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At Maxwell Scott HQ, we’re honouring Women’s Equality Day by interviewing some of the women who have helped make the brand what it is today. Read on to discover their thoughts on equality in the workplace, their advice on working in the fashion industry and why they’re excited about the future…
What are the most important obstacles that need to be tackled in order to create a more egalitarian workplace?
I would like to see more women in leading roles and more women getting the chance to come back to senior positions after having kids. Women are still often seen as less capable to do a job or are stereotyped in the mother role when coming back to work- that needs to change.
Describe the most rewarding aspect of your job.
The most rewarding aspect of my job especially this year was to be able to follow the production of a product from start to finish. Being heavily involved in the planning of the new collection and being able to travel to Italy to visit the factory has confirmed that we manufacture a beautiful product. I can now say that I am 110% convinced about what we do. It was also a great inspiration for content and campaigns.
On a personal level, it’s great to see when people develop and grow with the brand.
What is it like to work in a strong team of women?
It is incredibly motivating to be surrounded by strong women and it really inspires you to succeed yourself.
What inspired you to follow your career path?
Whilst at university I had jobs working part-time in a department store within the luxury accessories department. It was there that I developed a passion for luxury brands and quality products, with which Maxwell Scott’s brand values aligned perfectly.
What advice would you give to other young women hoping to enter the luxury fashion industry?
Take every opportunity offered to you to gain experience, no matter how small. The luxury fashion industry can be incredibly competitive so it is important to set yourself apart from the crowd.
How has working at Maxwell Scott allowed you to grow?
Before working at Maxwell Scott I had only worked in-store for brands, so it has been fascinating to learn about the work that goes on behind the scenes to grow and run a luxury fashion brand in all areas of the business.
Why is a women’s equality day so vital to celebrate and discuss?
Today in the UK and many other countries women and men have equal access to education, the right to vote and free speech. However, despite this, there is often still a stigma in the workplace that women are less capable than men to do a job well, which shows in the lack of women in management positions and the gender pay gap.
Describe yourself in three words.
Determined, confident, motivated.
Is there a woman who inspires you in your life?
I’ve always admired Mary Portas, she seems to have the ability to turn any business into a success and makes it look effortless!
What is your favourite way to destress after a long day at work?
Having quality time with my children, family and beloved dogs….as well as a chilled glass of something to hand!
What are your career ambitions?
Having returned to work after taking time out to have children, I am now working on a relatively new area for the business. It has been both challenging and rewarding returning to work in a new sector. I’d love to see the corporate side of the business grow over the next couple of years, enough to recruit a team and expand further. It’s been refreshing to move from the consumer to the corporate side and I feel there is room for a lot of growth in this market.
What are you most excited for the future of Maxwell Scott?
I’m really looking forward to the new collections that are launching in the upcoming months. I’ve seen a few items already and I can’t wait to hear what our customers think of them.
Taking a break from work, where is your favourite place for a weekend away?
I grew up by the sea so whenever I’ve got a day off I love to go to the nearest beach and dip my toes in the water.
What career did you dream about when you were a child?
I always wanted to become an actress and I even looked into theater schools after graduation but finally, I decided against it and pursued my other passion: media. But to this day I love watching plays and musicals.
Describe the Maxwell Scott family in three words.
Motivated, passionate, caring.
What is it like to work in a strong team of women?
I grew up surrounded by strong women so I feel lucky to be in the same situation at work. It’s definitely empowering to come to the office and be surrounded by women with a strong work ethic.
What inspired you to follow your career path?
When I was 14, I won a fashion writing competition in a teen magazine called Cosmogirl. The Fashion Editor at the time was Navaz Batliwalla (author of The New Garconne, How To Be a Modern Gentlewoman) and meeting her was like a lightbulb switching on in my head. I instantly knew I wanted to work in fashion and content from that day forward. She was the first woman to inspire my career.
What advice would you give to other young women hoping to enter the luxury fashion industry?
Although fashion may sound like fun, it’s a multi-billion industry and just as cut throat as other more traditional sectors. With e-commerce developing at such a fast pace, there’s no better time than now to get involved in the luxury fashion industry. My main piece of advice is to respect everyone you meet along the way and soak up as much knowledge from them as you possibly can.
