I want that job! andrew barton

Andrew Barton is one of the country's best-loved and best-known hairdressers, thank to his TV work and flair for creating gorgeous, feel-good hair. Here, we find out more about where he got to where he is today. When did you decide you wanted to be a hairdresser? I wasn't a great scholar at school but loved art, design and fashion and was destined for art college. I started to study but the call to get a job and earn money took over. I quite literally drifted into hairdressing as a job and a potential career. Little did I know then where it would lead me. Where did you train? I completed a formal style apprenticeship in my native Yorkshire at a salon with a huge reputation for quality and high standards. It was tough but created the foundation of my career. What was your first job like? I was constantly learning and taught very high standards. It was fun too, meeting so many characters. Did you feel you had to move to London to make a name for yourself? Because of its size, London can offer so many different opportunities. For me it was where I wanted to be. Can you remember your first ‘celebrity’ hair job? Yes. I was so very nervous, but learnt quickly that celebs are just the same as you and I. They can be having a good or a bad day just like you, and are full of their own dramas and emotions. Treat people with kindness and generally that's what you get back. It's not cool to be rude. How did you get started in the world of TV hairdressing? I was approached to attend an audition for a TV show that needed a hairdresser expert as part of a makeover team. It led me to work on the Lorraine Kelly Breakfast Show for a number of years. How do you balance your TV/editorial work with running a successful salon? Do you still see clients? I look after clients at the salon six to eight days a month. The rest of my diary is managed between a number of projects including marketing, PR and editorial/session work. I have the support of an amazing team: my creative director, Tracey Gallagher; technical director, AJ Blackadder; my PA; agent and a great PR. Phew! It all sounds like a lot, but it's their efforts and care that makes my world revolve smoothly and harmoniously. I'm currently working on two exciting new projects: the relaunch of my signature consumer hair care brand and another which I can't tell you about just yet – but watch this space! How do you cope with your work being commented on by the whole world? Interesting question. I was taught during my apprenticeship that the standard of 'OK' is not good enough. That has stayed with me ever since and has become a benchmark for all I do. Design and creativity is a question of taste and someone else's personal taste and view - so I rarely think about what other's think. As long as it's ticked the box for me that it's better than OK, then my job is done. That applies to everything from looking after a client to creating a new shampoo or producing a great image. We have one word that runs through the heart of the Andrew Barton and it's the word ‘GORGEOUS’! If it looks gorgeous, then it’s right for us. What skills would you say are essential to someone getting involved in TV work? The obvious ones of hard work, enthusiasm and dedication. TV production companies are always looking for diversity, so I'm not sure I know the exact answer to this question. I guess being flexible is key. What piece of advice would you give your student self? Never to accept the standard of OK as a standard ... it has stood me in good stead since my early apprenticeship years. Looking for your next career move? Take a look at HJi Jobs for all of the latest hair and beauty job opportunities!