For over 40 years, Mark Hayes has been inspiring hairdressers at Sassoon with his passionate approach to hair and his technical expertise.
Mark’s signature style – a series of pared-down looks reflecting his love of modernist art and architecture – puts him at the forefront of global hair design, and his role as International Creative Director takes him all over the world coaching, teaching and inspiring.
Mark began his 40-year love affair with hair as an apprentice at the busy Sassoon Salon on South Molton Street, London in 1977. After completing the Sassoon intensive apprentice programme, Mark became a first level stylist in the chic Sloane Square salon in 1979. Mark knew instantly where his career should go – he wanted to become a member of the Creative Team. “They were perfectionists who were totally committed to producing the very best and I was completely inspired by them.”
Having built a successful and loyal clientele, it was not long before Mark thirsted for new challenges. In 1980 he moved into teaching at the London school; and then onto the acclaimed Academy where his charming manner and impeccable communication skills endeared him to hairdressers from all over the globe.
Mark’s passion for his art and rapport with his peers resulted in his promotion to Assistant Creative Director and a transfer to the Sassoon Salon Manchester in the summer of 1982. By 1984 Mark was promoted to Salon Creative Director and began travelling abroad to create looks on stage for industry events, behind the scenes for photo shoots and catwalk shows.
In 1986 Mark transferred back to London as UK Creative Director responsible for the education and development of the next generation of Sassoon Creative Directors dividing his time between the salons and academies, coaching the teams in all aspects of their work.
Mark’s yearly schedule revolves around developing the seasonal collections and leading the worldwide demand for Sassoon Hair Design and is as excited today as he was on his first day. As he puts it, “I take great pride in continuing the Sassoon legacy and now actively help mould the company and have the opportunity to create an energy and passion for hair in those around me. My goal is to give more people more creative opportunities more of the time. It has been an incredible journey so far”.
