
Richard Marshall
The Owner of Pall Mall Barbers, London
About me
I am the Founder and CEO of Pall Mall Barbers, a multi award-winning international British brand with over 129 years of heritage. From humble beginnings, I’ve grown the business into a global company with flagship locations in London and on 5th Avenue, New York. We’ve proudly served hundreds of thousands of clients and trained countless barbers through our business and academy.
I’ve been a proud NHBF member for many years and have served on the Board for the past year. I also work closely with the UK Government as a member of the Small Business Growth Council, advising at 10 Downing Street and representing 5.6 million small businesses alongside ministers and policy leaders.
My passion is empowering our industry to build thriving, sustainable businesses through leadership, education, innovation, and community.
Why I would like to be President and the skills I bring
I’m standing for NHBF President to give back to the industry that changed my life. I was expelled from school at 15 and couldn’t read or write properly well into my 40s. At 16, I joined a Youth Training Scheme and won my first NHBF trophy—and everything changed. Hairdressing gave me purpose, confidence, and a career. It’s now my honour to give back to the community that shaped me.
As President, I will focus on three core pillars:
- Support & Training – Expanding access to world-class education and mentoring for business owners, apprentices, and rising talent.
- Representation & Policy – Ensuring our industry’s voice is heard loud and clear at the highest levels of government.
- Growth & Innovation – Helping NHBF members adapt, thrive, and lead in an ever-evolving world.
With nearly four decades of experience growing a multi-location international brand, developing product lines, training teams, and speaking at global and government events—including hosting royals, lords, and ministers—I bring practical wisdom and proven leadership.
I’ve built strong relationships with policymakers and was personally recognized by the Prime Minister as a champion for small business.
But most importantly—I care deeply about the people behind the chairs. I know the journey because I’ve lived it. I will lead with integrity, listen with purpose, and serve with action to ensure the NHBF continues to inspire, protect, and elevate our industry.