Kirsty Reader

Experienced Director, Salon Manager, and Hair & Beauty Professional with over 25 years of experience leading teams, managing business operations, and delivering exceptional customer service within fast-paced salon environments. A highly organised and commercially aware professional with extensive experience in team leadership, staff development, recruitment, training, performance management, stock control, payroll administration, supplier negotiations, and health and safety compliance. Proficient in the use of salon management software, including Phorest, and Microsoft Excel for payroll preparation, attendance records, rota management, and business reporting.

Recognised for building strong customer relationships, developing high-performing teams, and creating positive business outcomes through effective leadership, communication, and attention to detail.

Director - DELACY HAIR AND BEAUTY

(2017-01)

Lead the day-to-day operation of two successful salon locations, managing a team of 35 employees and ensuring exceptional customer service, staff development, and business performance.

• Manage and develop a team of 35 employees across two salon locations.
• Oversee recruitment, induction, training, coaching, and performance management.
• Conduct regular staff appraisals and development reviews.
• Manage staff rotas, attendance records, holiday planning, and payroll administration.
• Utilise Phorest salon software to manage appointments, client records, reporting, staff performance, and daily business operations.
• Maintain and update Excel spreadsheets for payroll preparation, attendance monitoring, staffing records, and business administration.
• Coordinate stock purchasing, inventory management, and supplier relationships.
• Negotiate supplier agreements, discounts, and rebate structures.
• Deliver training programmes covering customer service, retail sales, health and safety, salon standards, and industry developments.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety and fire safety requirements.
• Design promotional window displays and maintain high presentation standards throughout salon and spa areas.
• Configure and prepare spa treatment rooms to create a professional and welcoming environment for clients.
• Resolve customer concerns professionally and effectively.
• Facilitate business meetings to maintain consistency and service standards across both locations.

Career Break – Family Responsibilities

(2012-01 - 2017-12)

Took a planned career break to raise my family while maintaining awareness of industry developments, customer service trends, product innovations, and professional best practice.

Salon Manager - DELACY HAIR AND BEAUTY

(2011-01 - 2012-12)

• Managed daily operations across two salon locations.
• Led staff development, training, and performance management activities.
• Oversaw stock control, payroll preparation, supplier relationships, and staffing administration.
• Maintained attendance, holiday, and staffing records.
• Ensured high standards of customer service and operational performance.

Salon Manager - UNIQUE HAIR SALONS

(2007-01 - 2011-12)

• Managed a team of 10 employees.
• Oversaw staffing schedules, attendance records, and holiday management.
• Delivered staff training, coaching, and performance reviews.
• Managed stock control and supplier relationships.
• Maintained salon presentation standards and created promotional window displays.
• Supported the achievement of business and sales targets.

Hair Apprentice to Senior Stylist & Salon Manager - LIFESTYLE HAIR AND BEAUTY

(1995-01 - 2005-12)

Progressed from Hair Apprentice to Salon Manager during a successful ten-year career.

• Managed a team of 25 employees.
• Built and maintained a loyal client base.
• Delivered technical training and staff development programmes.
• Managed stock control, supplier relationships, and workforce scheduling.
• Conducted appraisals and performance reviews.
• Achieved operational and sales targets while maintaining a busy client column.