Meet the team

Appointed as chief executive in 2023 after serving as director of quality and standards since 2017. Leads corporate decision-making, directs workforce and resources toward strategic goals, and serves as the primary liaison between the NHBF board and operations. Governed by the NHBF rules and governance framework.

As the beating heart of the organisation, Caroline brings passion and drive to support the sector and champion professional excellence and recognition. A proud former hairdresser, therapist, business owner, lecturer and training and education provider with extensive management and leadership experience.

Caroline bridges industry and government to support NHBF Member businesses and the wider sector, collaborating with professional bodies, agencies, and ministers on standards, training, funding, and regulations. An ambassador, advocate and champion of the sector driving change through example while supporting NHBF Members to operate safely, legally, and profitably. She also serves as chairperson, advisor, and board member across key sector groups.

With over 20 years of experience in audit, accountancy, and business management across diverse industries, Sarah Pigden oversees all day-to-day operational finance and strategic financial planning for the NHBF.

Her expertise ensures sound fiscal management that supports our mission to serve the hair and beauty sector. Working closely with the executive team and board of directors, Sarah translates complex financial data into actionable insights that inform the NHBF’s strategic direction and resource allocation, ultimately strengthening our ability to support our Members across the sector.

With over 30 years of experience in the hairdressing industry and education sector, Cathy's previous role over a 20+ year period with a well-known training provider and salon franchise helped transform the business to achieve consistent Ofsted grade 1 status in training and education.

During this time, she worked closely with central government as the Vice Chair of the Hair and Beauty route panel and served as a National Apprenticeship Ambassador promoting apprenticeships on behalf of the industry.

Cathy brings this knowledge and practical insight to the NHBF to support our Members. She also provides vital support to the Quality Standards and Education Advisory board, facilitating collaboration between members and organisational leadership.

Leading our friendly and knowledgeable membership team for over 30 years, Tina oversees operations that respond to more than 20,000 member inquiries annually. Her extensive experience ensures Members receive expert guidance and support while maintaining the high service standards that have become the hallmark of our organization.

Tina's leadership fosters strong relationships with Members across the hair and beauty sector, helping them access the resources and assistance they need to thrive.

She also provides vital support to the Membership and Community Advisory Board, facilitating collaboration between members and our organisational leadership.

Sam is an experienced public affairs and policy professional with more than a decade of experience driving change across the public, emergency service, and charity sectors.

Working with the Policy & Public Affairs Advisory Board, Sam develops and implements advocacy strategies on behalf of NHBF Members. This work places the views and experience at the heart of national policy process whilst giving individual Members the opportunity to meet and engage with local politicians.

Contact: sam.silver@nhbf.co.uk

With over 25 years of experience spanning both the public and private sectors, Jackie Holian brings a wealth of expertise to the hair, barbering, beauty, and aesthetic industries. Her deep sector knowledge, combined with her proficiency in all aspects of business operations, has positioned her as a key driver of commercial strategy at the NHBF.

Throughout her career, Jackie has been instrumental in designing and delivering high-impact training initiatives and award-winning learning resources, shaping industry education and professional development. She plays a pivotal role in shaping strategic partnerships, ensuring that NHBF collaborates with key stakeholders to drive sector growth and deliver meaningful benefits to its Members.

Jackie’s leadership ensures that NHBF Members gain access to innovative solutions, enhanced services, and new business opportunities that support their long-term success. She also plays a crucial role in Marketing, Communications, and PR, supporting the Advisory Board in fostering collaboration between Members and organisational leadership. Her ability to align industry trends, business growth, and professional support makes her an invaluable asset in strengthening the NHBF’s influence, shaping partnerships, and expanding its reach across the sectors it represents.