In a new series, we chat to our Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2026 winners about their career and business, and what it takes to thrive in the industry.
Ikon Hair Design won Hair Salon of the Year, sponsored by Revlon Professional, with owner Valerie Finnegan Cahill answering our questions.
Can you tell us about your career journey to date?
I started out in the industry because I genuinely loved the creativity and connection that comes with hairdressing. From early on, I realised it was about so much more than hair; it’s about confidence, making people feel good and building relationships.
Like most people in the industry, I learned from the ground up, working on the salon floor, developing my skills and gaining experience over the years. As my career evolved, I became increasingly passionate not just about hair, but about leadership, education and helping others grow within the industry too. That naturally led me into salon ownership, training and mentoring, which I love because it allows me to support and encourage others, while still staying connected to the creative side of the industry.
It’s definitely been a journey with plenty of hard work, challenges and learning along the way, but I honestly wouldn’t change it. This industry has given me so many opportunities and introduced me to some incredible people.
What have been the highlights and the moments you are most proud of?
One of the things I’m most proud of is the culture myself and the team have created together. Building an environment where people feel supported, motivated and accountable, and genuinely enjoy coming to work, is something that means a lot to me.
Over the years, I’ve learned how important strong foundations are within a salon, not just creatively, but in the way a team communicates, works together and operates day to day. When there’s structure, clarity and a positive culture in place, it creates a much better experience for both the team and the clients. That side of the industry is something I’ve become really passionate about, because I know first-hand how much of a difference it makes to the overall success and wellbeing of a salon. Watching people grow in confidence, develop their careers and become part of something positive is incredibly rewarding.
Winning awards is obviously a huge honour too, but some of the moments I’m most proud of are often the everyday ones – happy clients, team achievements and knowing we’ve created an environment people genuinely want to be part of.
What do you love most about the industry?
Definitely the people. I love the relationships you build and the difference you can make to someone’s confidence and wellbeing, often without even realising it. I also love that the industry never stands still. There’s always something new to learn, new trends emerging and new opportunities to grow. No two days are ever the same, which keeps it exciting. It’s such a creative industry, but it’s also incredibly rewarding on a personal level because of the connections you make along the way.
I think many salon owners are incredibly talented creatively, but running a successful salon also requires leadership, communication and strong day-to-day organisation
Are there challenges in the industry, and how can they be overcome?
There are definitely challenges, especially around recruitment, retention and the pressures salon owners face behind the scenes. I think many salon owners are incredibly talented creatively, but running a successful salon also requires leadership, communication and strong day-to-day organisation. That can feel overwhelming at times when you’re trying to manage everything at once.
For me, creating clear expectations, positive team culture and consistent ways of working makes such a difference. When salons have strong systems and structure in place, teams tend to feel more supported, confident and aligned, which naturally creates a better environment for everyone.
I also think continuing education and being open to evolving is really important. The industry changes constantly, and the salons that continue to grow are usually the ones willing to adapt, while still keeping people at the centre of what they do.
What traits do you think are most important in order to thrive in the industry?
Passion and hard work are definitely important, but I think consistency, resilience and people skills are what really help you build a long-term career. You have to be willing to keep learning because the industry is always evolving. Being adaptable and open-minded makes such a difference. I also think authenticity matters. Clients and teams connect with genuine people, and building trust and relationships is such a huge part of what we do.
Were you surprised to win a Beauty, Hair & Spa Award, and what does winning mean to you?
I honestly was surprised, and incredibly grateful. When you’re busy focusing on your clients, your team and running a business, you don’t always stop to reflect on how far you’ve come. Winning the award meant a lot because it felt like recognition for everything we have built together over the years, and for the hard work, the passion, the dedication and the incredible team behind it all. It’s something I’m really proud of, and it’s lovely to be recognised within an industry that I care so much about.
What advice would you give anyone who is thinking about entering next year’s Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards?
I’d say to definitely go for it! I think so many people in the industry underestimate themselves and what they’ve achieved. Entering awards gives you the chance to reflect on your journey, celebrate your growth and step outside your comfort zone a little.
My advice would be to be yourself and tell your story honestly. People connect with authenticity and passion, far more than perfection. You never know where one opportunity can lead, and sometimes putting yourself forward is the first step towards bigger things.
Are you thinking about entering the Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2027? If so, you can register your interest here.
