Chief Innovation Officer Dianna Ruth leads the development of forward-thinking product concepts that help DMI Solutions' existing and prospective clients stay ahead of market trends. She partners closely with brands to identify whitespace opportunities, refine product pipelines, and bring innovative, consumer-driven ideas to life, from concept through commercialization. With a sharp focus on emerging technologies and evolving consumer needs, she helps customers shape their next-generation product strategies.
Known as a beauty industry powerhouse, Dianna was named one of WWD's 50 Beauty Execs Under 40 Driving Innovation. She also helped lead Milk Makeup to become a 2024 WWD Power Brand, growing the business from startup to a multi-million dollar global brand.
In the Q&A below, Dianna shares her thoughts on innovation and the role it plays in brand growth.
Q. When you think about innovation, what's the first thing that comes to mind?
To me, innovation means doing what has not been done before. I like to create new categories, textures, and hybrid products that are first to market and shake up the industry.
Q. What is your favorite part about helping brands grow?
Helping brands grow is incredibly compelling because each one is unique. I love to get to know the founders, hear their origin stories, and custom-make products for their distinct vision.
Q. Would you prefer to help customers create "better" or "different" products? Why?
Both. I think there is room for better products and different products. Making things different just to be new isn't a win. It needs to work and deliver a benefit, always, to the customer.
Q. You were named one of WWD's 50 Beauty Execs Under 40 Driving Innovation. A proud moment, for sure. Why do you feel you were selected?
I feel like I was selected because I was bringing a very fresh take on beauty at the time. The concepts were new, packaging was innovative, and the formats had never been seen before in the color space.
Q. Based on your experience as co-founder of Milk, what do you hope to bring to DMI Solutions' customers?
I have been in their shoes, literally. I ran a brand for over 12 years, from private to investment to a publicly-traded company. I've had all the hard moments of inventory and international launches, out of stocks, and hard retailer conversations. I know their challenges because I lived it.
Q. What inspires and motivates you about the beauty and personal care industry?
I love this industry and everything that is possible. I love the expansion into tech, AI, and wellness.
Q. The beauty and personal care industry is currently facing economic and geopolitical challenges never seen before. What advice do you have for brands navigating through these industry challenges?
Navigating external world issues is always a constant. How you navigate makes the difference. My advice: Choose partners that are true partners, those who can bend with you when you need them.
Q. What should we know about you, personally and professionally?
I am a Jersey girl. I joke that nail polish and hair spray is in my veins. I have a husband, two kids, and a bulldog. I've worked at a contract manufacturer before and thrive being on the factory floor, in the lab, and with customers.