Good perfumery is not just an art, it’s also a science. And it’s a science that has been evolving for many years. We talk to Graham, Senior Perfumer at Carvansons about his years in the fragrance industry and how innovation is changing the future of fragrance.
Name: Graham Wakerley
Job Title: Senior Perfumer.
Favourite perfume: My favourite female fragrance is L’eau d’Issey and for Men it has to be Mont Blanc, Presence
People would describe me as: Laid back and friendly
“Without a doubt, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry has revolutionised the industry,” says Graham.
Graham has seen many changes throughout his time working in the fragrance industry and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry has without a doubt been one of the biggest game-changers. The science behind perfume is fascinating. Gas Chromatography is an analytical method used to identify different substances within a test sample.
“As a result of this technology, we are able to evaluate the exact ingredients in most solutions/products. Using this process, we are able to quickly and accurately evaluate a product and identify what elements make up a fragrance.”
The Role of a Perfumer
Graham has spent the last 40 years in the perfume industry and began his career working in fragrance compounding and worked up through the ranks into quality control and development through to his current position as Carvansons’ Senior Perfumer.
“I was involved in building the extensive fragrance library we have here at Carvansons. This library comprises of over 7,000 fragrance oils and perfumery materials. The knowledge contained within our fragrance library is a key part of why we are so good at what we do.”
Graham’s claim to fame is that he created one the most expensive natural perfumes in the world at the time and still enjoys identifying new elements and perfumery materials.
We asked him what inspires him and keeps him interested in the world of perfumery.
“We are always learning and we can always improve how we do things. For Carvansons, the next step is to better understand thermal desorption and solvent extraction. But what we are really looking forward to as a team is the move to the new state-of-the-art facility in Haslingden, Lancashire.
Graham goes on to say;
“People may be aware we are a family-run business but what they probably won’t realise is the far-reaching extent of the Carvansons business. Our export business has grown exponentially and specifically our reach in places like Dubai has driven much of our growth over the last few years.”
When Graham isn’t working, he enjoys investing in AV technologies (audio visual) such as projectors and speakers. During lockdown, he spent time upgrading his home cinema room.
Graham Wakerley is the Head Perfumer at Carvansons. For more information about our technical perfume and fragrance expertise which enable us to us deliver the best fragrances and aromas for our customers, click here.
About Carvansons
Carvansons is a world-leading creator and compounder of bulk fragrance oil. Our fragrances are used globally in the cosmetic, personal care, household and industrial manufacturing sectors. As a global fragrance manufacturer we create high-quality fragrance oil compounds, aromas and perfumes with a worldwide presence.
We work with many different companies throughout the world, which include both household names and smaller, niche industries. Whether your product is highly functional or beautifully indulgent we can create a fragrance that benefits and complements your product, brand and target audience.
Want more information?
Click here to request samples or talk to experience and knowledgeable team.
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