Interview with Sophie DUFOUR – Lab Technician and Colorist!

Hello Sophie, could you tell us a little about yourself?

After working for over ten years at TOYO INK EUROPE SPECIALITY CHEMICALS as a quality control technician, I joined ADDICOLOR in 2021 following the company’s acquisition, in the same role. I left the region—and the company—in 2022 to pursue a family project. Upon my return in 2025, I had the opportunity to rejoin ADDICOLOR, this time as a laboratory technician and colorist, a role that allows me to fully leverage my experience and skills.

Can you tell us about your career path and what led you to this position as a Laboratory Technician and Colorist?

Throughout my years as a quality control technician, I worked closely with the colorists responsible for developing hair colors on a daily basis. This close collaboration taught me a great deal and fueled my desire to transition into this role, a natural and logical progression given my background.

The experience I gained in quality control is now a real asset, allowing me to take on this new role with solid skills and a deep understanding of the job’s requirements.

What does this new position entail?

My new role involves developing and researching new colors to meet the specific needs expressed by clients. Based on their specifications—which include the desired characteristics of the product, its end use, and any technical constraints—I create the requested shades and then conduct the necessary analyses to ensure that the product perfectly meets their expectations. You have to be quite responsive because deadlines are sometimes tight. Once the shade is approved, it goes into production and is then used and transformed into the final product by the customer.

I work in a laboratory alongside an experienced colorist, whose expertise is invaluable, as well as with the R&D manager. I also work closely with the quality control technicians, whom I support in particular by monitoring production runs for color control as needed. I also work with the QHSE technician to ensure compliance with standards regarding quality, hygiene, safety, and the environment.

What do you like about this new position?

What I like most about my job is being able to contribute to a wide variety of projects, each with its own unique characteristics. I particularly enjoy the satisfaction of achieving a color that perfectly meets the client’s expectations and will then be used in a wide range of applications. It’s always rewarding to see the final product—sometimes even in stores—and to know that I played a part in creating it.

Is there a recent project or achievement you’re particularly proud of?

It’s still a little too early to highlight a truly iconic project. But given the projects coming in, I’m sure I’ll soon have some great achievements to share at a future opportunity.

If you had to describe your role in three words, which ones would you choose?

If I had to describe my role in three words: Development – Analysis – Collaboration.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to advance in this field?

Having experience in quality control in the field of color is a real asset when moving into a colorist role. It provides a solid foundation for understanding the interactions between different raw materials, mastering the various tests to be performed, and becoming familiar with the use of laboratory equipment. This practical knowledge greatly facilitates the transition to color development.

Any final words for the teams you’ll be working with?

I chose to return to ADDICOLOR because my first experience there was very positive, marked by a strong team dynamic and a genuine spirit of cooperation.

I hope to find that same positive energy within the teams I’ll be working with in this new role.