Mark O’Keeffe takes over as new Irish Hairdressers Federation president

Mark O’Keeffe has taken over as the new president of the Irish Hairdressers Federation (IHF) at the industry body’s recent AGM.

O’Keeffe is the owner of hair and beauty group Sugar Culture, which operates nine locations across Dublin. He began his hairdressing career at the age of 16, before opening his first salon Brown Sugar in 2005. 

He succeeds outgoing president Lisa Eccles, and he paid tribute to his predecessor. “I’d like to thank Lisa for being an incredible leader, who was always supportive, encouraging and unwavering in her attention to detail. Personally, I wouldn’t feel prepared for this role without the privilege of learning from her. Every day brought valuable lessons and beyond being an inspiring leader, Lisa has become one of my closest friends and confidantes.”

O’Keeffe is honouring a family tradition in his new role, as his father Frank served as IHF president almost 40 years ago. “It’s a great honour for me to follow in my father’s footsteps. As president, my focus will be on advocating for initiatives that support the industry’s growth, and creating pathways that provide valuable opportunities for aspiring professionals.”

He said his tenure will be shaped by advice once given to him by former IHF president and House of Colour owner David Campbell. “He said that it’s not just about giving back. It’s about seeing it through and that’s my commitment – to see it through to the end and leave the IHF in an even better position for those who come after me.”

Meanwhile, Nicola Lawless has been accounced as the new IHF vice-president. Lawless co-owns The Hair Company Broadstone in Dublin. “Nicola has proven herself to be a hardworking and diligent committee member, and no matter the task, if Nicola takes it on, it gets done,” said O’Keeffe.

The IHF’s AMG also saw the launch of the new IHF Art Team, led by Steven Kelly. According to the organisation, this initiative brings a creative dimension to its ongoing work as it celebrates talent and gives back to the industry by spotlighting exceptional work produced in Irish salons.