David Apel | Perfumer

From the analysis laboratory to international fine fragrance

David Apel began his career in Givaudan’s fragrance laboratories in 1980. The raw materials captured his interest, leading to an apprenticeship and further study in perfumery. His early experience also included heading a chromatography laboratory, combining analytical work with the development of his creative craft.

From 1993 to 1997, he worked in Paris. After joining Fragrance Resources, he returned to the United States and helped establish its fine-fragrance creation centre in New York. He rejoined Givaudan in 2001 and moved to Symrise in 2007.

His credited work includes Calvin Klein Escape for Men, Tom Ford Black Orchid, Jo Malone White Jasmine & Mint and Hugo by Hugo Boss, with shared authorship where applicable. Cooking, painting and travel form part of his wider interests. Apel’s career connects a detailed understanding of materials with experience across European and American fragrance markets, and across very different creative briefs.