Executive Team
KYLE SIMONSON | Chief Executive Officer, Founder
Kyle Simonson is a native Minnesotan. She is a locally and nationally recognized leader in the salon and spa trades, a clinical aesthetician, industry presenter and founder and CEO of Simonson's Salon & Spa's four-location enterprise located in the NW suburbs of Minneapolis. Simonson's was one of the first salons in the U.S. to recognize the movement toward combining salon and spa services in a single synergistic environment. Simonson's Salon & Spas has been recognized for ten unprecedented years in a row by "Salon Today" magazine as one of America's fastest growing salons.
Like most success stories, Kyle Simonson's accomplishments did not come easy. It took years of hard work, personal sacrifice and unyielding determination for her dreams to come to fruition. Her personal mantra: Thoughts create beliefs that manifest reality.
Kyle has this say about her secret to success... Take as many calculated risks as you can withstand. Once you catch the wave, maintain your balance and ride it out as long as your mind, body and spirit permit. Always remember those who supported your dream. Don't let your ego be your guide. And always remember that right thoughts and right efforts ultimately bring about right results. If there's a better way, strive to find it.
CARRIE JOHNSON | Chief Operating Officer
Carrie Johnson, Chief Operating Officer, has been employed with Simonson's Salon & Spa since April 2001. She is responsible for salon operations and mentoring the Salon Coordinators, as well as a significant number of internal duties (accounts payable/receivable, payroll processing and document revisions to name a few).
While a challenging endeavor, Carrie's educational background did not focus on business. Ever since she was a child she aspired to work with animals. Focusing on Biology, Chemistry and Psychology while attending the University of Minnesota-Duluth, Carrie's plan was to become a Veterinarian. She graduated from UMD in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. While working at a local animal hospital she realized her interests peaked more when dealing with the 'business' side of the operation. This led her to Simonson's where she was hired as an Executive Assistant in 2001.
Throughout her employment she has had a chance to learn the "ins and outs" of the salon business. "I have learned invaluable lessons while working for Simonson's; both life lessons and educational lessons. You don't receive this kind of training in a classroom. It's a wonderful and challenging experience". Carrie looks forward to seeing what amazing things transpire at Simonson's in the years to come.
MARILYN AASE | Education and Sales Director
Marilyn Aase has been a licensed cosmetologist in Minnesota for more than 17 years. Her expansive knowledge of the beauty industry is the chief reason she is so accomplished in her current position as the Education and Sales Director for Simonson's Salon & Spas four location enterprise in Minneapolis, MN. Aase is responsible for internal and external education development, retail product line analysis and implementation, and the planning and execution of company's promotional events.
In her role as the principal executive in charge of education, Aase mentors a collective group of salon and spa educators who provide 'high-touch' department specific skills that synergistically contribute to the success of the team. The result is an enthusiastic and cultured team of beauty technicians who bring new meaning to the word 'expert'.
Prior to her appointment at Simonson's, Aase's talents evolved for over a decade at esteemed companies such as Clairol Professional, Matrix and L'Oreal USA where she conducted stage presentations and education seminars on topics such as hair color, texture, haircutting, communication and sales to both large and small professional beauty industry groups. Aase's background is a unique compilation of practical experience as a cosmetologist, salon manager and industry presenter.
DEIDRE SIMONSON | QUALITY CONTROL DIRECTOR
In 2004, Deidre officially became a Simonson's Salon and Spa team member when she joined the company in the capacity of a Sanitation Steward ... forever ensuring the right to say that she knows the company from the ground up. Later she went on to assume the position of a Guest Service Representative, Team Lead and at present, Lead Salon Coordinator.
Deidre graduated from Maple Grove Senior High School with honors in 2007 and attends Anoka Ramsey Community College part time. Her principle focus is on Business Development and Interpersonal Communications. She is a natural leader and motivator. The enjoyment of bringing new approaches and concepts to the team is what fuels her zeal for collaboration and fulfillment.
Simply put, Deidre believes that GOOD ENOUGH is never GOOD ENOUGH when it comes to measuring guest service and customer satisfaction. "Beauty and pleasure are at the core of our success. My team's goal is to make your day!"