The Fragrance Foundation in a non-profit, invitation-only industry professional organization “whose membership includes more than 82 of the world’s most important corporations in the world of fragrance,” according to the group’s site. The Foundation got its start in 1949 and is currently led by president Linda G. Levy and chairman Jerry Vittoria.
Describing the recent awards event Levy, tells the press, “It was a fantastic celebration inducting Nicolas into The Fragrance Foundation's Circle of Champions.”
“Nicolas,” she believes, “is a true champion of the industry with a zest for life and creative passion for fragrance. His life of accomplishments deserves all the beautiful tributes shared by our friends and colleagues.”
Admired
The Fragrance Foundation’s Circle of Champions Award is given to fragrance industry professionals who have made significant contributions in their field.
Mirzayantz’s peers and colleagues deem he has done just that. “For nearly thirty years, Nicolas has shared his passion for the industry, innovation, and sustainability, creating meaningful and lasting value for both IFF and our customers,” said Andreas Fibig, IFF Chairman and CEO, in his remarks at the event, adding that “He exemplifies IFF at its best and it is fitting that he is honored by the very people whom he has long admired and from whom he has taken so much inspiration.”
Several other fragrance industry luminaries spoke at the event, paying tribute to Mirzayantz’s character, accomplishments, and contribution to the field, including Levy, Vittoria, Ann Gottlieb of Gottlieb Associates, IFF master perfumer Carlos Benaim, and Leonard A. Lauder, Chairman Emeritus of The Estée Lauder Companies. And, John Demsey, Executive Group President, The Estée Lauder Companies, was master of ceremonies for the event.
Grateful
Accepting his award, Mirzayantz reminded those gathered that, “In many businesses, we work in the shadows of our heroes. But in the beauty and fragrance industry, we walk among them every day.”
“One of my life’s greatest joys,” he said, “is to have worked with so many icons and rising talents in this field for the last 30 years, a number of whom are here tonight. You are my mentors, colleagues, customers, competitors but most importantly, my friends.”