NHBF appoints Caroline Larissey as new chief executive Creative HEAD Magazine

Hair and beauty industry figurehead, Caroline Larissey, is the National Hair & Beauty Federation’s new chief executive

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) has appointed Caroline Larissey as its new chief executive with immediate effect, she replaces Richard Lambert who stepped down from the role earlier this year. Prior to this, Caroline was the NHBF’s director of quality and standards, a role she took on in 2018.

Caroline brings a strong knowledge of regulatory compliance, industry best practices, quality management systems and standards, gained from her many years spent in the hair and beauty industry, and the various roles she has held. She joined the sector at age sixteen and became a beauty therapist, then a business owner, and eventually a further education lecturer. In 2002, she became a national training manager and by 2006 was the national 14-19 diploma project lead for hair and beauty at The Hair and Beauty Industry Authority (Habia). In 2013, she took on the position of head of standards and qualifications for the Sector Skills Council, SkillsActive.

A proactive conduit between the industry, professional bodies, government agencies, departments, and ministers on issues that affect the sector, Caroline is also involved in industry education groups. Earlier this year, she was named in the first-ever Powerlist, which highlights inspirational women in Trade Associations.

Commenting on her appointment Caroline said: “Supporting the hair and beauty sector is my passion. This was the basis at the start of my own career over thirty-five years ago as a learner, and then business owner. I totally understand and appreciate the challenges and successes a hair and beauty business can face, as I have experience, empathy and a real understanding of our members’ requirements. Over the last twenty years, I have dedicated myself to specifically raising quality and standards and championing the sector.

“I fully understand and appreciate the diverse industries, people, influences and organisations we represent. I have had the honour of playing a pivotal role in the many changes, challenges, highs and lows the sector has faced. I feel the position of chief executive at the NHBF will enable me to support our members in achieving their full business potential by helping them to maintain safe, legal, and profitable businesses. Plus help the sector gain the recognition it truly deserves by continuing to work with the UK government and promoting our contribution to the UK economy.”