Advisory Council Voting is Now Open

John Cutrone, began his industry journey at the age of 23 after seeing his immigrant father struggle to provide early on due to a lack of mentorship. His upbringing in a financially strained household fueled his ambition to uplift the industry and empower salon owners who lacked respect as business professionals. Joining Professional Salon Concepts, he realized the transformative power of education in shaping the industry’s future. Within three years, John became a million-dollar sales consultant, ascending to Director of Sales at year five. At Eufora International, he led the North American sales division, inspired to carry on the mission and legacy of the late Don Bewley. In 2021, John joined Salon Service Group, steering two mergers and leading a 500-employee, 150-salesperson, 65-store organization. Today, as VP of Sales and Education at Kevin.Murphy, John’s passion for manufacturing, brand building, and salon growth continues to drive innovation and success.

Candy Gebhart has been in the beauty industry for 20+ years both growing up in her family businesses as well as professional manufacturers’ roles.  She is currently the General Manager of Redken and has held executive positions on brands such as, Pureology, Matrix, L’Oreal Professionnel, Joico, and Wella. A veteran in the industry, Candy Gebhart brings her passion and dedication in every role.

With a personal mission to help small business owners, Candy Gebhart is dedicated to helping salon professionals find the next level of success.  Redken allows her to have a large reach and impact to stylists across the country. And to make an even more impactful contribution to the industry, Candy has recently joined the PBA as a Manufacturer Advisory Council, bringing fresh ideas and a clear vision for our industry.

*Candy is an incumbent AC member*

Ian Murphy, BosleyMD President, is a leader of the global authority on thinning hair—a brand approved by doctors and endorsed by stylists. His career spans three decades, co-creating over 100 products alongside hairdressers at Redken UK, Redken 5th Ave NYC, Wella, and Bio Ionic. An advocate for the hairdressing community, Ian pioneered initiatives like the “Style Awards,” uniting emerging talents with industry luminaries such as Sonya Dove and the late Angus Mitchell. Ian dedicates his time to mentoring students at Leicester Castle UK Business School, while also playing a pivotal role in the Jeff Hancher Leadership team, in Pittsburgh, PA. Ian’s current mission is to delve into the psyche of stylists regarding their perceptions of hairdressing, creativity, and business. By understanding their needs, he aims to facilitate alignment among Manufacturers & Distributors providing comprehensive support, training, and motivation, ensuring the continued prosperity of the professional beauty industry.

Giovanni Picone is highly regarded in the global professional beauty sector & known as the “behind the scenes guy”. A savvy, commercial driven leader has warranted him an international network by always providing his experience and value first and foremost. His 25 years of multi-national experience initiated with P&G, leading into Revlon Professional, & eventually earning him an equity position as Vice President of Z.One Concept. His current role as Executive Vice President at Alfaparf Group leverages this expertise in 3rd party manufacturing & product development for many global leading brands. Sales management, market assessments, problem resolution, marketing and pricing strategies are also in his repertoire of offerings. Giovanni’s ability to secure communication with top business decision makers include Founders, CEOs, Board of Directors, Product Development & Marketing teams is insurmountable. The experience as a former hairdresser, platform artist, business consultant and brand creator all provide him a 360 degree understanding of beauty at all levels. His strongest talents are in general strategy, opening new markets, and bridging lab formulations and information into marketing firms.

A member of PBA since 2007, Zach’s experience in the professional beauty industry spans nearly 17 years working across several iconic brands. He started his career at Wella Professionals leading sales organizations and working on market strategy. Zach joined Bumble and bumble in 2014 as the VP of Sales and later become the Global GM, leading business strategy and global operations for 4 years. He became the CEO of the science-backed prestige haircare brand Living Proof in 2019 and continues to lead the business today. Zach has served as a volunteer on the PBA Manufacturer’s Advisory Council since 2018 and is currently chairperson of the group. He also serves on the PBA’s Board of Directors, representing the perspective of the professional manufacturer and brand community. Zach has a strong passion for the industry and giving back, and is seeking a third and final term on the Manufacturer’s Advisory Council.

*Zach is an incumbent AC member*