Ariona Smith
R&D Technical Project Manager II
Bath and Body Works
Ariona Smith, R&D Technical Project Manager II, Bath and Body Works has carved out a remarkable career in the chemical industry. With a degree in biological sciences from Rutgers University, her journey began as a chemist in Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG). Her determination and adaptability have guided her through a path filled with challenges and opportunities, leading her to her current role in the R&D innovation space.
Influence of Upbringing and Family: Ariona's upbringing in New Jersey, raised by a single mother alongside three siblings, profoundly shaped her work ethic and resilience. Her mother, who pursued both undergraduate and MBA degrees while raising her children, instilled the importance of education and perseverance. This environment taught Ariona the value of hard work and the significance of maintaining one's integrity and sanity while striving for success.
Navigating Career Aspirations and Personal Growth: Initially aspiring to be the first doctor in her family, Ariona realized that the medical profession was not her true calling. Overcoming the fear of letting down herself and her family, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Her passion for creativity and science led her to a fulfilling career in R&D within the CPG industry. This pivot allowed her to combine her technical expertise with a creative flair, ultimately finding her professional spark in innovation and consumer needs.
Embracing Change and Adaptability: Ariona’s career has been marked by her ability to adapt and thrive in various sectors of the CPG industry. Her roles have provided her with a holistic understanding of the business, from initial concept to marketing, sales, and consumer insights. Working on cross-functional teams, she has built strong relationships with suppliers and gained a comprehensive view of product development and strategic decision-making.
Pursuing Continuous Learning: Recognizing the need to expand her business acumen, Ariona decided to pursue an MBA in Digital Marketing. Inspired by her colleagues at Revlon, she sought to move beyond formulation development and gain a broader understanding of business strategy. This pursuit of continuous learning underscores her commitment to personal and professional growth.
Networking and Mentorship: Ariona emphasizes the importance of networking and seeking feedback. She advises others to challenge themselves by engaging in one-on-one interactions, reaching out on LinkedIn, and seeking constructive criticism. Her approach has allowed her to build valuable connections with leadership and embrace mentorship from both sides, further propelling her career.
Balancing Professional and Personal Life: Balancing professional aspirations with familial responsibilities has been a continuous journey for Ariona. Setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking therapy have been crucial in maintaining this balance. Her dedication to self-discovery and open communication with her family has helped her navigate the complexities of personal and professional life.
Ariona’s Advice: She encourages the Women in Chemical community to embrace continuous learning, network actively, and invest in self-care. She emphasizes that career paths are not linear, and adaptability is key to success. Her mantra, "Together we succeed," reflects the collective strength of empowered individuals striving for excellence.
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