Meet the Executive Team

Christopher Novak

President, Chief Creative Officer

Christopher Novak, with over 25 years of retail experience, leads Rennaï's strategic vision as President and Chief Creative Officer, infusing innovation and purpose into every aspect of the brand.

His passion for diversity and inclusion, combined with his quest for excellence, truly shines through at Rennaï. His journey, marked by innovative leadership, is a testament to his dedication to transformative initiatives within the beauty industry. Rennaï sta nds as a beacon of this vision, where Christopher's leadership naturally aligns with the brand's ethos of pushing creative boundaries and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community.

Hi Christopher! What an honour it is to have you as our President and Chief Creative Officer at Rennaï! Can you share with our community what your role entails?

As President and Chief Creative Officer, I lead Rennaï's strategic vision, infusing every aspect of our brand with innovation, excellence, and a customer-first mindset.

What has your professional experience been like before joining Rennaï?

Before joining Rennaï, my 25 years in retail were fueled by a passion for igniting the energy of a store and crafting inspiring experiences for every customer. My journey, from an enthusiastic sales associate to an executive leader, has been marked by the cultivation of collaborative relationships and a commitment to continuous learning. In every position, the growth and well-being of my team have been essential, ensuring every voice is heard.

What drew you to the beauty industry? What inspired you to join Rennaï?

The allure of the beauty industry for me has always been its boundless creativity, the personal connections built, and the joy of helping people realize their beauty aspirations. Rennaï captivates with its commitment to create deep, meaningful connections, moving beyond mere transactions. This is where I see an opportunity to build a new narrative, to lead a movement that isn't just about products but about empowering every individual to embrace and celebrate their own unique beauty.

How do you incorporate and prioritize self-care in your daily routine?

Self-care for me is an exploratory journey – it is about quiet moments, new experiences, and familiar places. It’s about embracing what makes you, you, and ensuring you are nurturing your mind, body, and soul.

After years of working in the beauty industry, what do you find to be most rewarding?

The most exhilarating reward is seeing the transformative power of beauty in people's lives. At Rennaï, we don't just sell products; we empower, educate, and inspire, cultivating confidence and joy in our community.

What is your personal mantra that guides your approach to beauty, wellness, and self-care?

My personal mantra is "Honor your uniqueness, elevate your spirit, and grow in your truth". My commitment to self-care is fostering a world where every self is seen and celebrated.

Thank you very much Christopher! We can't wait to see how Rennaï grows under your leadership!
Christopher Novak
Christopher Novak

Cathy Cockerton

VP Finance and Operations

Cathy Cockerton, VP of Finance and Operations at Rennaï, brings over 30 years of retail expertise to the team, collaborating to lead multiple departments at Rennaï including Talent and Culture, Finance and Store Operations, as well as a focus on IT and E-commerce.

Hi Cathy! We are thrilled to have you on board at Rennaï as our Veep of Finance and Operations! In one quick sentence, can you explain to our community what that means?

In my role as the VP of Finance and Operations, I oversee the leadership of Talent and Culture, IT/E-commerce, Finance, and Store Operations. Surrounded by exceptional talent across these functional areas, my mission is to empower their creativity and business acumen to shape our brand to stand as a global beacon for modern self-care. I am dedicated to serving my team, facilitating their impact, ensuring their involvement in meaningful endeavours, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and performance excellence.

What was your professional experience like before joining Rennaï?

I bring over three decades of invaluable experience in the retail industry, spanning across retail specialty, big box, and department stores with top brands nationwide. It’s been quite a ride!

That’s amazing! Congrats! What motivated you to join the beauty and self-care industry?

Driven by an irresistible urge, I embraced the opportunity to pioneer an unprecedented brand centred on experiential self-care. Joining Rennaï marked a transformative milestone in my professional odyssey, igniting inspiration and purpose. I count myself blessed to be immersed in a circle of dedicated colleagues whose boundless talent and unwavering commitment propel our business forward with each passing day.

And what would you say is your ultimate goal?

I aspire to carve out a pathway for our clients, offering sanctuaries where they can immerse themselves in self-care. Through crafting unforgettable routines, we empower individuals to unveil their true essence and express their finest selves.

What does self-care mean to you and how do you think it’s evolved over the years?

Self-care embodies the power of choices that you make for yourself and the act of prioritizing oneself. For me, it's been a lifelong journey to elevate self-care on my list of things to do, but over time, I've honed the skill of introspection and carving out moments for self-nurturing.

What piece of self-care advice can you share with our Rennaï community?

Elevate your ability to nourish your mind, cherish your body, and ignite your soul! In self-care, you'll discover the power to thrive and inspire others to do the same.

Love that! Thank you so much Cathy!
Cathy Cockerton
Cathy Cockerton

Jordana Fleischer

VP of Marketing and Communications

Jordana Fleischer brings over 20 years of expertise in marketing, communications, and digital content development. Passionate about fostering creativity, inclusivity, and community, she strives to make a positive impact at every turn.

Welcome Jordana! We are thrilled to have you on board and are excited to see how you’ll help Rennaï grow as a brand!

Excited to be a part of it all!

Can you share with the community what being the VP of Marketing and Communications at Rennaï entails?

Of course! I lead a dynamic team in executing strategic initiatives to connect with our audience, promote our brand, and foster meaningful relationships within our community, leveraging my extensive experience in marketing, communications, and digital content development.

What has your professional experience been like thus far?

With over 20 years of experience in marketing, communications, and digital content development, I've honed my skills as a creative problem solver, leveraging data and insights to build culturally relevant brands. Previously, I led brand direction for luxury labels, overseeing global marketing strategies and campaigns to position it as a sustainable and inclusive brand, while also championing high-performing teams and developing successful initiatives across various channels.

That is quite the resume! We’re honored to have you on board! What inspired you to join the beauty and self-care industry and why Rennaï?

My passion for art, wellness, and storytelling naturally led me to the beauty and self-care industry. I was drawn to Rennaï's commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and community, which resonated deeply with my personal values. Here, I can infuse my love for art and wellness into every facet of our dynamic brand, inspiring others to embrace their unique beauty.

What have you found to be most rewarding and fulfilling?

The most rewarding aspect of working in the beauty and self-care industry is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Whether it's empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty or fostering a sense of community and belonging, knowing that I'm contributing to their well-being brings me immense fulfillment.

How do you incorporate self-care in your daily life?

I prioritize self-care by enjoying activities that fuel my creativity and well-being. Whether it's immersing myself in art, practicing Pilates, or connecting with nature, I find moments of joy and rejuvenation that allow me to show up as my best self for both my team and our community at Rennaï.

Do you have a personal motto that guides your approach to beauty, wellness, and self-care?

My personal motto is to embrace authenticity and celebrate individuality in all aspects of life. By staying true to ourselves and honoring our unique beauty, we empower others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positivity and self-love throughout our community.

Thank you so much Jordana! Can’t wait to see your creative mind at work!
Jordana Fleischer
Jordana Fleischer

Hana Song

Vice President of Product and Merchandising

Hana brings over 20 years of expertise in fashion, lifestyle, and beauty to Rennaï, where she spearheads strategic development, procurement, and product presentation, driven by a passion for pioneering advancements in self-expression and wellness.

Hello Hana, so nice to meet you! Can you give us the scoop on what you do at Rennaï?

I’m the Vice President of Product and Merchandising, and I oversee the strategic development, procurement, and presentation of products.

What has your professional journey been like before joining the Rennaï crew?

I possess over 20 years of experience in fashion, lifestyle, and beauty, demonstrating expertise in product development and merchandising while having worked for some of the industry’s premier companies.

What drew you to the beauty and self-care industry, and why specifically Rennaï?

The beauty industry captivates with its constant evolution, blending creativity and technology to redefine standards of self-expression, fostering a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. I chose to join Rennaï because I was driven by the opportunity to contribute to shaping and pioneering advancements within the industry. Beauty shoppers are undergoing a transformation in how they perceive self-care, shifting towards a holistic approach that emphasizes not only external appearance but also wellness and authenticity.

How do you prioritize self-care and what piece of advice can you share with our community?

It can range from meaningful connections with family and friends, to playing with my dog, to having some quiet time to myself, whether it be reading a book or listening to music. It’s about flexibility and just doing something that brings you joy.

What do you love most about working in the beauty and self-care industry?

Collaborating with brand partners to explore products and innovations, gaining insights that can enhance consumer experiences, and introducing cutting-edge products to the market.

Lastly, what’s your personal motto when it comes to beauty, wellness, and self-care?

Embracing the mantra of cultivating positive thoughts. It empowers the mind, fosters resilience, and allows you to seek growth and possibilities in every situation.

We are thrilled to have you be a part of the Rennaï team!

Excited to be here!

Hana Song
Hana Song

Meet the Senior Leadership Team

Hugues Jarreault

Financial Controller

Hugues Jarreault is Rennaï's Financial Controller, responsible for managing finances and ensuring accurate reporting. With a focus on driving profitability, Hugues plays a vital role in supporting strategic decisions.

Hi Hugues, nice to meet you! Can you tell us what your current role is at Rennaï?

I’m responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial management, accounting operations, and internal finances. I ensure accurate financial reporting, drive profitability, and support strategic decision-making within Rennaï.

What drove you to join Rennaï?

I wanted to be a part of a new business adventure, especially one as groundbreaking as Rennaï. Being the first of its kind and launching in Montreal made it an exciting opportunity that presented itself!

How do you practise self-care in your daily life?

I have a quick morning routine that I like to stick to. I prefer to get a fast start to the day and hit the ground running.

What do you find most rewarding about working in the beauty and self-care industry?

What I find most rewarding about working in the beauty and self-care industry is its fundamental purpose of providing goods and services to take care of people. This goes beyond simply offering products; it's about enhancing the well-being and confidence of individuals.

What’s your mantra that guides your approach to self-care?

"Feel good."

Happy to have you on the Rennaï team!
Hugues Jarreault
Hugues Jarreault

Shannon Traylen

Senior Director, Talent and Culture

Introducing Shannon Traylen, our Senior Director of Talent and Culture, bringing extensive expertise garnered over two decades in the beauty industry. Shannon is dedicated to fostering inclusive environments and empowering individuals to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

Hello Shannon, nice to meet you! Can you tell us a little bit about your role at Rennaï?

I lead teams and develop strategies to ensure that Rennaï remains a trusted employer that offers personalized career paths, an engaging and inclusive environment, and continuous education for professional development and industry knowledge. “People first, always” is our internal compass.

Could you share a bit about your previous work experience and professional journey before joining Rennaï?

I've spent the last 20 years in the beauty industry, learning from various mentors and experiences. A good portion of my career was spent with a major beauty retailer where I led teams of various sizes within the realms of artistry, training/education, services, and retail experience strategies. I also led the multi/international brand education and independent sales strategies at Canadian beauty distributor. Before joining Rennaï, I dove headfirst into 'start-up life’ leading education, sales, and business development as Vice President of Sales for an indie brand.

What inspired you to join the world of beauty and self-care?

Since the beginning of my career in the beauty industry, my focus has always been on connecting with and inspiring others. There is a certain magic to the retail world — the clients, the team, the constant learning — something new and meaningful every day. I fell in love with the artistry of makeup at a young age because of its therapeutic nature which helped alleviate my anxiety. However, what truly captivated me was witnessing the profound impact of working and engaging with people on a deeply personal level. Makeup, haircare, skincare, and various self-care services all involve human touch and interaction. This industry allows us to curate experiences that nurture the mind, body, and soul of others, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.

After years of working in the beauty industry, what do you find to be most rewarding?

It’s the joy of witnessing the transformation that occurs when we provide a safe space for people to be authentically and unapologetically themselves. This industry inspires people to embrace self-love and grants an unspoken permission to prioritize oneself.

How do you incorporate self-care in your daily life and what does it mean to you?

I coach and play ice hockey, walk in nature, spend time with family and friends, watch The Bachelor, and indulge in a bath with a good book — sometimes a glass of wine! Self-care is about consciously choosing to invest in bettering my holistic health — inside and out. This empowers me to make a positive impact, not only on my own life, but also those around me, creating a ripple effect of healthy and meaningful relationships. As the saying goes, ‘Put your oxygen mask on first.”

Welcome to Rennaï, Shannon!

Thank you!

Shannon Traylen
Shannon Traylen

Meet the Managers

Marie-Leigh Toure

Content and Community Manager

Marie-Leigh Toure is dedicated to crafting captivating content and fostering community engagement at Rennaï. She's passionate about empowering others through wellness and self-care, ensuring every individual feels seen, heard, and valued in their journey towards self-discovery and personal growth.

Hi Marie-Leigh! We are so excited to have you on board!

It’s been an amazing experience!

What does being a Content and Community Manager at Rennaï mean?

I'm all about creating engaging marketing content that not only captivates, but also educates and inspires our wonderful Rennaï community as we continue to grow together on multiple platforms.

What has your professional journey been like and what are some of the highlights you’ve experienced?

Before joining Rennaï, I had worked as a Merchandising Strategist and Creative Producer. In these roles, I specialized in creating compelling content and marketing strategies for brands, while also contributing to the physical aspects by designing products and merch for exclusive drops. It was fulfilling to collaborate and lead projects with the social teams and designers to create content that tied into these campaigns and products. From sampling all the way through to launch, experiencing live reactions and excitement was truly exhilarating. I love being part of something from inception to execution, collaborating with different departments, and witnessing every step of the journey unfold.

What attracted you most to the beauty and self-care industry?

I was initially drawn to the beauty and self-care industry due to my passion for wellness and helping others in feeling their best. At first, I wasn’t sure it was for me, but I quickly learned that it starts with showing up for yourself. It’s about feeling good about making yourself feel good. With every action, there's a reaction, and I noticed that with self-care and beauty — it always left me with such a positive response!

What inspired you to join Rennaï?

Choosing Rennaï felt like the perfect fit for me, especially working with the team and my VP. Witnessing our continuous commitment to our community, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and cared for by being open-minded, communicative, and thoughtful about inclusion and diversity, has been incredibly rewarding. Diversity isn't just a checkbox for us — it's woven into the fabric of our foundation, making our journey all the more enriching and meaningful!

Since joining the beauty and self-care industry, what has been the most rewarding part thus far?

The most rewarding aspect of working in the beauty and self-care industry is witnessing the positive impact we can have on people's lives. Whether it's boosting someone's confidence or helping them see all these wonderful options to add some self-care to their lifestyle, knowing that I'm contributing to their well-being is incredibly fulfilling.

How do you incorporate self-care into your daily routine?

In my daily life, I prioritize self-care by practising activities that bring me joy. While the initial moments might not always be the most enjoyable, I find that after a great workout or walk, I'm always glad I showed up! I really enjoy practising pilates, going on morning walks, attending hot yoga sessions, and indulging in cooking, which I find both therapeutic and fulfilling!

Do you have a personal motto that you live by?

I ask myself, “How can I show up for myself today?” And remind myself, “You don’t have to RSVP to every argument you’re invited to.” I’ll leave it at that!

Love that! Thank you so much Marie-Leigh!
Marie-Leigh Toure
Marie-Leigh Toure

Jennifer Patterson

Event and Brand Activation Manager

Jennifer Patterson is the Event and Brand Activation Manager at Rennaï, curating memorable events and brand experiences that leave a lasting impact. With a decade of experience in fashion, PR, and strategic partnerships, she brings her expertise to the beauty and self-care world, driven by Rennaï's innovation, creativity, and community-centric approach.

Hi Jennifer, great to meet you! So, tell us, what are you in charge of at Rennaï?

I'm the lucky one that curates all of Rennaï's memorable events and brand experiences!

Love that! So, what was your journey like before you landed at Rennaï?

Before diving into the Rennaï world, I spent time in fashion, mastering the art of digital content and communications management. Next, I moved into PR and strategic partnerships, channeling my experience into developing impactful campaigns tailored specifically for direct-to-consumer lifestyle brands.

What made you jump into the beauty and self-care game with Rennaï?

I was drawn to Rennaï by the compelling blend of innovation, creativity, and community. With a deep-rooted love for beauty products and a keen eye for trends, I was eager to be part of a team that shares my enthusiasm. Ultimately, it was Rennaï’s genuine passion and forward-thinking approach to retail and self-care that solidified my decision to join.

And how do you incorporate self-care in your daily life?

Sleep is like a treasure in my busy life—it's rare and invaluable. That's why I make sure to schedule naps and aim for an early bedtime without fail. The ritual of preparing for sleep is one of my favourite parts of the day. I indulge in setting up my sleep sanctuary: fresh sheets, comfy pajamas, plump pillows, and a snug blanket. To top it off, I incorporate soothing elements like my trusty sound machine, calming lavender aromatherapy, and a good book. It's my version of a mini vacation, a delightful escape to a dreamy realm where worries melt away and comfort reigns supreme.

Totally get that! What would you say is the most satisfying thing about working in the beauty/self-care world?

The most rewarding part about working in the beauty and self-care industry is celebrating and embracing everyone's unique vibe. It's about empowering individuals to express themselves authentically and feel confident in their own skin.

Got a personal motto for tackling beauty, wellness, and self-care?

There’s nothing that a little mascara can’t fix!

Thank you for being a part of the Rennaï crew!

Thank you!

Jennifer Patterson
Jennifer Patterson

Fabien Garnier

Associate Buyer

Fabien Garnier, Rennaï's Associate Buyer, brings a blend of creativity and expertise from his background in the retail industry and passion for innovation in the beauty industry. Thrilled to contribute to Rennaï's visionary approach, Fabien is dedicated to introducing exceptional concepts that elevate self-care practices.

Welcome to the team, Fabien! Can you explain to our community what it means to be an associate buyer at Rennaï?

In our pursuit of beauty and excellence, we find inspiration from the finest brands, crafting unparalleled journeys for our customers that ignite inspiration and captivate wellness and self-care.

What was your career journey like before joining Rennaï?

After studying graphic design, my professional journey began in store management in France. I then relocated to Canada about a decade ago and since then, I've transitioned into a merchant role within the beauty industry.

What do you love most about the beauty industry? What was it that drew you to Rennaï?

From my first day in the beauty industry, I discovered a passion for innovation and its power to elevate self-care practices. When I learned about Rennaï's visionary approach, I knew I wanted to be part of their team and contribute to launching this exceptional concept. Joining forces with such a dedicated team and being involved in introducing a unique concept in the beauty industry is an opportunity I'm truly excited about.

What do you find to be the most rewarding part of working in beauty and self-care?

For me, the most fulfilling aspect of working in the beauty and self-care industry is the chance to forge meaningful relationships and partnerships while playing a role in introducing incredible products that positively impact our customers' self-care journeys.

What does daily self-care look like to you?

Crafting a morning and night routine that includes gratitude practice, hydration, mindfulness, planning, and setting intentions can contribute to feelings of well-being and mental comfort.

Do you have a mantra that you live by?

“Seul l'éphémère dure.” (Eugène Ionesco)

Thank you so much for sharing, Fabien! We’re thrilled to be working with you!
Fabien Garnier
Fabien Garnier

Angela McGregor

Buyer

Angela McGregor is a seasoned Buyer with a passion for curating products that enhance customers' self-care and wellness journey. With extensive experience in e-commerce and retail, she brings her expertise to Rennaï to help build something new and help define the essence of self-care.

Hi Angela! So happy to have you on the Rennaï team! Can you share with our community what being a buyer at Rennaï means in one sentence?

Of course! To sum it up, I select products that will enhance our customers’ self-care and wellness journey!

What has your career been like before joining Rennaï?

I’ve worked in retail for almost 20 years from sales to customer service to interning at retail head offices and have worked my way up to becoming a buyer. Most recently I was a buyer for Personal Care at a wellness company.

Why did you decide to transition to the beauty and self-care industry? What drew you most to Rennaï?

I have always been passionate about self-care and the wellness industry. I chose Rennaï because I was excited to be a part of something brand new, help build something from scratch, and have the chance to define what self-care means.

What do you find to be the most fulfilling thing about working in the beauty and self-care industry?

I love that I get to introduce the best products to other people, share tips on how to incorporate them into their own self-care rituals, and be surrounded by like-minded people.

And what does self-care mean to you? How do you incorporate it into your daily routine?

I prioritize my sleep and engage in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment, like spending time with my dog Dexter, reading and working on my other hobbies. I'm also striving to show more compassion towards myself and to be gentler with myself!

What’s your go-to motto that helps guide you when it comes to self-care?

My motto for most things is to try and go one day at a time! Start small with actions that aren’t too overwhelming that fit into your daily routine!

Thank you so much Angela! We’re thrilled to have you as part of our team!
Angela McGregor
Angela McGregor

Taylor Hollander

Buyer

Taylor Hollander is a dynamic contributor to the beauty and fashion industry, committed to curating empowering products for self-care journeys

Hey there, Taylor! Welcome to the team! So, in a nutshell, what’s your role at Rennaï?

I help curate beauty products from around the world to help empower individuals!

Tell us a little bit about your professional background before joining Rennaï,

I have spent my whole professional career in the beauty and fashion industry. From the early days interning at renowned magazines to the excitement of managing high-end retail stores to the art of buying in both apparel and beauty, every step has been fueled by passion and purpose.

What drew you into the world of beauty and self-care, and what made Rennaï stand out as the place to be?

I was drawn to the creativity and ongoing innovation that the beauty industry offers, and the ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives. This is precisely why I was excited about the opportunity at Rennaï — to contribute and create something new that celebrates beauty, self-care, and inclusivity.

How do you incorporate self-care in your daily life?

I practise self-care daily by incorporating activities that bring me happiness, whether it’s spending time with family, walking my dog, or indulging in my favourite TV show.

What do you find most rewarding about working in this industry?

The ability to influence and shape the customer experience while making a positive impact on their daily lives.

And lastly, what’s your go-to motto when it comes to beauty, wellness, and self-care?

Less is more — Embrace simplicity.

Taylor Hollander
Taylor Hollander