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About STERLINGS

STERLINGS was founded by a high tech/life sciences professional, Kush Kapila, who like many busy professionals found the process of traveling and waiting for a haircut often frustrating and time consuming. Following a particularly bad episode that entailed waiting 40 minutes in line for a less than satisfactory hair cut, Kapila passed a gourmet food truck – another embodiment of the value of mobile services – and the STERLINGS concept was born. After testing the idea with numerous professionals, and being awarded 1st place at the 2011 UCSD Entrepreneur challenge for a consumer product, he was confident that he had discovered an unmet need. What separates STERLINGS from the brick and mortar chains is not only the elimination of having to drive or wait in line but the superior haircuts and atmosphere the service provides — all at a price comparable to the chain salons. STERLINGS is a member of the prestigious CONNECT springboard program and is well funded through private investment.


STERLINGS Team

Kush Kapila (BS, MS, MBA) – Founder & CEO:

  • Marketing professional with over 9 years of experience working in hardware and software, for private and public companies in the life science and high tech industries. Kush has an undergraduate degree in Computer Science from McGill University, a Masters in Bioinformatics from Concordia University and and MBA from the Rady School of Management at UCSD.

Alex Helm (BS, MBA) – President

  • Skilled marketing and management professional with over 8 years of experience in the Life Science and Pharma industries.  Alex has undergraduate degrees in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Minnesota and an MBA from the Rady School of Management at UCSD

Anup Marwadi (BS, MS) – Technology

  • 15+ yrs of Software development experience with expertise in verticals like Mortgage, Education, Healthcare, Media Services, Web2.0, Finance, Telematics and Mobile. Founder of HyperTrends Global Inc. – a software development firm.

Heather O’Quinn – Industry Strategy:

  • 20+ years hair care experience. Former director of operations at Robert Cromeans

Chris Haddad (BS, MBA) – Sales:

  • Sales professional with over 10 years experience selling to the healthcare industry

Judith Ohrn Hicks – Human Resources:

  • 20+ years of experience in the field of human resource management. Vice-President of HR at Accelrys

Derek J. Lobo (B.A., J.D.) – General Counsel:

  • Attorney with 20+ years experience specializing in business law

Mike Sick – Advisor:

  • 30+ years of marketing experience. Former VP of Marketing for Jack in the box and Pearle Vision

Stan Kim – Advisor:

  • COO and general counsel of Softmax. Expertise in biotech, high tech and IP

Leigh Ann S – STYLIST

Leigh Ann is an energetic and knowledgeable hairstylist from Columbus, Ohio. After attending the prestigious Aveda Institute, Leigh Ann built a loyal clientele as a stylist while refining her skills through an extensive training program at a local salon. She continues to take classes including Redken, Lanza, Schwarzkopf and cutting classes. Leigh Ann values trust with her clients above all and she always takes time to understand her client’s style and aesthetic needs.

Book an appointment with Leigh Ann today!

Katie N – STYLIST

Katie, originally from San Diego, is a talented stylist with a lifelong passion for hair and fashion. While attending the Marinello Schools, she developed a keen expertise in both men’s and women’s cuts. Katie quickly started cultivating her talents in the industry by working in salons and practicing makeup, both professionally and for fun in her off time. Katie is an extremely well-rounded stylist with a talent for great cuts and a passion for style.

Book an appointment with Katie today!

Liz G. – STYLIST

Liz is a personable and expert stylist with 20 years of experience in the industry. Liz prides herself on her vast knowledge of hairstyles, industry trends, and product brands. If you have a question about hair, Liz has the answer! Equally skilled in both men’s and women’s cuts, she continues to develop her techniques by attending trade shows and taking hands on classes like “Mitch” through the Paul Mitchell School. Her motto is “a great haircut begins with great communication.”

Book an appointment with Liz today!

Victor R – BARBER

Victor is a highly-skilled, licensed barber. After receiving his formal training at the Associated Barber College – where he excelled in giving classic gentleman’s cuts – His passion for the industry led him to continue his education in contemporary barbering techniques to master modern style men’s cuts. As a classically trained barber, Victor is also an expert at giving straight razor shaves, which he performs with careful precision. Victor prides himself on his attention to quality service and strives to make sure that all of his clients look and feel their best.

Book an appointment with Victor today!