Leaders Perception Magazine is currently running an interview series called – The Future Frontier: Insights from Diverse Leaders
Today, we’re thrilled to interview Eric Heckstall, the Founder and CEO of EDH SIGNATURE INC., renowned for its men’s luxury grooming products. Eric’s journey is one of unconventional beginnings and relentless pursuit of excellence. Starting as a barber at 15, he ventured into music before returning to entrepreneurship. His path led him back to academia, earning degrees in Accounting and Business Administration. Eric’s story defies convention, as he pursued education to enhance his already thriving career. In our discussion, we explore Eric’s insights on industry trends, technological advancements, and his commitment to diversity and inclusion. Join us as we unravel the wisdom of a trailblazer shaping the future of men’s grooming.
Interviewee Name: Eric Heckstall
Company: EDH SIGNATURE INC
Eric Heckstall’s favourite quote: “Do Not Go Where The Path May Lead, Go Instead Where There is No Path and Leave a Trail” -Ralph Waldo Emerson
The Interview
Thank you so much for joining us today! Tell us a little bit about yourself. What is your backstory?
Eric Heckstall : I’m Eric Heckstall. I’ve been in the men’s grooming business for four decades. I’m a former barber and licensed cosmetologist, author, and guest lecturer. I hold an MBA with an emphasis on Leadership and Strategy, and I’m the founder and CEO of EDH SIGNATURE INC., a men’s luxury grooming product line. Since my first job working in a barbershop at age 15 to owning and operating shops for over 25 years I’ve seen the need for quality grooming products for men. The first product released from our men’s grooming line “BLVD” Beard Oil is named after my barbershop BLVD.
As we embark on the journey into 2024, what are your hopes and expectations for the year ahead, both personally and professionally?
Eric Heckstall : I expect a great deal of change in 2024. Technology is moving at such a highly intense pace that industries are developing daily. It’s hard to predict what lies ahead, but I expect a considerable number of mergers and acquisitions. I’m an eternal optimist, so while things may currently appear chaotic I know that we will emerge with a landscape that has yet to be seen. It’s imperative to embrace our evolution. Hold the vision and continue to adjust the process. Growing our business to a global brand is at the core of my professional initiatives but my personal growth is just as, or more important. Ones greatness will be derived from their circumstances which takes a great deal of courage and resilience. Tools that I have acquired throughout my journey are being sharpened. To lead an industry you must not only create but innovate. This year our mantra is Scale.
How do you see technological advancements influencing your field or industry in the coming year, and what opportunities or challenges do they present?
Eric Heckstall : Artificial intelligence is currently the biggest driver in technology. Having the ability to leverage it will separate those that lead industries and those that follow. Our industry will be influenced by our potential to optimize ai marketing assets for its competitive advantage. This means that organizations must not just keeping a pulse on the advancements of ai but learning how utilize them effectively. Some challenges remain unseen. However, software detectors that penalize the explicit use of apps like chat gpt and government regulations are quickly becoming relevant. For e-commerce companies this means that search engine rankings may drastically be affected if not used properly.
As a leader or aspiring leader, what role do you believe diversity, equity, and inclusion will play in shaping the future of your industry, and how are you working to promote these values within your sphere of influence?
Eric Heckstall : The Beauty and Personal Care industry will see more diversity, equity, and inclusion in the coming years. It has operated within (DEI) on a small scale for some time. This is not a new concept for us. Minority brands are expanding in e-commerce and the big box retailer space. Social media has forced corporate giants to recognize the value of minority brands in the global economy so I believe we will see more diversity in the C-Suite. I’m working with the best talent and those that share our vision are welcomed.
Leaders Perception would like to thank Eric Heckstall and EDH SIGNATURE INC for the time dedicated to completing this interview and sharing their valuable insights with our readers!
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