Our people

Appointed as chief executive in 2023 after serving as director of quality and standards since 2017. Leads corporate decision-making, directs workforce and resources toward strategic goals, and serves as the primary liaison between the NHBF board and operations. Governed by the NHBF rules and governance framework.

As the beating heart of the organisation, Caroline brings passion and drive to support the sector and champion professional excellence and recognition. A proud former hairdresser, therapist, business owner, lecturer and training and education provider with extensive management and leadership experience.

Caroline bridges industry and government to support NHBF Member businesses and the wider sector, collaborating with professional bodies, agencies, and ministers on standards, training, funding, and regulations. An ambassador, advocate and champion of the sector driving change through example while supporting NHBF Members to operate safely, legally, and profitably. She also serves as chairperson, advisor, and board member across key sector groups.

With over 20 years of experience in audit, accountancy, and business management across diverse industries, Sarah Pigden oversees all day-to-day operational finance and strategic financial planning for the NHBF.

Her expertise ensures sound fiscal management that supports our mission to serve the hair and beauty sector. Working closely with the executive team and board of directors, Sarah translates complex financial data into actionable insights that inform the NHBF’s strategic direction and resource allocation, ultimately strengthening our ability to support our Members across the sector.

With over 30 years of experience in the hairdressing industry and education sector, Cathy's previous role over a 20+ year period with a well-known training provider and salon franchise helped transform the business to achieve consistent Ofsted grade 1 status in training and education.

During this time, she worked closely with central government as the Vice Chair of the Hair and Beauty route panel and served as a National Apprenticeship Ambassador promoting apprenticeships on behalf of the industry.

Cathy brings this knowledge and practical insight to the NHBF to support our Members. She also provides vital support to the Quality Standards and Education Advisory board, facilitating collaboration between members and organisational leadership.

Leading our friendly and knowledgeable membership team for over 30 years, Tina oversees operations that respond to more than 20,000 member inquiries annually. Her extensive experience ensures Members receive expert guidance and support while maintaining the high service standards that have become the hallmark of our organization.

Tina's leadership fosters strong relationships with Members across the hair and beauty sector, helping them access the resources and assistance they need to thrive.

She also provides vital support to the Membership and Community Advisory Board, facilitating collaboration between members and our organisational leadership.

With extensive experience navigating Westminster and Whitehall, Rosina successfully champions legal and regulatory changes that benefit our Members. She effectively represents Member perspectives on critical issues including wages, standards, and taxation to policymakers throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Her strategic advocacy ensures the hair and beauty sector's voice is clearly heard and influential at all levels of government. She also provides vital support to the Policy and Public Affairs Advisory Board, facilitating collaboration between Members and our organisational leadership.