Gaël Montero | Perfumer

French and Spanish influences, developed through a Dubai creative base

Gaël Montero grew up in Madrid with French and Spanish parents. He moved to France to study cinema before changing direction towards perfumery, attracted by a profession that brought together the senses and the arts.

An assistant-perfumer opportunity in Spain introduced him to Jordi Fernández. Two years working alongside Fernández preceded his entry into the Givaudan Perfumery School. Earlier experience selling niche Middle Eastern fragrances in Montpellier also helped him understand the region’s perfume culture.

His subsequent work in Givaudan’s Dubai office allowed him to explore the connections between Middle Eastern and Western tastes. In a Fragrance Foundation interview, Montero described culture and close relationships with clients as important parts of his practice. He is interested in how different markets influence one another and in the variety of people who encounter a fragrance. His career connects formal training with the practical knowledge gained through selling, discussing and wearing perfume.