Howard Street

Leigh first came to RRI on work experience back in 1996, and quickly found herself hooked. She qualified in 1998, spent five years perfecting her craft and training as a teacher in our Buchanan Street salon, then opened the Academy in 2003. Now an influential figure in the UK hair industry, this year Leigh helped to develop the new SVQ Hairdressing qualifications for the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority. As a hairdresser, Leigh is exceptional at colouring hair and tackling complex, creative cuts. It’s her belief that changing the colour or style of a person’s hair can genuinely bring out a different side of their personality.

Combining her two roles, Leigh says, gives her best of both worlds: training the next generation of top stylists, while still being able to work directly with clients. She loves seeing students graduate to ‘finishing school’, and watching everything she’s taught them click into place. She calls those the ‘lightbulb moments’. Her philosophy for success is clear: strive for perfection, don’t make excuses, know your strengths (and weaknesses), accept criticism, have confidence and – most of all – be creative.

Nikki joined RRI in 1998, at the tender age of 15. From that role as Saturday girl in the Royal Exchange Square salon, she went on to qualify as a stylist, do our teacher training programme (while still working with clients) and achieve her NVQ Level 3. Nikki taught her first course at the Academy in 2003. Since then, she has achieved her Schwarzkopf Master Colourist Degree and Academy Assessor qualification, and now teaches full-time at the Academy. Nikki knows first-hand that hairdressing can offer a really diverse and fast-paced career, and tries to instill that in her students, who she loves to see progressing week-on-week. Although she’ll always be extremely passionate about training, Nikki still gets a real buzz from working hands-on, colouring, cutting and styling her clients’ hair (she especially likes doing hair-ups for special occasions).

Meet Alana, an experienced salon stylist who has been part of the Howard Street Salon Team since 2021. Known for her passion for creating a positive and uplifting atmosphere, Alana takes pride in making clients feel fabulous about their hair, bringing joy and smiles to their faces. Her warm and welcoming personality, coupled with her techniques in creative colours such as balayage and highlights, has made her a favourite among clients seeking an unforgettable salon experience.

Beyond the salon, Alana actively assists in the RRI Artistic Team behind the scenes, contributing to the preparation of models for prestigious events like the British Hairdressing Awards. Her dedication to her craft took her to Italy for a two-week work exchange programme, where she immersed herself in the local hairstyling culture and shared her skills with professionals, paving the way for future international collaborations.

Alana's passion for blowouts, especially bouncy blowdry styles and creamy blondes, showcases her attention to detail and commitment to excellence. With a wealth of creativity and a positive spirit, Alana ensures every client leaves not just satisfied, but truly fabulous.

Fabrizio began his journey in July 2022 as an apprentice within our Howard Street Salon, and after two years of dedicated training, qualifying in October 2024. His passion lives through his love for shaggy, textured haircuts with expert layering. His love for colours lies within the versatility of highlights to bring out the best in every client's hair.

As a quiet but attentive person, Fabrizio makes it a priority to understand and meet each client's needs from the moment they sit in the chair. He takes great pride in his image and the care he puts into every consultation, ensuring a personalised experience for every individual who walks through the door.

Fabrizio's perfectionist nature drives him to meticulously craft each look, and make sure his clients leave the salon feeling thrilled with their hair.

With a happy, chatty, and often funny personality, Miya, brings a lot of warmth and energy to the Howard Street Salon Team. She began her journey as a Modern Apprentice in August 2022, learning from her talented colleagues. Then just two years later in October 2024, she was proud to be qualifying as a Stylist.

Her favourite techniques include balayage and working with bright, bold colours that make hair truly stand out but will turn her hand at any challenge to show off her abilities. Outside of the salon, you'll likely find her in the cinema, whether it's a spontaneous movie choice or one she's been eagerly waiting for.

And when you book your appointment, don't forget to show her pictures of your pets - she's a huge animal lover!

Like Training Director Leigh, Jamie first came to RRI on a week’s work experience. After just a few days, Jamie had fallen in love with the industry and decided to train. After qualifying, she worked as a stylist for two years before taking maternity leave when her son was born. When she came back (and we’re glad she did), Jamie opted for a role as a receptionist and has never looked back. Now she heads up the entire reception team here at the Academy, and has progressed to being involved with back office projects. Even after 19 years in the company she still loves seeing students blossom into fully-fledged stylists.

Elidah joined the team as our Front of House in August 2024 and everything fell into place from the moment she walked through the door. With her cheery and bubbly personality, she strives to create a welcoming environment where every client feels comfortable and valued.

Elidah is incredibly attentive to every client's needs, ensuring they have the best experience possible. There's nothing more rewarding for her than seeing a client's smile after a big transformation. Elidah loves to be the first and the last person to our clients as she gets to see how happy people are after they visit the salon.

Robbie started his journey with Rainbow Room International through SixthSense Training's Digital Marketing apprenticeship program in March 2017, quickly completing this by December of the same year. His passion for staying active and engaged has made him a dynamic member of the RRI Family. Robbie is always on the move whether he's within our Howard Street Salon or travelling to the other Rainbow Room International Salons to share his expertise.

While working full-time, Robbie pursued and completed his Bachelor's Degree in Business & Marketing, demonstrating his commitment to personal and professional growth. His dedication has made him an integral part of the Howard Street Team and the entire company.

Robbie is also heavily involved in the organising and running major events such as styling the stars backstage at TRNSMT and the Scottish BAFTA's. Additionally, he plays a crucial role in helping some of our incredible award-winning stylists shine their brightest in their competitive entries, contributing to their success with his knowledge.