CND™ co-founder steps down from role after 46 years
By Helena Biggs | 04 March 2025 | Movers & Shakers, News
Jan Arnold, co-founder of nail brand, CND™, has stepped down from the role after 46 years.
It was 1978 when her father, Dr. Stuart Nordstrom, a practicing dentist, got the idea for a nail enhancement product, and subsequently launched SolarNail™ Liquid. This monomer formulation set a benchmark for liquid & powder systems and changed the future of the Nordstrom family, proving to be an invitation to expand into a new area of imagination. The Creative Nail Design (CND™) brand continued to evolve, merging science with style and focusing on empowering professionals through education.
The Nordstrom Family
Jan has championed the company’s commitment to education and advocacy, and led CND™ to the runway, helping to define nails as the ultimate fashion accessory.
Of her decision to step down from her role, she comments: “This change fills me with nothing but inspiration and excitement for the future. I feel immensely blessed to have had an extraordinary career, filled with entrepreneurial adventures, growing a business from the garage up, realising my father’s vision, building the nail enhancement category from the ground up, protecting the health of the natural nail and expanding the product portfolio through revolutionary science and best-in-class education.
Samantha Sweet, Pam Hogg & Jan Arnold
“From day one, I’ve been dedicated to the growth and success of nail professionals, supporting their rise to the top as influencers and taste makers. My cherished community of nail pros and friends have been my every inspiration.”
Jan has served on influential boards to support the trajectory of the nail profession, including The Nail Manufacturing Council (NMC), Professional Beauty Association (PBA), American Beauty Association (ABA), and as a founding board member of Beauty Changes Lives (BCL).
She has also judged at numerous Nailympia Competitions, and worked with Scratch to deliver two online nail contests. “Building global online nail competitions in partnership with Scratch: the World’s Star Nail Artist (WSNA) and North America’s Star Nail Artist (NASNA) has been incredibly rewarding.”
Judging at Nailympia London 2017
Jan adds: “We continue to cast a spotlight on the best-of-the-best nail professionals, who go on to find fame and fortune. What a glorious programme to be a part of, as we demonstrate to the world why choosing to become a nail professional is a first-choice career.”
“Through all these highlights, the most meaningful part of my time with CND™ and Revlon has been the people. I have had the privilege of working with wonderful, talented and visionary individuals. Over the years, these relationships have been at the core of my inspiration.
“I am beyond excited to continue my missions in beauty and the arts, including a passionate commitment to philanthropy for both. I thank you for a most extraordinary career, and I vow to stay connected and continue my commitments to the future of the beautiful nail profession.”
A post on CND™’s Instagram reads: “Jan, your groundbreaking innovation and unwavering commitment have not only shaped our brand, but have set new standards in the industry. Your visionary leadership and passion have driven us to achieve some of the greatest milestones in nail art and care, inspiring us to push boundaries.
“We are profoundly grateful for your brilliant ideas, relentless pursuit of excellence and the legacy you leave behind.”
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