Berkhamsted salon director named Manager of the Year in British Hairdressing Business Awards

The salon director of a hair salon in Berkhamsted has been named Manager of the Year at HJ's British Hairdressing Business Awards 2020.

Sean Butt, of Alchemy & I, impressed a host of industry judges with his outstanding management skills, ability to make a team feel valued and inspired, all flavoured with a unique leadership style.

The Manager of the Year award, sponsored by Kao Salon Division, recognises those who lead, inspire and motivate a single salon.

HJ's British Hairdressing Business Awards, now in its 22nd year, promote professionalism, innovation and excellence while recognising those individuals and teams who work tirelessly to raise the profile of the hairdressing industry.

Adapting to the new normal, this year all the award winners were announced during a virtual ceremony on Monday, January 25.

The judges noted that Sean had a fantastic strategy for getting to know new team members which has been pivotal to the salon's success - putting everything into the role and the team.

Sean said: “I feel incredibly honoured to have been named Manager of the Year, it’s such an amazing thing to happen after such a tough year.

"I firstly want to say a huge thank you to Haylee who has challenged, pushed and supported me every step of the way.

"I also want to thank the incredible Alchemy team as I wouldn't be able to do what I do without them and then of course, to my other half for their constant support.

"And also a massive thank you to the sponsors and HJ for hosting such a fantastic event despite all of the challenges.”

Jayne Lewis-Orr, executive director of HJ's British Hairdressing Business Awards, said: "If there were ever a year to celebrate business ingenuity it is this unprecedented year.

"It feels wonderful to recognise and celebrate the individuals and teams that have continued to demonstrate incredible talent and great business acumen.

"Sean has proven completely that he can lead and inspire a team and create a thriving business, especially in the face of adversity.

"A huge congratulations to Sean, who should be very proud of his achievement."

Alchemy & I were also shortlisted out of 10,000 British salons for three other awards:

> Salon Design

> Customer Experience

> Independent Salon – Business Newcomer.

Alchemy & I founder and CEO, Haylee Benton, said: “I am so proud of Sean and how much he has achieved - his determination, talent and passion has been crucial for helping Alchemy & I be the best that it can be.

"While we didn’t win all of the awards we were shortlisted for, it was an honour in itself to be in the top five for each category.”

For more information on the hair salon, which is temporarily closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, click here.