Melissa R. Hibbert

President of BrainTrust Founders Studio

Follow Melissa on Instagram: @melissahibbert

Melissa Hibbért is the newly appointed President of BrainTrust Founders Studio, a distinguished brand strategist and consumer marketing consultant. Previously she was the CEO & Founder of the renowned SHYFT Beauty Consulting Agency, a premier multicultural brand strategy and marketing firm for emerging beauty brands. With a robust corporate background spanning 14 years in multicultural advertising, consumer-centric brand management, and CPG, managing 7-figure brand marketing budgets, Melissa's journey seamlessly merges her passion for beauty with her unwavering commitment to the growth and scale of founder-led brands.

Boasting a track record of elevating global beauty brands through C-suite consulting, Melissa propelled SHYFT Beauty onto the scene in 2019, after a successful 10 years as a Beauty Expert and Founder of The GLAM Agency, today she guides early-stage beauty brands with precision and expertise. Her comprehensive approach tackles the intricacies of today's beauty landscape, devising strategic growth plans, retail distribution and strategic partnerships, fostering inclusive product development, and brokering impactful influencer partnerships and executing immersive product experiences.

Notably, Melissa spearheaded the success of Cécred, Beyoncé's groundbreaking hair collection, as the lead Beauty Product Testing and Marketing Insights Consultant. A stalwart advocate for emerging brands, Melissa stands as a beacon for private investors seeking transformative leadership and innovative ideas that redefine industry standards and drive profitability.

Moreover, Melissa's expertise extends to assisting clients in scaling to retailers such as TJ Maxx, Target, ThirteenLune, Sephora, and countless other beauty specialty retailers, further solidifying her reputation as a results-driven industry leader.

A distinguished alumna of Fisk University, Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Public Administration, complemented by a Master's in Business Administration. Beyond her professional pursuits, Melissa's role as an advisor, mentor, board member and investor underscores her dedication to shaping the future of both the tech and beauty sectors. Above all, Melissa cherishes her role as a devoted mother to her brilliant daughter, Milan, grounding her drive for excellence in a foundation of familial love and commitment.