After three decades in the aesthetics industry, Heather Harrison will retire from her role as managing director of Advanced Skin Technology (AST), marking the end of a formative chapter for the Australian cosmeceutical sector.
Harrison joined AST in 1996 and is widely credited with helping to shift the local skincare market from traditional cosmetic formulations towards clinical-grade cosmeceuticals at a time when the category was still emerging. Her leadership has underpinned the company’s growth from a Melbourne-based business into a major ANZ player, now representing more than 16 globally recognised brands and devices.
‘The success of AST has always been about more than just products; it’s about building genuine partnerships and surrounding yourself with people driven to achieve something meaningful,’ says Harrison. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built and feel confident stepping away knowing the business is in very capable hands.
Leadership of the business will transition to Gabrielle Bartolo and Aimee O’Shea, operating under the general management of Rachel Fergus, who has led the Asia surgical expansion for Device Technologies Group over the past six years.
Bartolo described the transition as both a privilege and a responsibility. ‘Heather has not only built a remarkable business but has helped shape the standards of our industry. Our focus is to honour that legacy while continuing to evolve, bringing advanced technologies, devices and cosmeceutical innovations to our partners across ANZ,’ she said.
O’Shea added that the company would remain focused on strengthening brand partnerships and delivering long-term value to clinics and practitioners.
With a well-established foundation, broad portfolio and backing from Device Technologies Group, AST enters its next phase positioned for continued growth across Australia and New Zealand.
