James

James’ route into hairdressing is a story of ambition, determination and a willingness to completely change direction in pursuit of a career he knew was right for him.

After building a successful career in hotel management, James made the decision in his late twenties to enter the hairdressing industry. Beginning his training at college before continuing his education with Cheynes Hairdressing in Edinburgh, James’ natural aptitude for the craft quickly became clear.

He completed his Level 3 qualification in an exceptional three months, rapidly progressing onto the salon floor and establishing himself as a confident and highly capable hairdresser.

From the beginning, James became known for two things that continue to define him today: his expertise in all things hair and an exceptional standard of client care.

His background in hospitality brought with it an instinctive understanding of service, attention to detail and the importance of making every client feel genuinely looked after. That philosophy has gone on to influence not only the experience James provides behind the chair, but the standard of client care at the heart of PeterJames.

Driven by the same ambition that propelled his early career, James went on to co-found PeterJames, taking on the challenge of building a business while simultaneously continuing to develop his craft.

Rather than allowing the demands of business ownership to slow his progression as a hairdresser, James used them to drive it — continually investing in his education, expanding his technical knowledge and raising the standard of his work year after year.

Today, James has established himself as a highly accomplished, technically skilled and sought-after hairdresser, with expertise spanning both cutting and colour. A true all-rounder behind the chair, his approach is centred around the individual — considering face shape, hair texture, condition, lifestyle and maintenance to create hair that not only looks exceptional, but genuinely works for the person wearing it.

James also shares the PeterJames fascination with the science behind professional hairdressing. Understanding how colour works, how the condition of the hair influences what can be achieved and how professional treatments and prescribed homecare can support the longevity of a result are all fundamental to his approach behind the chair.

Always evolving

Education remains fundamental to James’ career. He continually seeks out advanced education through PeterJames’ professional partnerships and brings that knowledge back into the salon, both for his clients and the wider team.

James is currently undertaking the prestigious Wella Master Colour Expert programme, further advancing his expertise in colour science, formulation and technical colour.

His progression is testament to what has defined his career from the beginning: drive, natural ability and an uncompromising desire to keep getting better. From making a bold career change to becoming a co-founder and accomplished hairdresser, James has never followed the conventional timeline — he has created his own.

For James, standing still has never been an option. There is always more to learn, another skill to master and another way to elevate the experience and results he delivers for his clients.