Simon Maynard left school in the small town of Leigh-on-Sea at the age of 15. It was a risky move, but he had a passion for hairdressing and drive to succeed. Trailblazer Simon took each step in his stride, remaining focused on his vision and enjoying every moment along the way, and ultimately made it big – styling hair for the likes of Calvin Klein, Jennifer Aniston and Kate Moss.
Now based in London's Mayfair, he can look back on years of success and think about his next move: helping a new generation of hairdressers snip their way to the top.
If you could give some advice to yourself 5 years ago, what would it be?
I think if I was to give myself any advice it would be to always listen and always try harder. Always strive to be better every day.
What’s been your biggest learning curve?
Learning to deal with different people and different situations. Hairdressing lets you meet the most eclectic groups of amazing people from all over the world. Every client is different, so every day is a brand new learning curve with a new challenge.
What was your most unexpected moment?
Opening my own business was unexpected! When I think back to 10 or 20 years ago I never would have imagined being self-employed, working on the campaigns I've worked on. I've gone from earning £25 a week to flying round the world doing what I love. I never would have guessed that would be possible.
What plans do you have for your business?
I plan to carry on doing what I'm doing. I want to keep meeting new people and I'm always exploring new avenues for work. I'm also now sharing my craft with others, teaching the hairdressing stars of the future.
Who gave you the best piece of business advice, and what was it?
My granddad. He taught me to always try harder and that’s something I try to do every day.
When did you realise your business was going to work?
From the age of 18 when I moved to London, that’s when I knew. I had been working in a little residential town, Leigh-on-Sea, but when I moved to London I knew I could become a proper, full-time professional hairdresser and do what I always wanted to.
How would you like to be remembered as a businessperson?
As everyone knows, a bad hair day can make or break any occasion. If you do a good job, it can make people super happy, confident and overjoyed, and that’s why I do my job. But as long as I'm seen as someone who cares about what they do, I’ll be happy.
What tips do you have for anyone thinking of starting a business?
Always listen. Listen to your clients and listen to their needs. Without my clients I wouldn't be where I am today.
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