From Salon Floor to CEO – Julie Evans on Leading Rodney Wayne into the Future 

When you meet Julie Evans, CEO of Rodney Wayne, you quickly understand that her leadership isn’t driven by corporate ambition it’s rooted in a deep love for people and the hairdressing profession. Her journey began at just 14, working Saturdays in a salon. By 21 she was a salon manager, and in the years that followed, she steadily climbed the ladder, from Regional Support Manager to General Manager of Operations, then General Manager, and ultimately CEO.

“It wasn’t a title I chased,” she says. “It felt like a natural progression. Even now, the title makes me a little uncomfortable it’s the work and the people that matter.”

A People-First Mission

Rodney Wayne’s mission is simple yet powerful: to focus on people clients, consumers, and the teams who choose to be part of the brand. “In this industry, loving people is everything,” Julie explains. “Our values are embedded in everything we do—they’re visible in our training, in our development programmes, and in every salon team room.”

Staying Connected Where It Matters Most

For Julie, there’s no such thing as a “typical day.” She keeps her finger on the pulse through salon visits, conversations with clients, and constant communication across multiple platforms. “The magic happens in the salons,” she says. “Hearing a client tell me they’ve been choosing Rodney Wayne for years is humbling it’s why we do what we do.”

Leading Through Challenges

Julie has navigated the business through natural disasters, pandemics, and economic turbulence. Her leadership approach is about reassurance, guidance, and maintaining a professional, supportive environment for the teams. “We can’t control the world, but we can control how we make people feel.”

The Heart of the Franchise – Its People

Ask Julie what excites her most, and she’ll tell you it’s the people. “We’re more than a business, when things get tough, we stand together.” It’s no surprise that when seeking new franchisees or team leaders, she looks first for empathy, listening skills, and a genuine love for people. “Everything else, we can teach,” she says.

Innovation with Purpose

Rodney Wayne partners with innovative brands that are relevant, socially conscious, and ahead of the curve. But for Julie, innovation always comes back to one thing enhancing the customer experience. “We set trends, develop our teams, and communicate those stories authentically to our clients.”

Advice for Aspiring Franchisees

Julie’s advice is clear: be prepared, be committed, and do your research. “You’re about to join the best profession there is. Build a network of skilled support you can’t do it alone.”

Grounded Leadership

Her Liverpool upbringing and strong faith keep her grounded. She’s an early riser with a disciplined morning routine, committed to consistency and follow-through. “If you say you’re going to do something do it.”

Looking Ahead

Julie’s vision for the next decade is to see the hairdressing industry thrive again, with more apprentices joining the profession and growing into the next generation of hair artists. “As technology evolves, human connection will become even more valuable and our franchisees will be at the heart of delivering that experience.”

For Julie Evans, leading Rodney Wayne isn’t just about running a successful business it’s about building careers, fostering relationships, and making people feel amazing. If you share that passion for people, style, and business, perhaps your journey with Rodney Wayne is about to begin.

With a trusted brand, comprehensive support, and a thriving business model, there has never been a better time to become part of the Rodney Wayne team. Reach out to us today to find out more.