Nicolas Barou departs Sonepar to take on Director of Global HR Systems and Technology role at Sephora

Sephora has appointed Nicolas Barou as Director of Global HR Systems and Technology.

He joins from Sonepar where he spent over 15 years, most recently serving as Group HRIS Director.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: “After an incredible journey at Sonepar, it’s time for a new adventure. I’m deeply grateful for the amazing colleagues, mentors, and friends I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years. Thank you for the support, the challenges, the laughs, and the growth. These experiences have shaped me both professionally and personally.”

He added: “I’m thrilled to share that I’ve joined Sephora as Director of Global HR Systems & Technology. I’m excited to be part of a brand that’s not only iconic but also deeply committed to innovation, diversity, and people. Looking forward to this new chapter, to learning and contributing in new ways, and to collaborating with inspiring teams around the world. To everyone who’s been part of my journey so far: thank you. And to those I’ll meet along the way: let’s connect!.”

The new Empowered Eyeshadow Palette from @hudabeauty has arrived 💫 Only at Sephora. https://t.co/0WkKQ6LCTT pic.twitter.com/WdGTfnKiTS

— Sephora (@Sephora) November 2, 2022

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

HR technology will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.