CLOUD NINE appoints new brand director

Harrogate-based CLOUD NINE, the award-winning hair styling tools company, has named Julian Kynaston as its new brand director. 

Julian, founder and chief executive officer of Propaganda Brand Consultancy and chair of GenM, will take on the role alongside his existing responsibilities.

The appointment reinforces the deep connection between the two Yorkshire-based brands, with Propaganda originally helping to create CLOUD NINE in 2009. The company recently reappointed Propaganda as its lead marketing and creative agency in a seven-figure deal, previously held by IMA Home, without a pitch.

With Julian’s expertise and Propaganda’s 30 years of experience in strategic brand development, CLOUD NINE is set for ambitious global expansion across retail and eCommerce. 

Julian’s background includes launching ghd haircare to international markets and founding beauty brand Illamasqua, known for its disruptive impact on the industry. 

He said: “After a 14-year absence I’m back to shape up the world of styling irons! 

“I have been working closely with the CLOUD NINE team since they re-engaged with Propaganda last August. 

“After many discussions with the shareholders and chief executive officer, I’ll now be helping to deliver their ambitions as brand director. 

“Given the shared history between Propaganda and CLOUD NINE, we have an inherent passion for the brand, and we also have a point to prove to the current market leaders.

“We’re looking forward to making a huge impact on styling tools and challenging the status quo once more.”

Martin Rae, owner and founder of CLOUD NINE, added: “We’re so proud of everything that we’ve achieved at CLOUD NINE over 15 years, but there's always a desire to do more. 

“We want to leave a legacy – and we want to really step into our role as the only challenger brand to the market leader. 

“No one has made more of an impact in the world of styling iron branding than Julian Kynaston, so bringing him back on the team just felt like the most logical thing to do. 

“We’re excited to continue working closely with Julian and the Propaganda team.”

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