At Keller, we believe the professionals behind the chair deserve recognition — especially those shaping the culture and community around them. That’s why we’re spotlighting Jesse Salvatore Ciffa, better known as Barber Chief. Jesse is the owner of Chief’s Barber Parlour in Buffalo, NY, and leads the barbering team trusted by the Buffalo Bills’ players and coaching staff.
From cutting hair in his grandfather’s basement to building a ritual space inside the Bills’ stadium, Jesse’s journey is one of tradition, leadership, and impact. As a Master Barber and two-time nominee in the 2024 One Shot Hair Awards, his story reflects what it means to show up — for your shop, your team, and your craft.
My grandmother would cook us dinner while I cut hair in the basement.
My grandfather owned a barbershop on the west side of Buffalo years ago. Growing up, I’d get my haircut in his basement shop. When I started cutting in college, I brought friends there — and my grandmother would cook us dinner while we hung out and got cuts.
That early experience didn’t just inspire Jesse to pick up the clippers — it rooted him in tradition, hospitality, and community. The same energy lives on in his current shop, where professionalism meets personality in every detail.
From Passion to Platform
Today, Jesse runs a high-traffic barbershop in Buffalo, leads a team of skilled professionals, and regularly cuts for NFL athletes — including Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.
It’s a toss-up between watching my barbers with full schedules making great livings, or being voted Top 5 Fade in the world at the One Shot Hair Awards in 2023. Both were proud moments.
But ask Jesse what matters most? It’s the people he works alongside every day — and the clients who keep coming back, not just for a haircut, but for the experience.
Advice for New Barbers
Plenty of things, but if I had to narrow it down:
– Be available in the shop. You won’t grow a clientele without putting in the hours.
– Treat every customer with respect. You’ll fill your schedule faster by being a good person than just being a good barber.
It’s this mindset — equal parts humble and driven — that continues to build Jesse’s reputation not just as a great barber, but as a respected leader in the industry.
Why Keller?
I was referred to Keller by another local barbershop. Once we found out the headquarters were close by, we were able to pick up our chairs just in time for our grand opening.
Keller also donated all new barber chairs for our barbershop space at the Buffalo Bills stadium. We — and the team — are very grateful for those beautiful chairs. Those stadium chairs are definitely my favorite Keller product.
We’re proud to be part of Jesse’s story — from his first location to the sidelines of the NFL.
📸 Featured Keller Products:
Jesse embodies everything we stand for at Keller: craft, commitment, and connection. Whether he’s mentoring his team or lining up the next game-day cut, his focus is clear — excellence in every detail.
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🔹 Featured Barber
Jesse Salvatore Ciffa, @barber.chief
Co-Owner & Master Barber, Chief’s Barber Parlour
📍 1567 Military Rd, Buffalo, NY 14217
📞 (716) 381-8329