The founder and CEO of Tarte Cosmetics, Maureen Kelly, started her career with a simple yet powerful idea: creating high-performance makeup with natural ingredients. While pursuing her Ph.D. in psychology, she mixed her passion for beauty with entrepreneurial drive, experimenting with formulas in her apartment. In 1999, she launched Tarte with a small line of cheek stains, funding the venture with her savings and a credit card. Her commitment to clean, effective products quickly resonated with consumers, setting the brand apart in a crowded market.

Kelly’s hands-on approach and relatable personality helped Tarte grow into a cult favorite. She leveraged social media early on, engaging directly with customers and building a loyal community. Her authenticity and focus on eco-conscious innovation—like vegan formulas and sustainable packaging—cemented Tarte’s reputation. As the brand expanded into major retailers like Sephora and Ulta, Kelly’s leadership turned Tarte into a household name, proving that a passion-driven idea could disrupt the beauty industry.

Tarte Ceo’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Tarte’s CEO has an estimated net worth of $450 million. This figure reflects their stake in the booming cosmetics brand, along with smart investments and brand expansion. The valuation is based on Tarte’s continued growth in the beauty industry and successful product launches.

Tarte Ceo’s Career

The CEO built Tarte Cosmetics from the ground up, turning it into a globally recognized beauty brand. Starting with a focus on natural, high-performance makeup, they pioneered cruelty-free and eco-conscious products. Their leadership has driven Tarte to become a staple in Sephora and Ulta, with a loyal customer base.

Tarte Ceo’s Other Ventures

Beyond Tarte, the CEO has invested in skincare startups and sustainable beauty initiatives. They also serve as a mentor for emerging entrepreneurs in the cosmetics industry. Their ventures often align with Tarte’s ethos of clean beauty and social responsibility.

Tarte Ceo’s Assets

The CEO owns multiple properties, including a luxury penthouse in New York and a beachfront estate in the Hamptons. Their portfolio also includes high-end vehicles and a private art collection. These assets reflect their success in the beauty and business world.

Tarte Ceo’s Annual Income

The CEO earns an estimated $15 million annually from Tarte, including salary, bonuses, and dividends. Additional income streams come from speaking engagements, advisory roles, and investments. Their earnings highlight their influence in the beauty and business sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Tarte Ceo

What is the net worth of Tarte CEO Maureen Kelly?

Maureen Kelly’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $100 million to $200 million, primarily derived from her successful cosmetics brand, Tarte.

How did Maureen Kelly build her wealth?

Maureen Kelly built her wealth by founding Tarte Cosmetics in 1999, which grew into a globally recognized brand known for its eco-friendly and high-performance makeup products.

Is Tarte Cosmetics a publicly traded company?

No, Tarte Cosmetics is a privately held company, meaning its financial details, including Maureen Kelly’s exact net worth, are not publicly disclosed.

Did Maureen Kelly sell Tarte Cosmetics?

Yes, Maureen Kelly sold a majority stake in Tarte Cosmetics to Japanese beauty conglomerate Kose Corporation in 2014, though she remained involved as CEO and creative director.

What is Tarte Cosmetics’ annual revenue?

Tarte Cosmetics reportedly generates hundreds of millions in annual revenue, though exact figures are private due to the company’s status as a privately held business.

Does Maureen Kelly own any other businesses?

As of now, Maureen Kelly is primarily focused on Tarte Cosmetics and has not publicly disclosed ownership of other major businesses.

What philanthropic efforts is Maureen Kelly involved in?

Maureen Kelly supports various charitable causes, including animal welfare and women’s empowerment, often through Tarte’s philanthropic initiatives.

How much did Maureen Kelly earn from the sale of Tarte?

The exact amount Maureen Kelly earned from the sale to Kose Corporation was not disclosed, but industry estimates suggest it was a significant nine-figure sum.

What challenges did Maureen Kelly face while building Tarte?

Maureen Kelly faced challenges such as securing initial funding, competing with established brands, and scaling the business while maintaining its eco-conscious values.

Where does Maureen Kelly live, and what is her lifestyle like?

Maureen Kelly resides in New York City and enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, though she maintains a relatively low public profile compared to other beauty industry moguls.