James

Senior Barber

Shop Manager & Hair System Specialist

James is the shop manager here at Upgraded Barbers and the proud owner of The Upgraded Lounge – Hair Systems. 

As one of the original team members from back in the Red Barbers days, he’s seen it all and helped shape the shop into what it is today.

With a real passion for restoring confidence through bespoke hair systems, James combines technical know-how with a personal, tailored approach. He’s a calm, steady presence in the shop and always up for a good chat.

James is married to Ally who also works here and is a hands on dad to their three kids. Family time is top of his list, closely followed by dining out at fancy restaurants… the posher the better!

Adam

Senior Barber

Adam joined Upgraded Barbers in August 2019 and has been delivering top-notch trims ever since. With experience in the industry since 2017, he’s known for his clean fades, sharp styles, and easy-going approach that keeps clients coming back.

A big traveller and even bigger football fan, Adam’s knowledge of the game is seriously impressive—customers love to quiz him while getting their hair done (spoiler: he usually knows the answer). When he’s not at the shop, he’s likely planning his next adventure or enjoying a well-earned pint at the pub.

Hayley

Senior Barber

Hayley started her barbering journey in 2016, building on a foundation in hairdressing that began at the age of 21. With nearly 9 years of experience behind the chair, she brings a mix of skill, precision, and a relaxed, friendly vibe that makes every client feel at ease.

She’s known for her attention to detail, great conversation, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who sits in her chair.

Away from the shop, Hayley’s a proud mum to her 8 year old son Ronnie, a devoted Manchester United fan, and a firm believer that nothing beats a good Sunday roast unless it’s a Chinese takeaway. You’ll often find her unwinding at the pub with a well-earned pint… followed by a double snakebite and black, of course.

Kias

Senior Barber

At 27, Kias already has 12 years of barbering experience under his belt—starting at just 15 and never looking back. He’s been part of the Upgraded family for around 6 years all together, and has built a solid reputation for clean cuts, good chat, and sharp style.

Known for his love of clothes, trainers, and an ever-expanding fragrance collection, Kias is basically a walking fashion mag. When he's not in the shop, you’ll likely find him booking his next holiday or watching boxing; his go-to sport of choice.

Between customer booking slots, he might be found chilling in the shop but if he ever looks lost, please kindly guide him back to the chair before he starts giving random haircuts just to stay busy!

A top barber with a great sense of humour and style to match, Kias brings good energy to the team and a fresh fade every time.

Tara

Senior Barber

With 17 years of hairdressing experience, Tara knows her way around a pair of scissors. 

She joined the Red Barbers crew full-time back in 2014, making her one of the longest-standing members of the Upgraded family. These days, she works part-time while raising her three little ones—but don’t worry, she won’t keep you waiting long. She’ll be back on the floor before you know it!

Tara loves the buzz of salon life, the energy of the shop, and the banter with both the team and clients. If you’re after a proper chat and a proper haircut, she’s your girl.

Friday evenings usually end with a well-earned glass of Prosecco—and when she's around, there's always plenty of laughs.

Tom

Junior Barber

At just 18, Tom is the newest member of the Upgraded team and already making moves. His journey into barbering started during lockdown, when he picked up the clippers to cut his own hair and it turns out, he had a bit of a knack for it. Friends and family quickly started lining up for trims, and before long, he was using himself as a model to try out new techniques and sharpen his skills.

Outside the shop, Tom’s all about sport - he’s into football and trains in Muay Thai. Think of him as the Jean-Claude Van Damme of barbering… if Van Damme swapped the spinning kicks for scissors and fades.

Now starting his professional career at Upgraded, Tom’s eager to keep learning, improving, and making a name for himself in the industry.

Ally

Senior Barber & Women’s Hair Specialist

Ally’s been in the game for 24 years, and trust us - she’s seen it all, cut it all, and perfected it all. A true all-rounder, she’s not only a top barber but also a women’s hair specialist, bringing style and precision to every client who sits in her chair.

When she’s not running the show (and keeping James in line), Ally’s a busy mum of three, shoe connoisseur (with a modest collection of 100 pairs… recently reduced to make space for another puppy), and a self-declared cake addict. In fact, she once baked herself a birthday cake - just because. No birthday. Just cake. Respect.

Ally can’t be messed with - but she can be bribed with a decent slice of Victoria sponge. With her sharp eye for detail, years of experience, and quick wit, she’s a key part of the Upgraded vibe.