Following an external search, the company selected Christopher DelOrefice, who will begin his tenure on Dec. 5; Chris Lialios will continue to serve as interim CFO until then. DelOrefice succeeds former CFO Paula Oyibo, who left the company in June.
DelOrefice will be instrumental in executing the Ulta Beauty “Unleashed” strategy, Steelman said. Announced in March 2025, the strategy outlines three key priorities: driving core business growth, scaling new ventures such as the UB Marketplace, and realigning for success. The plan aims to increase market share by expanding internationally, enhancing in-store experiences, broadening wellness and product assortments, and deepening digital engagement.
“Ulta Beauty is a formidable market leader in the beauty category,” DelOrefice said in a statement, expressing confidence in the company’s growth opportunities ahead.
Morningstar believes Ulta Beauty can further reduce costs and expand by leveraging customer data and growing its premium product offering. The firm forecasts Ulta Beauty will expand its domestic store base by about 20% over the next decade, with long-term, same-store sales growth of 4%.
Steelman, president and CEO since January, joined Ulta Beauty in 2014 and has held several leadership roles. She views DelOrefice as a strategic partner who will help fuel the company’s next chapter.
