What might surprise readers about the salon industry?

There is a huge misconception that a hairstylist has a glamorous, somewhat easy profession. Even though it has its glamorous moments nothing could be further from the truth. It's a profession that requires talent, passion and a strong work ethic to survive. Being a stylist is physically, emotionally and mentally challenging. Ongoing education and good people skills are essential for a stylist wanting to succeed.  Commitment and consistency are required to build a clientele and become a career stylist.

What types of challenges do you see the company overcoming in the future?

The demand for service is strong in our salons.  In some areas, we notice that human resources can be an issue. Chatters has responded to these challenges by adopting an innovative immigration program. We have expanded on our education programs and enhanced loyalty builders with our existing team members. This has created tremendous results for us.  We have also managed to bring experienced hairstylists into markets where we couldn’t find skilled people. We have dramatically impacted our service business by building talented salon teams.

What skills do you find especially valuable in your career?

I am a people person so I find engaging with franchisees and building good rapport with them comes quite naturally. I am fortunate to have the ability to surround my self with exceptionally talented people who help me to achieve my visions. Anticipating what is coming around the corner and determining what to do next has been key to our success. As a company we are always evolving and being innovative in order to continue to be relevant and be the best choice for our salon guests.

Where do you see Chatters in five years?

As with many businesses, we are regrouping to ensure all systems are in sync with the new economy and positioned well to ensure chain growth. I see Chatters establishing an international presence, so the future is definitely looking bright.

If you had to do it all over again what would you change?

I would have recognized the power centre market and how successful that was going to be.

Has there been a key influence in your life?

My parents and specifically my father have been a tremendous influence in my life. He has been in invaluable source of inspiration for me, providing feedback and insights.

If you could do anything else what would you do?

I have never wanted to do anything else. I was fortunate to start in this business at 17. My journey has taken me from working for distributors, then into the salon, on to becoming an educator, technical instructor, manufacturer rep, into leasing and franchising and even a wholesaler with salons and now operations. My career has evolved dramatically and I have been blessed to always have something new happening. My passion comes from growing with the business.

What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment?

Something I am really proud of is putting a team of people together at Chatters Canada to grow this business to where it is today and where it will be in the future. Growing a chain of hair salons from 1 to 100 is not something any one person achieves. It takes a team of carefully selected individuals. Recognizing the right people for the job is an important part of the process and has been key to making Chatters what it is today. I am also fortunate to have such a supportive wife and family who share my passion for the salon industry.

What do you do to relax and unwind?

I enjoy travelling, diving and playing golf. I enjoy spending time with my family, particularly family dinners.