Early Life and Career Beginnings

Gillian Franklin is a prominent figure in the Australian business landscape, recognized as the Managing Director of The Heat Group, a leading distributor of personal care brands such as Max Factor, COVERGIRL, Bourjois, and her own Ulta3. Her journey began in South Africa, where she commenced her career with Revlon. At the young age of 24, Gillian was appointed as the General Manager for one of Revlon’s divisions, a pivotal moment that propelled her into the corporate world. This role required her to present the Australian budget to the Revlon board in New York, where she gained invaluable insights into financial management within a highly competitive branded consumer environment.

A Vision for Balance and Empathy

Gillian’s career trajectory was shaped by her desire to balance professional ambition with family life. She expressed her understanding of the challenges women face in managing work and childcare, stating, “I want to have children but I don’t want to do childcare.” This realization drove her to pursue financial independence and flexibility in her career to afford the support she needed to raise her children. She aimed to have her first child before the age of 30, motivating her to secure a senior position that would allow her the work-life balance she desired.

Building The Heat Group

In 2004, Gillian founded The Heat Group, starting with just five employees operating from a coffee shop. Over the years, she has transformed the company into a robust organization with around 140 employees and its own warehouse and distribution facility. Under her leadership, The Heat Group has become a powerhouse in the personal care industry, achieving an impressive annual turnover of approximately $130 million in retail sales. Gillian’s strategic vision led to an 86% increase in sales for Max Factor and COVERGIRL in Australia, amidst a market growth rate of just 43% during the same period. Today, both brands rank among the top six in the Australian cosmetic market, while Ulta3 has become the number one nail brand in the country.

Commitment to Empowering Women

Beyond her business acumen, Gillian is passionate about supporting women in achieving financial independence and success. She created the Australis Self Made Girl workshops, aimed at motivating and inspiring young women. As a sought-after speaker on women’s issues, she frequently engages with Australian women, utilizing her company’s resources to gather insights on the challenges they face.

Gillian’s commitment to women extends to her involvement in various boards, including the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association of Australia (CTFA), ACCORD, the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC). Her expertise and dedication have earned her numerous accolades, including her induction into the Australian Business Women’s Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Telstra Business Women’s Award Victoria in 1996. She was also recognized as the Global Entrepreneur of the Year (Australia) at the Business Women’s Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C., in 2000, and was a nominee for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2011.

Navigating Personal Challenges

Gillian’s life journey has not been without significant personal challenges. After moving to Australia, she faced the loss of her father and the tragic murder of her brother. She also had to navigate the complexities of immigration for her mother, who arrived in Australia only to suffer a stroke the next day. These experiences have shaped her resilience and have instilled in her the belief that self-esteem and resilience are crucial gifts for children.

Gillian has shown remarkable fortitude in the face of adversity, including a personal battle with cancer. Reflecting on her experience, she noted, “I don’t want to change my life. I’m really happy.” Her positive outlook and tenacity serve as a testament to her character.

Philosophy and Strategies for Success

Gillian’s approach to business and life is grounded in practical strategies and a can-do attitude. She advocates for thinking big and not allowing external opinions to dictate one’s capabilities. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of hiring the best talent, recognizing that employees with balanced lives contribute more to the organization.

Living in Melbourne with her husband of over 33 years, Gillian continues to inspire her three daughters, instilling in them the values of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of their passions.

In summary, Gillian Franklin’s journey from a young professional in South Africa to a leading businesswoman in Australia exemplifies the power of determination, empathy, and strategic thinking. Her commitment to empowering women and her remarkable success in the personal care industry position her as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and a beacon of resilience in the face of life’s challenges.