply is not only one of the largest nail product distributors in the country but also a full-scale manufacturing company, producing high-quality nail care products and equipment. His vision expanded with the creation of Regal Nails, an innovative franchise model that brought nail salons into Wal-Mart stores, revolutionizing the salon industry by merging convenience with accessibility. Through ventures like Regal Nails, CDJ Ventures LLC, and continued growth of Alfalfa Nail Supply, Ton has consistently demonstrated a keen ability to identify market gaps and deliver value-driven solutions. His unwavering commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and product innovation has left a lasting impact on multiple industries, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs.

Jana Westerbeke, daughter of Pam McNair-Wingate, grew up in the hustle and excitement of the beauty industry. As Gadabout SalonSpa’s first intern, Jana discovered her true passion in life. Through the creativity of hairdressing, she found she could touch people’s lives in many ways and as a Gadabout stylist, educator, director, and Co-President/CEO she knows that the more she gives back, teaches, inspires, and shares her knowledge and gifts, the more she learns and receives in life.

Working side by side with her mother, Jana helped to create the vision and philosophy that is Gadabout SalonSpas. In 2005, the torch was passed from mother to daughter, and today, as Co President / CEO at Gadabout SalonSpas, Jana carries on the high standards of excellence instilled in her by her mother in those early years. Under her leadership and passion, a second salon brand, VerVe Salons, was created as a more organic approach to beauty and wellness. Legendary guest experiences continue to keep this award-winning company with 6 diverse locations strong. Jana inspires and helps to develop customer service programs and standards that create the Gadabout experience. She empowers her team to achieve their maximum potential in every aspect of their lives and to realize the positive difference they can make in other people’s lives through their work. Jana is inspired every day by their success. “I am here to coach and lead so others can succeed. When others reach their goals, it is my hope that they will want to “pay it forward” to continue the growth cycle in this world we are blessed to live in.”

Katelyn Macy-Sandoval is an accomplished COO with a wealth of experience in the skincare industry. As the COO of Circadia, she oversees the company’s day-to-day operations in all departments, including financial, strategic, marketing, sales, formulation and general operations. As a thought-leader, Katelyn’s primary mission is to foster innovation, ensure operational efficiency, and drive growth, solidifying Circadia as an authority in the skin care industry.

Katelyn’s passion for skincare started early in her career when she worked as a licensed esthetician. Her extensive knowledge of skin and science combined with a deep understanding of esthetician needs have made her an invaluable asset as an educator, mentor, and industry leader. Her ability to translate customer needs into actionable strategies has enabled Circadia to continuously improve its products and services, earning its’ position as one of the most respected names in the industry.

Under Katelyn’s leadership, Circadia has grown and expanded significantly, gaining a solid foothold in the global skincare market, allowing Circadia’s products to get into the hands of skin care professionals worldwide. Her strategic vision and commitment to international relations has allowed her to drive the company’s success abroad, while her innovative approach to product development and education has perfectly positioned Circadia as a leading brand domestically.

Karen is Chief Operating Officer for Universal Companies, a wholesale distributor, who for more than 35 years, has served thousands of spa and wellness professionals in 47 countries.  Prior to assuming the role of CEO, Karen was SVP Sales & Marketing, responsible for all direct sales, marketing and education initiatives.  As CEO, Karen’s objective is to foster a culture of entrepreneurial change and growth with primary focus on the customer. She leads a team of professionals who continually identify products and solutions for spa and wellness professionals and leverage digital technology to deliver customer value. Prior to joining Universal, Karen had an extensive background in executive leadership in the hospitality industry and built a successful track record of executing aggressive growth strategies ranging from sales-focused and market-driven organizations to growth through mergers and acquisitions. She has held executive positions with a range of customer centric organizations including President and Chief Hospitality Officer of Quintess Collections, Founder and Chair of InnPerspectives Inc., Director of Sales and Marketing Meadowood Napa Valley, and Vice President of Sales Aspen Skiing Company. She has also served on number of Boards including Beauty Changes Lives, Past Chair for the Green Spa Network, Napa Valley Visitors and Conference Bureau and Aspen Resort Association.

Lisa joined Beauty Changes Lives as Executive Director in 2023 bringing experience across the retail and non-profit sectors and feeling at home in the Beauty and Wellness industries. After a successful career in retail management with major and luxury brands including Giorgio Armani and Victoria’s Secret, Lisa shifted her focus to her passion of helping others through work with non-profit organizations where her leadership has had a meaningful and positive impact on many lives. Lisa successfully led community engagement and development for the Arthritis Foundation of South Florida and served as Executive Director of Second Chance Initiative where she developed the “Wellness Works” program which teaches self-care and provides job skill training and mentorship to women facing obstacles to employment.  

Lisa resides in sunny Florida where she enjoys the beach and yoga and focuses on her most important role as proud mom to her two teenagers and rescue dog. She is excited to lead the organization into its next phase of growth! 

Contact: Lisa@Beautychangeslives.org

A licensed cosmetologist herself, Meghan is savvy in the art and business of beauty. The salon owner and beauty industry consultant previously served in corporate marketing and management roles with Sally Beauty Holdings, Beauty Systems Group. Meghan’s career has evolved in lockstep with communications channels and platforms transforming the beauty landscape. Her experience in digital strategy spans diverse communications channels, platforms and communities. Part communicator, part analyst, this Texan keeps her ear tuned to the voice of beauty professionals and her thumb on the pulse of the industry.

Contact: Meghan@beautychangeslives.org

Christie brings to her role a rich and diverse background in the professional beauty space, including experience developing educational programs and managing scholarships for various industry associations and partners. While Christie’s role at Beauty Changes Lives  is new, she has long been a supporter of Beauty Changes Lives events and programs. As Scholarship Program Manager, Christie will draw on a rich background producing digital and real-world educational content development and event planning and execution. Throughout her years in the industry, Christie has cultivated deep connections with industry leaders in the cosmetics, esthetics, and nail sectors.

Contact: Christie@beautychangeslives.org

Beth is a beauty industry enthusiast with a robust community outreach and recruitment background, bringing her passion for the beauty industry to our mission at BCL. A licensed Esthetician, Beth is knowledgeable about skincare, cosmetics, and spas. She loves to nurture connections with beauty schools, salons, and spas, as she did in previous roles in community outreach, career services, and admissions at Bellus Academy. A proud Army spouse and dedicated volunteer in the military community, Beth calls sunny southern California home, where she and her family share a love for hockey and Disneyland.

Contact: Beth@beautychangeslives.org