LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
+ SCHMOOZEFEST
2025
CONNECTION. Inspiration. Leadership.
The Ultimate Industry Gathering!
Join us for one of the most anticipated events on the hair industry calendar!
The AHC Leadership Summit kicks off this year with the State of the Nation Industry Insights, followed by a powerhouse panel of industry experts sharing their vision and the opportunities shaping our industry. Then settle in to hear from an inspiring keynote speaker to challenge your thinking and inspire you to ignite new ideas, leaving you motivated to elevate your business, embrace innovation, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.
Following an afternoon of powerful insights and inspiration, the evening flows seamlessly into Schmoozefest – an industry favourite networking event! Relax with drinks and canapes, connecting with likeminded professionals, industry leaders, and old friends in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. This is your chance to continue the conversations, forge valuable new relationships, and celebrate the industry we all love.
Why You Can’t Miss This:
✨ Exclusive Industry Insights – Gain firsthand knowledge from a panel of top experts and a world-class keynote speaker.
✨ Unrivaled Networking at Schmoozefest – Connect with salon owners, freelancers, educators, and suppliers at the industry’s favourite mingle event.
✨ Perfect Timing & Location – Taking place right before Hair Festival and the AHIA Creative Awards weekend, in the heart of Sydney!
Key Note Speaker Mark McCrindle
We are thrilled to announce Mark McCrindle – award-winning social researcher, best-selling author, and TEDx speaker – keynote speaker at this years event!
A globally recognised demographer and futurist, Mark is a highly sought after thought leader who coined the term Generation Alpha.
With two decades of advising some of the world’s biggest brands, his expertise in tracking social trends, workforce dynamics, and emerging megatrends makes him an excellent speaker to equip our industry with the insights needed to thrive in a changing world.
Mark will deliver a game-changing session on The Future of Work – and what it means for salon owners, educators, and industry leaders. With the hair industry facing rapid change, this session will explore:
- Changing Workforce & Client Demographics – How increasing cultural diversity, an ageing population, and shifting lifestyle trends will impact salon staffing and client expectations.
- Generational Transitions in Salons – How different leadership styles, career expectations, and learning preferences across generations affect team management, staff retention, and workplace culture.
- Industry Workforce Trends – The rise of freelance stylists, rent-a-chair models, flexible employment, and the impact of technology on how we work and do business.
- Attracting & Retaining Talent – Strategies to build loyal, engaged teams in an industry where career mobility is high and competition for top talent is fierce.
- Future-Proofing Your Business – How to adapt to industry megatrends, embrace innovation, and create a thriving, future-ready salon. insight for anyone leading a team or shaping the future of our industry.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to gain powerful strategies for staying ahead in the evolving world of hairdressing and barbering.
📅 Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00PM – 7:00 PM (Registration from 1:15 PM)
📍 Venue: Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
💳 Pricing:
🔹 AHC Member Ticket: $495 (inc. GST)
🔹 Non-Member Ticket: $595 (inc. GST)
🍽️ Includes: Light lunch, and afternoon tea with refreshments, followed by drinks and canapes.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be included in discussion on the future of our industry.
🚨 Tickets On Sale Now!
Book early to secure your spot.
Win A Luxury Stay!
Book your ticket before April 30 to be in the draw to win a night’s stay at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park including breakfast for two, valued at $500!
Book Your Ticket – Be In The Draw!
2 Entries with a booking for Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest by March 31
1 Entry with a booking for Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest between April 1-30
3 Entries with a booking for Industry Day & Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest by April 30
Imagine wrapping up a day full of learning, inspiration, and networking, with a luxurious night in the heart of Sydney on us!
Terms & Conditions
The prize is one nights accommodation at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park on either Friday 27 June or Saturday 28 June, 2025 and includes a full buffet breakfast for two people. The prize does not include transfers, event tickets, extra guests, mini bar, hotel services or expenditure. The winner will be drawn randomly from all entrants on Friday 2nd May 2025 and will be advised by phone and email. We wish you good luck!
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations & Refunds
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ticket, please review our cancellation terms below:
Before April 30 2025 – Full refund, excluding Stripe Fee
May 1 – May 31 2025 – 50% refund of the ticket price excluding Stripe Fee
After May 31 2025 – No refunds available. However, you may transfer your ticket to another attendee (see below).
Ticket Transfers
If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to another person at no additional cost. To do so, please notify us in writing at least 48 hours before the event with the new attendee’s details.
Event Changes & Cancellations
In the unlikely event that AHC Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest 2025 is postponed or cancelled, registered attendees will be offered the option to transfer their ticket to the rescheduled date or receive a full refund.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@theahc.org.au