James Anthony Gates
Toorak,Australia
Summary
Hair Stylist and former Salon Owner with 7 years of experience running my own salon, managing a team, and working hands-on behind the chair. I’ve built a strong, loyal client base and have experience in personalised cutting, styling, colour, hair extensions, and event and wedding styling. I also have experience managing day-to-day salon operations and supporting a successful team environment. I’m now looking for an international opportunity where I can bring my experience, creativity, leadership skills and passion for hairdressing to a new team.
Available for relocation January 2026
Overview
2
2
years of post-secondary education
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner Operator Director
Blake & Co Hairdressing
01.2019 - 01.2026
- Owned and operated Blake & Co Hairdressing, managing staffing, marketing, finances and overall client experience.
- Managed daily operations, coordinating appointments, stock control, and team performance to ensure seamless client experiences.
- Delivered cutting, colour and chemical services, cultivating a loyal client base through personalized experiences.
Freelance Hair Stylist | Self-Employed Sole Trader
James Anthony Hair
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Oversaw client bookings and financial management for sole-trader hairdressing business.
- Provided cutting, color and chemical services to a growing private client base. Specialized in wedding and event styling.
- Managed invoicing and payment processes for services rendered.
Colourist and Master Stylist
Essentials Toni & Guy
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Trained staff in colour and cutting techniques, strengthening overall education programme.
- Directed photo shoots and styled weddings and events
Senior Stylist
Cocoblaq Salon
01.2009 - 01.2014
- Managed daily salon operations, overseeing staff rosters, appointments, and maintaining service standards to ensure client satisfaction.
- Performed cutting, colouring, and chemical services for diverse clientele, enhancing customer experience and satisfaction.
- Developed loyal clientele while training junior staff to uphold salon standards and improve service quality.
Junior Stylist
Mode Hair
01.2005 - 01.2009
- Shampooed hair for clients, ensuring a relaxing experience, conditioning, treatments, blow-drying, styling and chemical straightening.
- Advised clients on appropriate hair-care products for their needs. and maintained salon hygiene standards.
- Collaborated with clients to determine hairstyle preferences and options.
- Assisted senior stylists in performing haircuts and color treatments.
- Maintained a clean and organized workstation throughout the day.
Education
Advance Creative Cutting -
Toni & Guy Academy
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 04.2016 - 04.2016
Hairdressing Apprenticeship -
Francapelli Academy
01.2006 - 01.2008
Year 10 -
Pakenham Secondary College
Skills
- Client consultation techniques
- Client relationship management
- Client service focus
- Good time management
- Deadline oriented
- Calm under pressure
- Clear communicator
- Relationship building
- Practical problem-solver
- Works well independently or as part of a team
- Entrepreneurial mindset
- Hair Extensions specialist
Timeline
Owner Operator Director
Blake & Co Hairdressing
01.2019 - 01.2026
Freelance Hair Stylist | Self-Employed Sole Trader
James Anthony Hair
01.2017 - 01.2019
Advance Creative Cutting -
Toni & Guy Academy
04.2016 - 04.2016
Colourist and Master Stylist
Essentials Toni & Guy
01.2015 - 01.2017
Senior Stylist
Cocoblaq Salon
01.2009 - 01.2014
Hairdressing Apprenticeship -
Francapelli Academy
01.2006 - 01.2008
Junior Stylist
Mode Hair
01.2005 - 01.2009
Year 10 -
Pakenham Secondary College