Vidal Sassoon, a legendary name in precision cutting and modernist hair design, is embarking on an exciting new chapter in global creative leadership. With the appointment of Richard Ashforth as the new International Creative Director, the brand continues to push boundaries while honoring its storied design heritage.
Richard’s return to Sassoon marks a thrilling evolution for the house. After building a successful name in the industry and charting an impressive creative journey beyond the brand, his comeback brings renewed energy and a contemporary outlook that promises to redefine artistry at Sassoon.
“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.”
Mark Hayes: A New Era of Leadership
As part of this transition, Mark Hayes, a longstanding creative force at Sassoon, takes on the newly created position of Senior International Creative Director. Mark’s leadership role signals a new era for the brand’s creative evolution. He will oversee Vidal Sassoon’s global vision, steering international campaigns, seasonal collections, brand partnerships, and alignment across education, products, 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.”
Creative Collaboration at the Helm
Together, Mark Hayes and Richard Ashforth form a dynamic partnership that promises to steer Vidal Sassoon’s creative vision forward. Mark will set the global direction as Senior International Creative Director, while Richard leads the execution, focusing on campaigns, salon visuals, education content, and product creativity across global markets.
This strategic creative structure embodies the brand’s dual commitment to innovation and timeless design. As Vidal Sassoon Global CEO Debbie Webster explains, “This creative structure allows us to be both visionary and precise—global and local, timeless and cutting-edge. It gives us the clarity and flexibility we need to grow, inspire, and lead.”
Honouring Legacy, Building the Future
The announcement of Vidal Sassoon’s new leadership signals an ambitious investment in creative excellence. By blending artistry with innovation, the brand continues to honour its celebrated heritage while forging a bold, collaborative future that is set to inspire stylists and clients worldwide.
As Vidal Sassoon approaches its next chapter, the brand remains committed to revolutionizing modern hair design, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in precision and creativity.
