Hair and Make-up Artist

Next plc; Leicester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in Leicester is seeking a talented Hair & Make-Up Artist for its in-house photo studio. The artist will play a crucial role in executing creative visions with high-quality hair and make-up for both menswear and womenswear shoots. With a focus on collaboration and innovative ideas, this position offers a fantastic opportunity to work in a fast-paced, creative environment. Applicants must have at least 3 years of industry experience, strong technical skills, and a compelling portfolio to showcase their work.

Benefits

25% off most NEXT products

Company performance based bonus

Sharesave scheme

On-site Nursery

Gym memberships

Access to digital GP services

Qualifications

• Strong technical knowledge of industry-standard products.
• Experience in both e-commerce and editorial shoots.
• Proactive and innovative, with a strong portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality hair and make-up consistent with brand direction.
• Collaborate with stylists and photographers for cohesive output.
• Research trends to bring fresh ideas to shoots.

Skills

Technical knowledge of make-up application

Interpersonal and communication skills

Organisational skills

Ability to create complementary looks

Proactiveness

Education

At least 3 years’ experience in a commercial or editorial role

Tools

MAC OS

G Suite

Job description

About the role

At NEXT we’re looking for a talented and proactive Hair & Make‑Up Artist to join our in‑house Photo Studio team at our Head Office in Leicestershire. You’ll play a vital role in bringing our creative vision to life through flawless hair and make‑up that complements our styling, photography, and brand identity. This is a fast‑paced, hands‑on role covering both menswear and womenswear shoots, working closely with stylists, photographers and the Creative Leads to deliver consistent, high‑quality results. It’s a fantastic opportunity for someone with excellent technical skills and a passion for fashion and beauty, looking to further their career in a dynamic, creative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality hair and make‑up in line with Next’s brand and creative direction.
• Be the lead artist across one or multiple studio sets, responsible for the complete hair and make‑up look.
• Research and stay informed on fashion, beauty, social media, and cultural trends to bring fresh ideas to shoots.
• Work collaboratively with stylists, photographers, and freelance talent to ensure cohesive visual output.
• Create mood boards and briefs to reference current trends by model, season, product category, and campaign style.
• Understand model requirements and apply appropriate treatments while ensuring consistency with brand identity.
• Prepare, maintain, and manage all necessary equipment, products, and stock for efficient on‑set performance.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organisation of hair and make‑up stations and studio space.
• Support the smooth running of menswear and womenswear shoots by being present, proactive, and reactive to creative needs.
• Communicate regularly with Senior team members to align on direction, feedback, and improvements.
• Take initiative to suggest creative improvements, processes, or approaches to elevate content.
• Follow studio style guides and production briefs with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Be flexible and available to work at other Next studios, external studios, or on‑location shoots when required.

About you

• Strong technical knowledge of make‑up application, hair styling, and industry‑standard products.
• At least 3 years’ experience in a commercial or editorial hair and make‑up role.
• Experience working across both e‑commerce and editorial shoots in a fast‑paced studio environment.
• Up‑to‑date with current trends in fashion, beauty, and styling, and able to translate these into commercial looks.
• Ability to create hair and make‑up that complements product styling and lighting direction.
• Excellent planning, time management, and organisational skills.
• Comfortable taking ownership of shoot prep and execution independently.
• Strong team player with highly developed interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proactive, innovative, and eager to bring creative ideas to life.
• Commercially minded with an eye for detail and consistency.
• Competent using MAC OS and G Suite.
• Able to remain calm, professional, and solution‑focused in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment.
• A strong communicator and listener who can take and apply feedback effectively.
• A strong supporting portfolio or website showcasing relevant work.
• Full UK driving licence required.

Please include your portfolio to support your application

About Us

You know Next, but did you know we’re a FTSE‑100 retail company employing over 35,000 people across the UK and Ireland. We’re the UK’s 2nd largest fashion retailer and for Kidswear we’re the market leader. At the last count we have over 500 stores, plus the Next Online and it’s now possible to buy on‑line from over 70 countries around the world! So we’ve gone global!

About The Team

• 25% off most NEXT, MADE*, Lipsy*, Gap* and Victoria's Secret* products (*when purchased through NEXT)
• Company performance based bonus
• Sharesave scheme
• On‑site Nursery available; OFSTED outstanding in all areas
• 10% off most partner brands & up to 15% off Branded Beauty
• Early VIP access to sale stock
• Access to fantastic discounts at our Staff Shops
• Restaurants with great food at amazing prices
• Access a digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services
• Free on‑site parking
• Financial Wellbeing – Save, track and enhance your financial wellbeing
• Apprenticeship – Grow and develop on the job whilst gaining a qualification
• Direct to Work – Discount online and instore, collect your items the next day for free from your place of work or local store
• Support Networks – Access to Network Groups to empower and celebrate each other
• Wellhub – Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, with apps, PT sessions and more

Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change. We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long‑term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email [e-mail] (please include ‘Workplace Adjustments’ in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.