Ever wondered what it takes to become the Head of Fabulosity? Sounds like a dream job, right? But here’s where it gets controversial—it’s not just about the glitz and glamour; it’s about making others feel extraordinary. Meet Tony Baumann, the man behind this dazzling title at Mecca, who’s here to spill the beans on his journey, his role, and the secrets to making every interaction fabulous. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not about him; it’s about everyone else.
Welcome to How I Got Here, where we dive into the stories of individuals crushing it in their fields. From the highs to the lows, the lessons learned, and the practical advice they’re willing to share, this series is your backstage pass to careers that inspire. We’ve chatted with marketing gurus, PR wizards, designers, and founders, but Tony’s role? It’s a first. When we heard about his title, we couldn’t resist. What does it entail? How did he land it? And more importantly, is it as fabulous as it sounds?
‘Making someone feel at ease and confident with you will be your greatest asset,’ Tony says. But what does that really mean? For him, it’s about ensuring every person he interacts with—whether a customer, brand founder, or team member—leaves feeling wonderful. It’s a philosophy that’s both simple and profound, and it’s at the heart of his role.
Tony’s days are anything but ordinary. One day, he’s knee-deep in product development, collaborating with the retail team or brainstorming with marketing. The next, he’s hosting beauty icons like Charlotte Tilbury, Gucci Westman, or the legendary Mr. Nars. ‘I was once in a taxi with an artist texting Madonna,’ he recalls. ‘I was internally freaking out but kept it cool.’ Talk about a day in the life!
With four decades of experience, Tony’s journey began as a hairdresser and makeup artist. From there, he climbed Mecca’s ladder, starting in-store before transitioning to the head office. ‘Beauty has always been my playground,’ he reflects. ‘Experimenting, creating, connecting—it’s where I come alive.’ Even after all these years, the thrill hasn’t faded.
So, how did he become the Head of Fabulosity? ‘I think the title was meant as a joke, but it stuck,’ he laughs. His role? To ensure customers, brands, and team members have the most fabulous experience possible. It’s a job that’s as much about the big picture as it is the tiny details.
Growing up, Tony knew he wanted to work in beauty. ‘I was five when I put blue eyeshadow on my mom,’ he shares. ‘I loved how it made her feel—even if the look was questionable.’ That creativity and playfulness? They’re still his driving forces today.
His leap into the beauty industry wasn’t accidental. With a background in hairdressing and makeup artistry, he brought his skills to Mecca, starting in-store. ‘Those years shaped every decision I make,’ he says. From there, he moved to HQ, taking on roles like Experience Manager and Colour Manager before becoming Head of Artistry and, finally, Head of Fabulosity. ‘I’ve got my fingers in all the pies,’ he jokes. ‘And it works.’
A typical day? There isn’t one. Tony’s role is fluid, adapting to Mecca’s needs. One moment, he’s developing products; the next, he’s hosting brand founders or working in-store. ‘I’m everywhere,’ he says. ‘And I love it.’
His office style? Tailored and timeless, with a custom lobster orange sequin suit for special occasions. ‘It’s had quite the outing,’ he grins. His beauty routine? Simple yet effective—Dr Dennis Gross SpectraLite, brow gel, and a signature scent. ‘People always say the room smells like Tony,’ he notes.
Career highlights? Plenty. From rubbing shoulders with beauty legends to Meccaland and flagship store openings, Tony’s journey is star-studded. ‘Walking the Sydney Pride Parade with the Mecca team was a moment,’ he shares. ‘And working at NYFW with the Nars team? Unforgettable.’
But it hasn’t been without challenges. As Mecca grew, Tony had to learn to let go. ‘Trusting others to own their magic is hard,’ he admits. ‘But it’s necessary. You can’t do everything.’ It’s a lesson in leadership and humility.
The best part of his role? ‘I still get to play,’ he says. ‘Beauty is my playground, and making people feel incredible? That’s the best part.’ It’s a sentiment that’s both heartfelt and inspiring.
What might surprise you? Tony’s autonomy. ‘Mecca trusts me to do what’s needed,’ he says. ‘That freedom is priceless.’ And while he’s met countless beauty icons, one moment stands out: ‘Being in a taxi with someone texting Madonna? That was a test of my cool.’
Rose Marie Swift, founder of RMS Beauty, left a lasting impression. ‘She taught me that beauty starts from within,’ Tony says. ‘It’s about what you eat, how you think, how you live.’ It’s a philosophy he’s embraced.
So, what’s his advice for aspiring Heads of Fabulosity? ‘Be kind, be flexible, and always add a little humor,’ he says. ‘Laughter is medicine.’ And his practical tip? ‘Know your craft inside out. Make every interaction about the other person.’
But here’s the real question: What’s your take on the role of ‘Head of Fabulosity’? Is it all about the title, or is there more to it? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
