Caroline Larissey - new NHBF chief executive

After an extensive recruitment process, the National Hair & Beauty Federation has appointed Caroline Larissey as the new Chief Executive. Formerly the organisation’s Director of Quality and Standards, Caroline is a well-known and respected expert in her field and begins the role with immediate effect.

Caroline’s early career saw her working her way through the ranks, from joining the sector as a YTS learner at 16, to stylist, beauty therapist, business owner, further education lecturer and progressing on to National Training Manager(2002). Her passion, determination and dedication to the sector saw her take instrumental roles; the National 14-19 Diploma Project Lead for hair and beauty at Habia (2006), Head of Standards and Qualifications for SkillsActive, incorporating Habia (2013) and the Director of Quality and Standards at the NHBF (2018). Caroline distinguished career has provided her with an extensive knowledge of regulatory compliance, industry best practices, quality management systems, and standards which has earned her a reputation as a dedicated and results-driven individual.

In her time with the NHBF, Caroline is widely recognised and respected across the sector  for her contributions to the development of standards, quality, and guidance to support the recognition and value of the sector. She has continued to champion the employer's and practitioners voice, acting as a conduit between the industry, professional bodies, Government agencies, departments, and ministers on issues that affect the sector. She is also an active chairperson, vice president, ambassador, advisor, and board member of various industry, Government, quality assurance, regulatory, education groups across the sector.

Caroline says,

“Supporting the hair and beauty sector is my passion. This was the basis at the start of my own career over 35 years ago as a learner, 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 real understanding of our members requirements. Over the last 20 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”

Earlier this year Caroline was recognised amongst the first ever Powerlist which celebrates inspirational women in Trade Associations, chosen from an impressive portfolio including Trade Associations Federation (TAF), Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).