4 minute read
Lessons Learned By Linda Woodhead
The Australian hairdressing industry has suffered a massive loss with the passing of hairdressing legend and TONI&GUY Australia CEO, Dennis Langford. Dennis was a friend, a mentor, an educator and a hair fashion trailblazer to so many, but for those who knew him well, his most important role was that of a husband to his wife Sara and father to his children.
I am writing this as I fly into Sydney thinking for a fleeting moment about calling him to catch up for a coffee, as I would usually do, and then remembering in that same split second that I am travelling to attend a very special industry memorial, for my dear friend. It all feels so surreal.
On the 31st January, the sad news was shared online by Toni&Guy Australia, also saying, “Dennis’ long-standing dedication and passion for hairdressing has revolutionised the Australian hairdressing community. We know we are not alone in saying that Dennis has touched the lives of many, both near and far.”
Dennis Langford led Toni&Guy Australia to be at the forefront of business, education and fashion since 1995. He was a celebrated industry leader, icon and an exceptionally kind and thoughtful man. Always acting with integrity and respect, Dennis and T&G are responsible for educating and training some of the most talented hairdressers here, as well as overseas. Dennis was renowned globally for his work on stage, presenting countless creative, entertaining and educational shows and seminars.
Dennis with his wife - Sara Langford
He started his career in New Zealand as a stylist for Rodney Wayne and whilst doing promotional work in Japan the opportunity came for Dennis to join the TONI&GUY team in London. Initially joining the team as a stylist Dennis soon progressed to Art Director. He was then assigned to manage the TONI&GUY London Academy. The next stages saw Dennis in the role as promotional director for TIGI, the group’s product arm, which saw him in the role of trainer for both TONI&GUY staff and TIGI support salons worldwide.
It was during this time that he also acted as Education Director. Dennis was responsible for Management Education in TONI&GUY salons and training for the international TONI&GUY Artistic Team. 1995 saw Dennis establish TONI&GUY in Sydney, Australia. He spent months travelling around the country to select the best locations and staff for the salons and has since established more than 35 salons throughout the country. Amongst the outpouring of support and tributes renowned industry icon Anthony Mascolo, said: “It was with great sadness that myself and Pat learnt of the passing of Dennis Langford. Many condolences to his personal family and all of his Toni&Guy family. He is fondly remembered in our thoughts.”
The Australian Hairdressing Council were inundated with stories of how Dennis influenced hairdressers worldwide described by one as “an absolute giant of a man, Dennis built a platform for so many of us who walked the road that he so powerfully lit”.
With Sandy Chong
Our thoughts and prayers go to his beautiful wife Sara and his family and in the words of his favourite poet…Dr Suess...
With Clive Allwright and Dario Cotroneo
LESSONS TO LIVE BY... Dennis Langford
LESSON 1 - Maintain a balance of courage & Compassion You will need both to be an effective leader.
LESSON 2 - Volunteer for everything. You never know what comes of these opportunities
LESSON 3 - You are designed for accomplishment, engineered for success and endowed with the seeds of greatness.
LESSON 4 - Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you are right.
LESSON 5 - You will always be judged by the quality of your actions and the integrity of your intent.
With Linda Woodhead
