Brief encounter: deborah mitchell

How did you get into the beauty industry?

By complete accident. I had acne when I was younger and wanted to fix it and make my skin look nice. From there, I found I wanted to look after other people's skin too - I started with treatments, then created my own product range to complement them. What has been your greatest business achievement? Becoming a worldwide brand and seeing all the spas and salons who stock Heaven flourishing.

What is the most satisfying/rewarding moment of your career?

Making Heaven a worldwide brand. My products are sold in South Africa, Australia, Hong Kong, America and Dubai QWhat's the best business/career advice you have ever been given? I don't think anyone has ever advised me or coached me in business. Everything I've done I have started and seen through myself.

What is the secret of your success?

I think my passion for what I do is so important and it's what made me embark on this career in the first place. I love treating and helping people, creating products and all aspects of beauty therapy and business. I have always given 100% to everything I have ever done, whether it's giving someone a facial or thinking of formulas for new products. I have invested a lot of time into Heaven throughout the years.

What is your philosophy?

To love what you do and always keep it fresh. I never let my work or brand get stale and am always looking for new ideas and opportunities to keep Heaven evolving.

Three things you couldn't do your job without?

My office staff, my diary and my phone as it helps me keep up to date with what is going on in the business wherever I am and it means anyone can get hold of me anytime if they need to. It's important to me to keep in touch with friends and family as well as for business.

Best/worst bits of your job?

Apart from doing the accounts, all of my job is the best bit! I like treating and helping people and love developing and making products.

Future business ambitions?

To continue Heaven's success in more countries and develop worldwide training schools. QImagine you are at the start of your career, what would you change? Nothing. I'm pleased with where I am today and don't believe in regrets, so I'd do it all the same way.

Business plans for the next 12 months?

I always plan ahead for where I want to be career wise and personally. 2009 is an exciting year, starting with the expansion of a new Heaven hotel range for the Radisson group and other high-profile hotels, and some exclusive Heaven treatments for their spas.