Moda Operandi expands into beauty, appoints beauty chief

By

Benjamin Fitzgerald

Published
May 12, 2022

Moda Operandi confirmed on Wednesday reports it has officially expanded into beauty, a move that has prompted the fashion platform to appoint its first-ever beauty chief.

The New York-based company said it has appointed Jessica Matlin as director of beauty, reporting directly to April Hennig, Moda Operandi’s chief merchandising officer. In this newly created position,

Matlin will be responsible for developing the go-to market strategy for the beauty category, which includes brand curation, vendor relations and establishing Moda Operandi’s point of differentiation. She will also collaborate closely with the marketing and creative teams on editorial messaging, influencer campaigns, and event activation strategy.

“Beauty is the logical next step for Moda. Our customer comes to us for our curated point of view on personal style across fashion, fine jewelry and home. With the launch of this category, Moda will become a complete lifestyle destination," said co-founder and chief brand officer Lauren Santo Domingo.

“We’re excited to work with Jessica Matlin, a true beauty innovator respected for her authoritative voice and sharp perspective.”

Prior to joining Moda Operandi, Matlin served as the beauty director of Harper's Bazaar. Previously,
Matlin served as beauty and health director at Teen Vogue, as beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, Allure, and W, and has consulted for a number of global brands within the beauty category.

Matlin also currently co-hosts her own podcast, Fat Mascara, which has over 8 million downloads.

In the last twelve months, Moda Operandi has been on a journey consolidating and strengthening its leadership team. In May last year, the company appointed interim CEO Jim Gold to the role of permanent CEO; one month later appointing Dermott Sullivan and Don Allen in the newly created roles of chief operating officer and chief information officer, respectively. 

Most recently, in July, Moda named April Hennig as senior vice president and chief merchandising officer.