Mentor match at Prologic Skincare works wonders

Prologic Skincare founder Rachel Robertson was about to embark on her export journey when she contacted Business Mentors New Zealand for help.

Today, the Wellington mother-of-three has built a solid relationship with her mentor, international marketing specialist Pieta Reid. She’s also branched into the Australian and UK markets and is looking to expand into the United States.

“I was ready to take my business to the next stage. I wanted to work with a mentor who had experience in this area,” Rachel explains.

“Pieta and I clicked straight away. I couldn’t believe I was lucky enough to be matched with someone who had both a huge amount of export experience and experience in my industry.”

Rachel launched Prologic in 2011, combining two decades of beauty therapy specialising in advanced skincare with her cosmetic chemistry studies.

With an emphasis on sustainability and ethical processes, Prologic has grown from one to 26 products. It is available in three countries.

Pieta has more than 25 years of experience in a range of businesses, from a natural skincare company to turnaround management, bankruptcies, and liquidations.

She’s developed strategies for international markets and executed them. Now she works for herself in strategy and governance for businesses.

In Rachel’s case, Pieta helped guide her on what points to consider. They looked at the pros and cons and any exclusive distribution arrangements for the New Zealand and Australian markets.

Rachel has relished the opportunity to work alongside Pieta.

“Pieta has helped me to be more strategic with decisions (rather than emotional). Especially when it comes to deadlines and targets, making sure I push to get what I need for the business. We have also talked about the next steps for looking for the next country to launch in and how to find that perfect distributor.”

Rachel can’t sing the praises of Business Mentors New Zealand enough.

Nationwide, Prologic is one of 320 businesses mentored through Business Mentors New Zealand. The greater Wellington region has 120 mentors.

The organisation is always looking for more mentors. Like Pieta, these people would be specialists in their field. They would be keen to share their knowledge and a few hours a month to help shorten someone else’s learning curve.

Pieta and Rachel first met for coffee every two weeks to draw out a plan of attack.

“It was so good to have another sounding board. Now as my business grows, we try to meet once a month via Zoom to nut out any issues and look at ways we can improve things,” says Rachel.

Pieta decided to become a business mentor during the COVID-19 lockdown period. She encourages others to sign up to help make a meaningful difference in the lives of business owners like Rachel.

“I had heard Business Mentors New Zealand was needing more mentors. I had the capacity and thought I could offer time and expertise to the partnered businesses. It’s a great way to connect with your community and give back and help businesses along the way.”

Find out how to get a business mentor