SAMANTHA CUSICK IS AN INDUSTRY POWERHOUSE. COMBINING UNFALTERING COLOUR SKILLS AND BUSINESS INTUITION, HER BALAYAGE AND COLOUR SPECIALIST SALONS IN CENTRAL LONDON ARE A FAVOURITE WITH PRESS, INFLUENCERS AND CELEBRITIES. HER ROLE AS A GLOBAL AMBASSADOR FOR LEADING HAIR BRANDS SHOWCASES SAMANTHA’S ABILITY TO UNDERSTAND AND ENGAGE BOTH HAIRDRESSERS AND CONSUMERS.

Billy Ryan, Co-Director of Tribe Salons, has grown the family-run business from one site to a thriving multi-location salon group employing 26 people. Overseeing strategy, operations, HR, training, and client experience, he is recognised for his steady, values-driven leadership. Billy has championed gender-equal pricing, sustainability, and a culture of accountability and care. Balancing stability with innovation, he ensures Tribe’s profitability while offering full employment and benefits in a freelance-driven industry. Beyond the salon, he contributes to the wider sector through mentorship, education, and editorial work, advocating higher standards in employment and salon culture.

Benjamin Shipman is the Brand Director for Kasho and The Hair Movement Salon brand, where he also overseas their successful concept salon in Southeast London. As a third generation expert in the professional hairdressing industry, Benjamin blends his deep rooted industry knowledge with a background in behavioural psychology and a proven track record of working with the leadership of iconic global brands like Adidas, Levi's and IKEA

Tina Din is an Associate Solicitor at Irwin Mitchell LLP, specialising in employment law with a strong focus on advising across the creative, hospitality, and wellness sectors. Tina offers strategic legal guidance on workforce management, compliance, and dispute resolution. She has extensive experience advising on legal challenges from managing contracts and employment status to navigating discrimination claims and neurodiversity in the workplace.

The award-winning Brooks & Brooks team are one of the most dynamic teams in British hairdressing. Led by owners Sally Brooks and Jamie Brooks, the central London salon is a mecca for passion, education and creativity and is the Home of the Hair Artist. The business partners met when they both worked at the Trevor Sorbie salon in Covent Garden, before opening their eponymous salon in Holborn. 23 years later, Jamie, along with Sally, is a leader in business, creativity and hair innovation with stunning collections that push boundaries and the creative thinking of hairdressing.

Chris Grimley is a multi-award-winning hairdresser with over 40 years of experience in the industry. Having built a distinguished career spanning salon ownership, education, and session work, Chris has become a respected name in professional hairdressing. As the owner of Fusion Hair Co for the past 18 years, she leads a talented team of seven, establishing the salon as a destination renowned for its welcoming and inclusive approach to all hair textures. A specialist in curly and textured hair, Chris is passionate about education and equipping hairdressers with the confidence, skills, and cultural understanding needed to serve a diverse clientele. Her career has also included high-profile session work, showcasing versatility and creativity beyond the salon floor. Alongside her salon and education commitments, Chris is an ambassador for several leading professional hair brands, representing innovation and excellence while continuing to inspire the next generation of stylists.

Siobhan Jones is a global hair colour educator, brand ambassador, podcast host, and advocate for working mums in the hair industry. With nearly two decades of experience, she has built a reputation for breaking down complex education into clear, relatable teaching that empowers professionals at every stage of their career. Known for translating trends into understated, luxurious colour that feels personalised and wearable, Siobhan’s work inspires both clients and colourists worldwide. Through her podcast, The So Lovely Talk Show, and her ongoing advocacy, she continues to champion real conversations and positive change within the industry.