Carmen Vanderheiden Brodie is a seasoned executive with over 40 years of experience pioneering, scaling, and leading clinical operations in the aesthetic and personal care industry. As the Co-Founder and Vice President of Clinical Operations at Removery, Carmen has been instrumental in shaping the global tattoo removal landscape, overseeing operations across 151 locations in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Her visionary leadership and expertise in laser technology have positioned her as a pioneer in the field, setting industry benchmarks for quality, safety, and client satisfaction.
Carmen’s career has been defined by a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence. At Removery, she developed and implemented standardized treatment protocols that emphasize safety and effectiveness, creating a robust framework for clinical operations. Under her leadership, the organization established a Clinical Advisory Board to ensure industry-leading standards and medical oversight. Her dedication to advancing laser technology has not only improved treatment outcomes but also set new precedents in the aesthetic industry.
Before co-founding Removery, Carmen served as the Founder and CEO of The Finery, a company that revolutionized the tattoo removal industry through the adoption of Pico-second laser technology. Recognized as one of the most experienced facilities in the world, The Finery established itself as a market leader under Carmen’s guidance. Her entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her strategic insight, allowed her to successfully expand the business into a multi-state operation while maintaining a focus on innovation and client care.
Carmen’s leadership extends beyond technical expertise. Her ability to scale businesses while fostering a culture of empowerment and collaboration has made her a standout figure in her field. She has designed and led comprehensive training programs for clinical technicians, ensuring high competency and adherence to safety protocols. By empowering her teams with science-based decision-making, Carmen has cultivated a workforce that shares her dedication to excellence and client outcomes.
A firm believer in community engagement and social responsibility, Carmen launched the INK Initiative during her time at The Finery, which addressed social issues through impactful business practices. This campaign highlighted her ability to align business success with community impact, demonstrating her multifaceted approach to leadership.
Carmen’s influence is not limited to business operations. Her thought leadership has been featured in major media outlets, including Kathy Ireland’s Show, The New York Post, and CBC Radio. She is a frequent speaker on topics related to laser technology and clinical operations, sharing her insights and inspiring others in the industry. Her contributions have elevated public awareness of tattoo removal as a transformative and empowering service.
Her academic foundation includes a Master’s Degree from Salve Regina University, where she honed skills in psychology, financial planning, and negotiation. These disciplines have equipped Carmen with a comprehensive understanding of both human behavior and business strategy, allowing her to navigate complex challenges with poise and precision.
International exposure has further enriched Carmen’s perspective. Having led operations in Canada and Australia, she understands the nuances of scaling businesses across diverse markets. Her ability to adapt strategies to different regions while maintaining a unified operational standard has been critical to her success.
Carmen’s journey is marked by a unique blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and a profound commitment to client care. Whether pioneering new technologies, leading clinical trials, or mentoring future leaders, she has consistently demonstrated an unwavering dedication to excellence.
Character:
Carmen embodies resilience, compassion, and integrity, which are evident in her leadership style and client-focused approach. She inspires trust and loyalty in her teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Knowledge:
With expertise spanning laser technology, clinical operations, and strategic planning, Carmen’s knowledge is both deep and versatile. Her ability to stay at the forefront of industry advancements has made her a sought-after leader and innovator.
Strategic:
Carmen excels in scaling businesses while maintaining quality and operational excellence. Her strategic mindset has enabled her to lead successful expansions, establish industry benchmarks, and achieve long-term growth.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Carmen is adept at conveying complex ideas with clarity and purpose. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences—from technicians to board members—has been key to her influence and success.
