Interview with hj's 2010 business director of the year mark woolley
Published
05th Oct 2010
by sophieh
In January, Mark Woolley, HJ's 2010 Business Director of the Year, took his Electric brand to London. Now, in an exclusive interview with HJi, Mark talks about his first year in London, as well as his plans for the expansion of the brand.
Why was it important to open in London?
We wanted to make our own stamp on the capital, and Marylebone is an area that really suits the Electric ethos. Also, most of my work is in London - including photoshoots, VIP/celebrity appointments and press commitments.
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Is there an Electric format?
We are certainly not a roll-out salon group concept, but Electric does have a strong personality. Electric is a handful of individual, quality-driven, aspirational salons. It is important, however, that every salon has its own identity. Our strategy is to offer a top West End-quality service to all our clients whether in London, Brighton or Reading.
What challenges have the first few months brought?
The business environment in London is fiercely competitive and people are fickle, but I wouldn't have it any other way. You need to put in 110%, every day, and each client needs to be treated like your last. I actually would not want to open anywhere easy. It's important to be challenged; you can't be complacent or you'll be dead in the water.
From a staff perspective, it's about making them feel part of something special; an extended family where long-term relationships are nurtured.
How easy was it to staff the new salon?
We moved a couple of employees from the Brighton and Reading salons and some I had worked with previously in London. I wanted to open up with our culture already in place.
How do you divide your time between salons?
My role is to spearhead Electric, so I run a column one day a week in London, Brighton and Reading with a couple of days wherever the need takes me. All my press, celebrity and VIP clients are looked after in London.
How did you select the right manager for the new salon?
I believe that if someone is good enough to manage, they are good enough to own a portion of the salon. I work hard to train up managers to get to that level, nurturing them over a long period of time to become a partner.
Has the recession had an effect on business?
No, I don't think recession has affected the business. If you can make it work during a recession, just think what you can do in more stable economic periods. When I opened in Brighton there was a mini-economic crisis around 9/11. My advice is go for it and don't be scared of recession.
Any plans to open more Electric salons?
The plan for Electric is 10 aspirational salons in key cities, incorporating interesting buildings, locations, core values and one brand name.
