Chiaki Nomura

Chiaki Nomura’s approach to perfumery is rooted in minimalism, sensitivity, and deep connection. Born in Japan, she first studied pharmacy in Tokyo before pursuing her passion for fragrance at ISIPCA in France and the University of Plymouth in England. Her journey as a perfumer began at IFF New York in 2008, where she continues to create fragrances across multiple categories, from fine perfumery to candles and body care.
With a passion for travel, Chiaki has lived in six countries across four continents and visited more than 40 destinations. She finds inspiration in new cultures, often immersing herself in local markets to understand the essence of a place. Her love for woods, especially vetiver and cedarwood, stems from both her Japanese heritage and her travels—particularly a formative experience in Haiti, where she met the farmers behind IFF’s vetiver, deepening her respect for raw materials and their origins.
Chiaki’s signature style reflects Japanese simplicity and precision. Her formulas are among the shortest in perfumery, ensuring that every ingredient has a purpose. She describes her creative approach as understated yet bold, valuing risk-taking and emotional depth in her compositions. For her, perfumery is about more than just scent—it’s about crafting fragrances that resonate on a soulful level.