The hairdressing industry is mourning the sudden passing of Dr John Rainey, Chairman of Denroy and Denman, who died in the early hours of this morning (Tuesday 10 Feb 2026). Widely respected as a visionary engineer, dedicated family businessman and champion of people, Dr Rainey led the with compassion, curiosity and integrity, leaving behind a legacy that shaped both the brands and the wider professional hair community.
In a heartfelt statement, the company described the loss as “immeasurable,” paying tribute to a man who was not only a respected chairman but also a devoted family man, visionary engineer and inspiring entrepreneur. As the leader of the family business, Dr Rainey was known for his deep personal commitment to both Denroy and Denman. Colleagues say he poured his heart into every aspect of the companies, guided by the same love, care and integrity he showed to his own family, whom he adored and spoke of with immense pride. He was widely regarded as a remarkable leader who genuinely cared for the people around him.
His belief in the wellbeing, growth and future of employees helped shape the culture of the business, creating an environment built on trust, opportunity and respect. The company said his passion was woven into everything he did, as he built, nurtured and championed the business as though it were an extension of his home. Known for his high standards, boundless curiosity and generosity, he was remembered by colleagues as “an extraordinary boss and an exceptional human being.”
Outside of work, Dr Rainey was known for his wide-ranging interests, including a love of books, history and collecting, alongside a lifelong commitment to engineering and innovation. He also held a deep concern for the environment, with his dedication to sustainability shaping the company’s direction long before it became a mainstream focus within the industry. In its statement, the company said it mourns the loss of “a leader, a mentor, a colleague and a dear friend,” while also celebrating the legacy he leaves behind, one that is built on kindness, curiosity, courage and love. Through his mentorship and belief in people, Dr Rainey invested heavily in developing the next generation of leaders, ensuring the future of the business he cared for so deeply. The company closed its tribute with a quote from one of his favourite authors, A.A. Milne: “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”
Hairdressers Journal's thoughts are with the Rainey family and the Denroy and Denman family and friends.
