Celebrating the woman who made headmasters more than just a salon
This International Women’s Day at Headmasters, we are celebrating the enduring impact of its co-founder, Christine Sanders, a woman who transformed a local family business into one of the largest salon groups in London and the South East.
Since opening her first salon in 1982 with her husband John, Christine’s vision has been rooted in the belief that hairdressing is not just a job, but a respected, lifelong career, built on hard work and a genuine love or hairdressing.
From Founder to Future Leaders
It was a family business with a simple but powerful vision at its heart: to create a salon experience that combined exceptional technical skills with outstanding customer care. Christine believed clients deserved not only beautiful hair, but to feel welcomed, valued and confident every time they walked through the door.
Today, that vision is realised through a leadership team she personally mentored, including Chief Operating Officer Laura Geary and Creative Ambassador Clare Hansford, both of whom began their careers as Christine’s apprentices.
“Christine didn’t just teach us how to cut hair; she encouraged us to dream bigger. She saw potential in young apprentices before they saw it in themselves – she built confidence, championed ambition and created opportunity. We continue that mission today through the ‘Christine Sanders Future Stars Award’ at our annual Headmasters Awards, an honour that recognises the same raw talent and ambition Christine championed from the very beginning. Her legacy isn’t just the salons we see on the high street – it’s all the women she empowered to become leaders in their own right.”
Laura Geary, Headmasters COO
A Legacy that still leads us
Christine led with a rare blend of energy, warmth, and determination. She championed the belief that education is the ultimate key to success – a principle that remains the heartbeat of the modern Headmasters Group. Today, this legacy lives on through the Headmasters London Academy, providing world-class training for stylists at every stage of their career, from fresh talent to industry experts. We have an Award dedicated to Christine which takes place annually. It is a chance for apprentices to showcase their talent and step into the world of professional hairdressing.
Her story is a reminder that when women believe in themselves and in each other incredible things happen. This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate Christine and every woman who leads, inspires and empowers the next generation.
Confidence starts in the chair. Book your International Women’s Day appointment now.
