While announcing the retirement of OPI’s founder and CEO George Schaeffer, Coty stated that in order to move the brand forward and lead its international expansion, Mary van Praag has been appointed General Manager of OPI.

Van Praag will begin her new role on Jan. 1, 2014, replacing John Heffner, who has left the organization to pursue other career interests.

Van Praag had successfully led Coty’s mass channel sales organization in the U.S. for three years, after which she was promoted to her current role managing Coty’s business in Canada. She has been instrumental in turning Coty Canada’s mass channel business around as well as building and developing a stronger organization.

“Mary’s strong business acumen, category knowledge and diverse work experience will be key assets in expanding the OPI brand business internationally,” said Semerari. “She has been a star performer within the organization for many years and I’m confident that there is no candidate more qualified than Mary for this important role.”

“I’m deeply honored that Coty’s leadership has chosen me to oversee the OPI brand, especially during this crucial time in the brand’s history,” said van Praag. “I’m eager to start my new role and working with George and Suzi to propel the OPI brand towards new levels of growth.”

Van Praag is a graduate of Miami University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business with a major in Marketing. She also completed an Executive Management Program in General Management at Harvard Business School.