Alex's impressive career is one of personal and professional adventure ultimately garnering him the title of one of the Top 50 Hairstylists, in a book by Rick Morton.
Beginning in London, England, he worked for the prestigious Vidal Sassoon Salons, developing a busy clientele, and building relationships with London fashion and press photographers. Relocating to Chicago in 1986, he ascended rank to Artistic Director, leading an award-winning team at Sassoon’s, establishing Chicago as one of the premier salons in the global Sassoon empire.
In 1992, TRIO Salon opened its doors. “What a happening place! We were so busy we had to turn away Steven Tyler from Aerosmith, it was a crazy time!” remembers Alex. During a twenty-eight-year growth, TRIO opened two more locations, quadrupled its size in staff and started its own professional product line! TRIO Salons reputation grew to be one of the best in Chicago.
In 2020, TRIO merged with a prominent salon located on Chicago’s fashionable Oak Street and Alex made the transition to focus his career on education and coaching.
Accomplishments
Award-winning stylist and salon owner.
Extensive celebrity clientele.
Featured in top fashion magazines.
Founder of successful salon chain.
Guest appearances on TV shows.
Lead stylist at renowned fashion events.
Mentor and educator in the industry.
Expert in cutting-edge hairstyling techniques.
Collaborations with major beauty brands.
Influencer with a large online following.
Work
Background
1990-92: Alex joined Heidi’s Salons as their National Director of Education. While maintaining a formidable client base, Ioannou travelled the country setting up training programs and identifying creative leadership for the 40-salon strong company.
1992-Present: TRIO Salon opened its doors. “We were so busy we had to turn away Steven Tyler from Aerosmith, it was a crazy time!” remembers Alex. During a twenty-eight year growth, TRIO opened two more locations, quadrupled its size in staff and started its own professional product line! Participating in the world renowned International Alternative Hair Show two years in a row and boasting numerous NAHA nominees and winners!
2021-23: Ever self-reinventing, Ioannou took on the role of Managing Director at Ooh la la, Salon & Wellness located in Ocean Reef, Key Largo, Florida. Read more in the Success Story page.
Alex Ioannou, hair cutting demonstration on stage in Chicago.
Having presented his knowledge and expertise in front of large and small groups across the country and for numerous product companies, Ioannou has “an abundance of opportunities to share” in salon education, coaching, and team development “Being on stage in front of hundreds of people is inspiring, as valuable information can be shared and exchanged.” explains Alex. “However, working one-on-one or with a smaller group is just as beneficial, promoting growth for the entire team as well as the individual.”
His demonstrations and custom curriculums are about technique, shape, team building, culture development, social media, and service/retail growth; ultimately teaching the Stylist to sell themselves. “Client growth and retention through skill and technical understanding allow confidence and self-promotion.” Through Education and Coaching, Alex will help develop the individual into a Master Stylist with an ownership mentality. “My experience as an owner provides a vision of what and how successful a Stylist could be.”
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