L’Oréal USA Chairman to Receive Circle of Champions Award

L’Oréal USA Chairman David Greenberg will receive The Fragrance Foundation’s (TFF) Circle of Champions Award at its annual autumn event on 20 October.

The event, held in New York City, recognises beauty leaders who have significantly contributed to the growth and innovation of the US fragrance industry.

Greenberg was praised for his leadership, which TFF said drove a more than 50% increase in US sales for L’Oréal’s luxury fragrance portfolio.

His work outpaced the market by nearly 7% while championing collaboration across fragrance houses, retailers and higher education.

“As one of the industry's highest honours, David joins a notable group of leaders recognised for shaping the future of fragrance through innovation, inclusion and impact,” a L’Oréal company statement read.

The TFF’s Circle of Champions Award was established in 2000, with the late Leonard Lauder, Chairman Emeritus of Estée Lauder Companies, the first recipient.

Carol Hamilton, a longtime L’Oréal luxury executive who oversaw Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren Fragrances, received the award in 2019.

Pamela Baxter, former President and CEO of LVMH Perfumes & Cosmetics North America, was recognised in 2016.

TFF was founded in 1949 by Chanel, Coty, Elizabeth Arden, Guerlain and Helena Rubinstein.

The organisation is structured around three strategic pillars: education, inspiration, and celebration.

Education promotes lifelong learning for consumers and industry professionals.

Inspiration shows diverse fragrance brands, individuals and emerging trends to the community.

Celebration honours creativity and diversity driving the fragrance industry forward.

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Leadership and Industry Impact

David Greenberg’s leadership has been key in advancing L’Oréal’s fragrance division, with sales growth exceeding market performance by nearly 7%. His focus on cross-sector collaboration has strengthened industry ties, reflecting a strategic emphasis on unity across fragrance houses, retailers and academic institutions. The TFF award highlights his role in shaping innovation and inclusion within the US fragrance landscape.

Award History and Prestige

Established in 2000, the Circle of Champions Award recognises lifetime contributions to fragrance innovation. Leonard Lauder was the inaugural recipient, followed by Carol Hamilton in 2019 and Pamela Baxter in 2016. The award shows TFF’s commitment to honouring leaders who have shaped the industry’s trajectory through sustained impact.

Strategic Pillars of TFF

TFF’s framework centres on three pillars: education, which build lifelong learning for consumers and professionals; inspiration, which highlights emerging brands and trends; and celebration, which champions creativity and diversity. These pillars guide the organisation’s mission to advance the fragrance industry’s growth and cultural relevance.

Industry Recognition and Broader Context

Greenberg’s honour aligns with TFF’s recognition of influential figures in fragrance. His award follows a trend of celebrating leaders who drive both commercial success and industry evolution, as seen in past recipients like Hamilton and Baxter. The event also precedes the 25th Pure Beauty Awards, scheduled for 15 October 2026 in London, further emphasising TFF’s role in global beauty industry milestones.