International Women's Day: Atherton Cox

Q&A with Lisa Atherton, director and owner of Atherton Cox.

Tell us about your career journey so far.

I finished school in 1984. Back then, the requirement in the East End of London was ‘get a job’.

I’d always wanted to be a hairdresser. My mum before having my sister and I was a hairdresser, and my father a barber - so maybe its in the blood! In those times hairdressers were poorly paid so thanks to my mum, who has always been a massive inspiration in my life, advised me to seek my career in West London which thankfully steered me to Marylebone Village. 

After 40 years in hairdressing, I’ve never looked back. With my Co-director Paul Cox we make a well-balanced union. We have both worked at our salon for over 30 years and took the reins of the existing salon 24 years ago. Taking into consideration several recessions and the wonderful Covid, we are still here to tell the tale. We have had many achievements over the years but for us, we love all the young people that have passed through our training programs and have always expressed their appreciation. That makes us very proud.

Which women have inspired you most throughout your life? 

My daughter has been such an inspiration to me. She is currently 21 just finishing University. It's wonderful that as a woman you raise a child into adulthood whilst also having a fulfilling fantastic career. She is not going to be a hairdresser, but she did work in the salon during the holidays. Over the years she gained many fantastic people skills through our wonderful team and our loyal clientele. All have known her since she was born. Her experiences have made her the woman she is today with the confidence to go out into the world.

Based on your own experience, what advice would you have for women wanting to get into your industry, or start a business of their own?

My advice has always been never to be afraid of a challenge.

What do you love most about being positioned in Marylebone Village?

Marylebone Village is to be thanked for the eclectic well-rounded place to have a business.