Claire Herbert — CEO

I’ve been a part of the hair and beauty industry since 1986, and looking back, it’s been an incredible journey—one that continues to surprise me. Growing up in the Midlands in the 1970s, I never imagined that this industry would take me to places I’d only dreamed of. Yet, here I am, more than 30 years later, still deeply passionate about the industry and helping shape its future. I started as an eager apprentice, learning the craft from the ground up, and little did I know that this would evolve into a lifelong career. The opportunities I’ve had—both professionally and personally—have been beyond belief. I’ve travelled the world, explored beautiful corners of the UK, and worked alongside talented people who’ve all played a role in shaping my journey. For many years, I managed and owned salons, gaining invaluable experience on both the creative and business sides of the industry. However, in 2019, I decided to leave the salon world behind and join Phorest, the leading salon software company. This was a significant shift for me, but it allowed me to continue doing what I love while expanding my impact across the industry. Now, I work alongside salon owners and professionals, helping them optimise their businesses and grow through innovative software solutions. In addition to my role at Phorest, I’m still deeply committed to training and development. I created my own training academy to help nurture the next generation of hair professionals and offer them the same opportunities I had. My focus is on empowering teams and individuals, passing on my knowledge and experience to keep the industry thriving. Looking back, I’ve realised that an apprenticeship isn’t just a two-year commitment; it’s the foundation of a lifetime career. What started as a short-term goal for me has turned into a fulfilling, lifelong journey. The hair and beauty industry is a gift that keeps on giving, and I’m so grateful for everything it’s brought into my life. While I’m no longer working directly in a salon, my work at Phorest and my commitment to mentoring others keeps me connected to the heart of the industry. The journey is far from over, and I’m excited to continue making an impact, sharing my passion, and supporting the professionals who will shape the future of hair and beauty.

Stackforce AI infers this person is a SaaS expert focused on customer success and educational leadership in the beauty industry.

Location: Warrington, England, United Kingdom

Experience: 23 yrs 10 mos