Welcome back to the Sassoon family Richard Ashforth. We’re over the moon to hear Richard has been appointed International Creative Director, in a move that sees Sassoon legend Mark Hayes become Senior International Creative Director. What a duo!
Richard returns to Sassoon after carving out an impressive creative journey beyond the brand, building his own successful name in the industry. His comeback brings a renewed energy and a contemporary outlook, grounded in a profound connection to Sassoon’s design heritage. “I’m absolutely delighted to be coming back to Sassoon and reuniting creatively with Mark Hayes,” says Richard. “It’s an incredible honour to step into this role, following in the footsteps of some of our industry’s most iconic names. I look forward to adding a fresh creative perspective to the house, whilst upholding the cherished codes that have established this monumental heritage.”
Moving on up
In his new position Mark will continue to shape and drive the global vision for Vidal Sassoon, overseeing international campaigns, seasonal collections, brand partnerships, and strategic alignment across education, product, and salon experiences. “As I step into this role, I’m proud to carry forward a brand philosophy rooted in architecture, precision, and innovation,” says Mark Hayes. “This is not just an evolution of my own journey with Vidal Sassoon, but an opportunity to shape the next era of creative excellence for our teams and clients around the world.”
Together, Mark and Richard form a powerful creative partnership at the helm of Sassoon. As Senior International Creative Director, Mark will set the global vision and strategic direction, while International Creative Director Richard Ashforth leads the execution – overseeing campaign development, in-salon visuals, education content, and product creativity across global markets. “This creative structure allows us to be both visionary and precise, global and local, timeless and cutting-edge,” says Debbie Webster, Vidal Sassoon Global CEO. “It gives us the clarity and flexibility we need to grow, inspire, and lead.”
For more of the latest industry news click here
________________________________
Respect is a hub for UK hairdressers of all ages and stages to find out what We Love, We Hear and We See as the best product launches, styling advice, hairtools, education training and seminars and hairshows! Sign up to our newsletter which is sent fortnightly direct to your email, so you stay up-to-date with salon styling information, trends in session work, advice on presenting on stage or progress in educating- whatever your interest, whether you’re a trainee or creative director, an educator or team leader, you’ll find all the opportunities and ideas on www.respectyou.me
