Nicky Clarke

Nicky Clarke OBE is one of Britain’s most recognisable hairdressers, entrepreneurs and beauty industry pioneers. Renowned for transforming hairdressing into a mainstream lifestyle and fashion business, he has spent decades shaping trends, building successful brands and working with some of the world’s most influential figures. From award-winning salon work to product innovation and television appearances, Nicky has consistently remained at the forefront of the industry. His ability to combine creativity, commercial success and personal resilience makes him an engaging and inspirational keynote speaker who shares valuable insights on entrepreneurship, branding, innovation and achieving excellence in highly competitive industries.

Nicky’s career began at the House of Leonard, where he developed the technical foundations that would shape his future success. He later joined John Frieda, where his talent quickly gained attention throughout the fashion and beauty world. At just 18 years old, he was featured in a six page spread in Vogue magazine, marking him out as one of the industry’s rising stars. His reputation continued to grow and he won the prestigious Session Hairdresser of the Year Award twice before opening his own salon in Mayfair, London. The salon became one of the most celebrated destinations in British hairdressing. Alongside this success, he launched the Hairomatherapy product line, followed by his highly successful range of electric styling products and later the Nicky Clarke Hairwise collection in Tesco. His entrepreneurial journey continued with the launch of the AirStyle Pro Dryer in the United States, demonstrating his enduring ability to innovate and adapt to changing consumer markets.

Throughout his career, Nicky has received numerous accolades recognising both his creative excellence and industry influence. He was named London Hairdresser of the Year on multiple occasions and received the British Fellowship of the Year Award as well as the prestigious British Hairdresser of the Year title. His work reached a mass audience through television, most notably as resident hairdresser for Richard and Judy on ‘This Morning’, where he became a familiar face to millions of viewers. His contribution to British business and hairdressing was further recognised when he was awarded an OBE. He also received the Outstanding Contribution to London Style Award and was recognised by Marie Curie Magazine for leading the first hair care company to introduce 100 per cent plastic free packaging.

Nicky has also shared his expertise through publishing, authoring the book ‘Hairpower’, which explores confidence, image and personal success. As the founder of multiple successful brands and businesses, he brings first hand experience of leadership, innovation, sustainability and long term brand building. His keynote presentations combine inspiring personal stories with practical business lessons drawn from decades at the highest level of fashion, retail and media. Audiences benefit from his unique perspective on building a personal brand, adapting to industry change and maintaining relevance over time. These qualities make Nicky a highly sought after keynote speaker for corporate events, leadership conferences, entrepreneurial forums and industry gatherings.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Nicky Clarke’s remarkable career:

  • 2024 – Launched his AirStyle Pro Dryer in the U.S
  • 2018 – Recognised by Marie Curie Magazine for being the first hair care company to have 100% plastic-free packaging
  • 2015 – Launched the Nicky Clarke Hairwise collection in Tesco
  • 2014 – Won the Outstanding Contribution to London Style Award at the London Lifestyle Awards
  • 2008 – Awarded OBE by HRH
  • 2000 – Published his book Hairpower
  • 1998 – Resident hairdresser for Richard and Judy on This Morning
  • 1997 – Launched his Nicky Clarke electric styling products
  • 1995 – London Hairdresser of the Year
  • 1994 – London Hairdresser of the Year
  • 1994 – British Fellowship of the Year