Kirsty Watson
The Owner of Qualia Skin Specialists, Huddersfield
About me
I started my journey in the hair industry in 1998, developing a deep understanding of the craft and the business behind it. I expanded into beauty and aesthetics, working in the sector since 2010, refining my expertise in advanced skincare, education, and business management. Founding Qualia Academy and Qualia Skin Specialists allowed me to combine my passion for training, professional development, and industry innovation, ensuring practitioners have access to high-quality education and support.
My Multimedia Degree, MBA, Trusteeship, and role on the CMI Board have strengthened my leadership and commercial expertise, helping me navigate the complexities of HR, business strategy, and workforce development. I have worked extensively on recruitment, retention, and marketing, ensuring professionals have the tools to succeed.
Advocacy has always been central to my work—I have actively lobbied for policy changes that support marginalised groups, ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they deserve.
Why I would like to be President and the skills I bring
Our industry is facing increasing pressures, and I know how difficult it is for practitioners to keep their businesses thriving. Rising costs, recruitment struggles, and changing consumer habits are making it harder to sustain long-term success. While I cannot directly change tax policies, I will work towards lobbying for subsidies for SMEs, ensuring fairer support through VAT, NIC reforms, and wage subsidies to ease financial strain.
Employer responsibilities, including rising minimum wage and pension contributions, are a growing challenge. I will push for government-backed support packages that give businesses financial breathing room, allowing them to sustain jobs and invest in their workforce without additional burdens. Staff shortages remain a key issue. The decline in apprenticeships and an aging workforce mean businesses struggle to find and retain skilled professionals. I will advocate for better apprenticeship schemes, career progression initiatives, and funding to support mentorship programs, helping businesses attract new talent while keeping experienced professionals engaged in the sector.
Changing consumer behaviour is another challenge, with clients stretching appointments further and opting for DIY treatments. I will work towards educational campaigns that highlight the value of professional services, while helping businesses implement client retention strategies, loyalty programs, and flexible pricing models to sustain demand.
Many businesses still struggle with online booking systems, social media marketing, and digital client engagement. I will focus on practical training programs and accessible technology solutions to ensure salons, barbershops, and practitioners can thrive in a digital world. I will work towards government incentives for sustainable supply chains to ease financial strain on businesses.
I am committed to working alongside NHBF members to push for meaningful policy shifts that create financial stability, workforce development, and business resilience. By focusing on practical solutions, lobbying for necessary support, and adapting to industry changes, businesses and practitioners secure a stronger future.