Karen Matthews

Karen Matthews is an innovative leader, inspirational businesswoman and engaging keynote speaker, recognised nationally for her achievements in retail, franchising and strategic brand management. Former CEO of skincare company Ella Baché, Karen has over 22 years’ experience driving operational excellence, brand growth and cultural transformation in national and international businesses.

Karen’s leadership has been widely acknowledged. She was named PWC National Franchise Woman of the Year (2007), Telstra NSW Business Woman of the Year (2004), and PWC NSW Franchise Woman of the Year (2005) in recognition of her professional achievements, leadership, and community contribution.

Her proudest professional accomplishments include launching Australia’s first skincare franchise model with Ella Baché in 2002 and guiding the 50-year-old family-owned business through a period of significant change and re-engineering, delivering brand recognition, financial stability, market penetration and a culture widely regarded as “best practice.”

Karen is known for her intuitive “inside out” leadership style — a high-energy approach that inspires teams to perform at their best while delivering results. Prior to Ella Baché, she gained extensive experience in retail, licensing and product development as General Manager at FJ Benjamin Fashions, and through buying and marketing roles at Myer Grace Bros, where her career in retail began.

A proud mother of two, Karen demonstrates that it is possible to balance high-level business leadership with family and personal fulfilment. She now shares her insights and experience as a keynote speaker, helping others to lead with confidence, courage and purpose.