Melissa Cox
Pleasanton,CA
Summary
Strategic and dynamic education leader with 30 years of experience in professional beauty, salon operations, and technical education. Proven record of leading educators, building strong salon and school partnerships, and implementing education strategies that elevate brand presence and stylist performance. Former salon owner and advanced color educator with extensive Wella ecosystem experience, multiple color certifications, and deep expertise in curriculum delivery. Known for driving executional excellence, building high-performing teams, and aligning field education with organizational goals.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Independent Hairstylist & Educator
Freelance
01.2023 - Current
- Rebuilt a strong clientele while delivering advanced color services and corrections.
- Provided structured, modern in-salon education grounded in formal teaching methodologies.
- Mentored stylists on formulation, efficiency, service delivery, and client communication.
- Designed personalized hairstyles based on client consultations and preferences.
- Executed advanced cutting, coloring, and styling techniques to achieve desired outcomes.
Middle & High School English Instructor (Part-Time)
California Schools
01.2023 - Current
- Delivered structured curriculum and classroom instruction while strengthening communication and facilitation skill sets.
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with California state standards to enhance student learning outcomes.
- Facilitated classroom discussions that encouraged critical thinking and improved student participation.
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Evaluated student performance through assessments, providing constructive feedback to foster academic growth.
- Promoted a positive classroom environment by establishing clear expectations and fostering mutual respect among students.
Salon Owner & Lead Educator
Independent Business
01.2013 - 10.2021
- Owned and operated a successful salon, directing all business, education, and operational functions.
- Established a robust education culture, including onboarding programs and continuous training.
- Managed budgeting, service quality standards, staff development, and overall salon performance.
- Sold business to pursue degree completion and international travel.
- Managed daily operations, ensuring smooth workflow and client satisfaction.
- Developed marketing strategies to attract new clientele and retain existing customers.
In-Salon Educator
Independent Salons
01.2003 - 03.2020
- Delivered technical color education, trend-based workshops, and hands-on training.
- Customized education experiences to align with stylist readiness and salon performance goals.
- Developed and delivered engaging training programs for salon professionals on advanced techniques and industry trends.
- Collaborated with salon management to enhance service offerings and improve client satisfaction through educational initiatives.
Framesi Certified Educator
Framesi USA
01.1999 - 01.2003
- Certified educator providing regional education on color theory, advanced techniques, and trend collections.
Education
English Teaching Credential - Completed Coursework
California State University East Bay
05-2025
Bachelor of Arts - Humanities
Sierra Nevada University
Incline Village, NV05-2021
Skills
- Team Leadership & Field Management
- Regional Education Strategy & Execution
- Salon & School Partnership Development
- Technical Excellence in Color & Correction
- Training Program Design & Facilitation
- Cross-Functional Collaboration (Sales, Marketing, Education)
- Public Speaking, Workshops & Large-Group Facilitation
- Empathetic, supportive, and structured leadership style
- Strong collaborator with ability to connect educators, salons, and internal teams
- Deep understanding of color theory, technical training, and Wella education frameworks
Certification
- Wella Trend Vision Participant (2005)
- Color Freedom Certification (2006)
- Color Corrections Certification (2006)
- Colors of the World Certification
- Colors of the World Advanced Seminar Certification
- Framesi Certified Educator (1999)
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Independent Hairstylist & Educator
Freelance
01.2023 - Current
Middle & High School English Instructor (Part-Time)
California Schools
01.2023 - Current
Salon Owner & Lead Educator
Independent Business
01.2013 - 10.2021
In-Salon Educator
Independent Salons
01.2003 - 03.2020
Framesi Certified Educator
Framesi USA
01.1999 - 01.2003
English Teaching Credential - Completed Coursework
California State University East Bay
Bachelor of Arts - Humanities
Sierra Nevada University