Merle Norman Cosmetics Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Merle Norman Cosmetics has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, brand management, product development, and market expansion.

Dedicated to high-quality skin care and makeup solutions, Merle Norman Cosmetics maintains a legacy of excellence by empowering independent studio owners and delivering premium beauty products to a global consumer base.

Leadership Roles at Merle Norman Cosmetics

  • Chief Executive Officer - Kathleen Behlen
  • President & Owner - Stephen Johnston
  • President - Sandra Lewis
  • Owner and President - Nancy Brown
  • President - Sharon Smith
  • Kathleen Behlen - Chief Executive Officer

    Kathleen Behlen, the Chief Executive Officer at Merle Norman Cosmetics, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Behlen oversees the integration of skin care innovation with retail distribution models to ensure market competitiveness. By aligning product development with consumer trends, the Chief Executive Officer drives long-term growth across North American markets. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to refine operational efficiency and brand positioning. Kathleen Behlen manages the complex supply chain requirements necessary for manufacturing high-quality cleansers and makeup removers. Through rigorous oversight of corporate initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the standard of excellence established in 1930. Behlen prioritizes sustainable expansion while fostering strong relationships with independent studio owners. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health of the company by optimizing resource allocation and scaling production capabilities to meet evolving beauty industry demands.

    Stephen Johnston - President & Owner

    Stephen Johnston, the President & Owner at Merle Norman Cosmetics, architects the foundational business model and long-term ownership strategy. Johnston focuses on the preservation of brand heritage while modernizing the manufacturing processes for skin care and makeup lines. Overseeing the fiscal health of the enterprise, the President & Owner ensures that all capital investments support the expansion of the studio network. This role requires deep engagement with product quality control to maintain the reputation of the company. Stephen Johnston drives the strategic direction of the organization by balancing traditional retail values with contemporary digital marketing needs. By monitoring global market shifts, the President & Owner identifies new opportunities for product diversification. Johnston manages the high-level governance of the company, ensuring alignment between ownership goals and operational execution. Through consistent leadership, the President & Owner sustains the competitive advantage of the brand within the crowded cosmetics manufacturing sector.

    Sandra Lewis - President

    Sandra Lewis, the President at Merle Norman Cosmetics, directs the operational execution of the company's retail and distribution strategies. Lewis oversees the daily management of the studio support systems, ensuring that independent owners receive the necessary tools for success. By streamlining the supply chain for exfoliators and cleansers, the President optimizes inventory turnover and product availability. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional managers to enhance the customer experience across all touchpoints. Sandra Lewis drives the implementation of new sales initiatives designed to increase market penetration in key territories. Through the analysis of consumer feedback, the President refines product offerings to better serve diverse skin care needs. Lewis manages the cross-functional teams responsible for maintaining the high standards of the brand. Ultimately, the President ensures that the operational framework supports the company's mission of providing premium beauty solutions to a loyal and growing customer base.

    Nancy Brown - Owner and President

    Nancy Brown, the Owner and President at Merle Norman Cosmetics, architects the brand identity and long-term growth trajectory. Brown focuses on the strategic development of the product portfolio, ensuring that every cleanser and makeup item meets rigorous quality standards. Overseeing the expansion of the studio network, the Owner and President drives initiatives that empower local entrepreneurs to succeed. This role involves deep involvement in the creative direction of the company, ensuring that the brand remains relevant in a competitive market. Nancy Brown manages the relationships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment on corporate objectives. By fostering a culture of innovation, the Owner and President encourages the development of new skin care technologies. Brown monitors the performance of the manufacturing division to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Through dedicated leadership, the Owner and President secures the future of the company while honoring the historical commitment to quality beauty products.

    Sharon Smith - President

    Sharon Smith, the President at Merle Norman Cosmetics, directs the marketing and brand engagement strategies for the organization. Smith oversees the development of campaigns that highlight the efficacy of the company's skin care and makeup products. By analyzing market data, the President identifies emerging trends and adjusts promotional efforts to capture new demographics. This leadership role involves managing the digital presence of the brand to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms. Sharon Smith drives the collaboration between the marketing department and the product development team to ensure that new launches resonate with consumers. Through the oversight of brand communications, the President maintains the integrity and prestige of the company. Smith manages the budget for advertising and promotional activities to maximize return on investment. Ultimately, the President ensures that the brand remains a leader in the cosmetics industry by consistently delivering value and quality to the end consumer.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Merle Norman Cosmetics Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Merle Norman Cosmetics?
    Merle Norman Cosmetics is led by Kathleen Behlen (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Stephen Johnston (President & Owner) and Sandra Lewis (President).
    Who is part of Merle Norman Cosmetics’s executive team?
    The executive team of Merle Norman Cosmetics includes leaders such as Kathleen Behlen (Chief Executive Officer), Stephen Johnston (President & Owner), Sandra Lewis (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Merle Norman Cosmetics have?
    Merle Norman Cosmetics has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Merle Norman Cosmetics’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Merle Norman Cosmetics includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Owner, President, Owner and President, President.