A BARNEY hairdresser has received high praise for her career success to date: going from a weekend worker as a teen, to a future franchise owner.
Jess Hesp was awarded Saks’ Special Recognition Award, a rare honour given for outstanding achievement.
The 27-year-old discovered her passion for hairdressing at the age of 14.
She said: “I had never thought I wanted to do hairdressing but I was encouraged to get Saturday jobs to earn some pocket-money. I enjoyed science and art and that is what hairdressing is – scientific and it is creative, so working here kind of drew me in.”
While doing an apprenticeship at the salon she entered a Saks image competition, which saw her style hair live in front of judges. She went on to become the regional winner.
Having identified her talent, owner Simon Folkes offered her and colleague Andrew Shaw a 20 per cent stake in the business.
On working for Saks, Ms Hesp said: “This company gives you so many opportunities and they look after you really well. As much as you have a family within your salon, you have a family in the whole company.
“We get training and the head office and the art team are constantly keeping us up-to-date with trends and stuff like that.”
Mr Folkes is now preparing her to take full ownership of the salon and she has taken on additional responsibilities such as recruitment, training and marketing.
The owner said: “Jess is a fantastic example of what Saks is all about. She has always seized every opportunity available to her and given 100 per cent.
“This has taken her to the Brit Awards, London Fashion Week and The Clothes Show Live, as well as positioning herself as the future owner of Saks Barnard Castle and a key member of the Saks art team.
“I couldn’t be any more proud of her and I’m excited to see what the future holds for her.”
