Bio

Dave Lackie is one of Canada’s foremost beauty authorities with an extensive journalist career in magazines, online and newspapers. He’s had exclusive entry to some of the world’s top cosmetics research and development labs, interviewed world class perfumers, spent time with top tier makeup artists backstage during Fashion Weeks and delved into the art of beauty packaging with designers and creators. From inside the hidden Museo di Palazzo Mocenigo Perfume Museum in Venice to a 16th century castle in France where thermal spa water is used in skincare products, Dave brings a unique approach to beauty counter products. He brings an “insider” approach to all of his writing and social media posts and videos through storytelling. He explains why products are interesting and worth the investment.

Dave Lackie on the Cityline set
Dave Lackie on the Cityline set

This expert approach the industry has garnered him a loyal following across Canada and around the world who tune in to his regular segments on Citytv’s Cityline TV show where he discusses the latest beauty launches, trends and innovations with host Tracy Moore. He carefully handpicks the most exciting and fascinating products that offer great quality and creativity. Whenever he has the chance, he loves to travel across the country hosting trend events and meeting Cityline viewers in person.

“Dave Lackie is beauty expert meets respected journalist meets digital savant. His knowledge of the beauty industry is unparalleled, it’s his personal connections with his readers and fans alike that really sets him apart. He engages his followers by connecting with them directly while keeping them up on the pulse of what’s new in the world of beauty,” says Bobbi Brown, Founder, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics.

Dave and Jean Paul Gaultier
Dave and Jean Paul Gaultier

Throughout his journalistic career, Dave has specialized in designer and celebrity interviews. He’s interviewed dozens of personalities including: Justin Timberlake, Halle Berry, Simon Baker, Gwen Stefani, Donatella Versace, Tim McGraw, Sarah Jessica Parker, Alicia Keys, Anna Sui, Michael Kors and Enrique Iglesias. He’s had tea with Celine Dion, talked social media with Kim Kardashian and discussed career advice with Makeup by Mario’s Mario Dedivanovic. His favourite interview was with Joan Rivers in the back of her limousine.

“Dave Lackie is one of the most authentically engaging influencers on social media today. The consistent quality of engagement and scope of Dave Lackie’s audience represents a true value proposition for the brands he partners with,” says Barbara Jeanne Harrison, CEO, Gruv Media, a global digital media agency working with Universal Music, Live Nation, Disney XD and Warner Music Group. Dave consistently ranks top 5 in Tribe Dynamics’ Canadian beauty influencer ratings.

Before founding Beauty Departure magazine, a luxury digital magazine that featured a team of editors and contributors around the world who reported on the latest global trends, innovations and designs, Dave spent four years as a style columnist for the National Post newspaper where he wrote weekly features for the Financial Post. He wrote the “Sniff Test” column with National Post Style Editor Nathalie Atkinson. Both reviewed and scored the latest perfumes on the market.

For seven years, Dave acted as editor of Cosmetics magazine, Canada’s beauty trade magazine. He researched and wrote about skincare innovation, makeup trends and marketing campaigns. He was awarded a P&G Beauty Award for his work. He also wrote for ELLE Canada, Canadian Business, the Globe and Mail and Profit magazines.

Before becoming a journalist, Dave spent seven years as events and public relations manager for Harry Rosen, an upscale men’s wear retailer. There, he created PR campaigns for Hugo Boss, Ermenegildo Zegna, Brioni, Canali and Versace. He has a bachelor of arts from Wilfrid Laurier University and a public relations certificate from Humber College.

Dave is currently writing his first book, “The Beauty Guru.”