Name: Linda Song
Title: Senior Perfumer, Givaudan
Location: New York, New York, United States
What led you to the fragrance industry?
Linda Song [LS]: While reading an article in the NY Times about a chemist patenting a molecule in the beauty industry, I became fascinated by the idea of applying my university degree to this field. Through my research, I discovered ISIPCA and pursued a master's degree there. This led me to join Givaudan as a perfumer's assistant and later attend Givaudan's prestigious perfumery school. None of this was part of a deliberate plan; instead, it was the result of a continuous search for opportunities, favorable timing, and the support of excellent mentors and advocates. I'm incredibly fortunate to be able to do what I love every day.
What applications do you primarily formulate for? Has this changed since you first began your career?
LS: In the United States, we have the opportunity to work in fine fragrance but also a lot of cross-category work, including lotions, shower gels and candles. I particularly enjoy the breadth of working from alcohol to various bases because the ideation, the process, and the materials are different. This variety feeds my creativity, allowing me to think about and utilize materials in innovative and unconventional ways.
When I first began as a perfumer, I eagerly took on any project that came my way because I was so enthusiastic about creating in any capacity. This often meant working on smaller projects in different formats, including those with stricter regulations. Even seasoned perfumers find that these constraints are valuable learning opportunities. As regulations evolve, the focus shifts from substituting past ingredients to adapting to the new guidelines.
What are some of the current trends that are exciting you at the moment?
LS: The global rise of niche fragrances. It doesn't originate from just one country, like the US or Europe, but increasingly from regions such as the Middle East and Asia. These areas are now setting new trends and shaping traditional markets.
Any advice for people coming into perfumery?
LS: Don't give up. In the world of perfumery, a wide range of personalities exist and are accepted, but passion and persistence are the common threads that unite us all.
Are the types of projects you're working on changing over time? How are the creative demands of the job evolving?
LS: The nature of projects is evolving due to the emergence of new industry players. A fresh wave of brands distinguishes itself from established ones, bringing excitement and challenge to consumers and competitors. As a perfumer, this shift enables me to explore my creativity more freely as the constraints have changed, the dialogue is more dynamic, and the approach has become increasingly authentic in the messaging and materials used, in addition to the transparency to the consumer.
