Independent Cosmetics Manufacturers and Distributors (ICMAD) has announced that senior vice president and global general manager of Clarisonic, Dr. Robb Akridge, will be the keynote speaker at the 11th Annual Cosmetic Innovators of the Year (CITY) Awards. The event will be held on June 11, 2014, to celebrate entrepreneurial beauty and personal care companies. As an industry veteran and influencer, Dr. Akridge offers a wealth of experience, knowledge, and inspiration for the up-and-coming beauty brands being honored.

As the co-founder of Pacific Bioscience Laboratories, the makers of the Clarisonic Sonic Skin Cleansing System and Opal Sonic Infusion System, Dr. Akridge has been at the forefront of beauty innovation and development for over a decade. Armed with a mission to create technologically advanced and clinically proven products that truly make a difference in skincare, health, and beauty, he currently focuses on the global expansion of the Clarisonic brand as well as new product development and international marketing. Previously, he served as the vice president of clinical research at Clarisonic and has more than 25 years of experience in medical and global health research. He is a current research member of the American Academy of Dermatology and a board member of ICMAD.

The annual ICMAD CITY Awards is attended by industry insiders and influencers from all over the world, making it an important event for the world of beauty and personal care. Judged by five beauty insiders ranging from editors to entrepreneurs and executives, the CITY Awards will be given to the biggest breakthroughs in product, packaging, and advertising and marketing in the past year.