Follow us

Menu
PARTNER WITH USFREE NEWSLETTER
VISIT TheIndustry.beauty

MEMBER INTERVIEW WITH DAVID WARD

The Industry London
31 January 2012

Industry member, David Ward has worked in the fashion industry for nearly 20 years. With a wealth of experience under his belt, he has independently founded three companies and is currently Brand Distribution Director at JD Sports Fashion Group. As a specialist in business development and strategic planning, we chat to David about turning challenges into opportunities.

Tell me a little bit about yourself?

I have done all sorts in fashion over the years. Through working alongside some really talented people I have learned an awful lot about the way you need to work to be successful in the industry. This has meant not being afraid to change course or continue to learn. My experience has given me a very rounded overview of the industry.

I joined the JD Sports Fashion Group last September where I oversee the development of the great brands we own outside of our own businesses through licensing and direct to retail relationships. We have over twenty brands right now and I am sure this will continue to grow. As this is a new area of business for the group, I have been able to lean in against the years of experience I have gained to great advantage.

What challenges have you faced throughout your time in the fashion industry? And how have you turned these into opportunities?

There have been numerous. Each season brings new challenges for us all. But in terms of one key challenge, I would say being relevant. What I mean is being of value; to your team, your company, your clients and yourself. As a leader this sometimes means making yourself dispensable and allowing the team to grow. I have never feared this and in many ways it has shaped my way of working. Knowing not only the business of your brand, but the business your brand is in, is I believe a key element in being able to spot the opportunities ahead of others.

What Industry members have you worked with?

I am focused 100% on my work for the JD Sports Fashion Group right now, and The Industry membership is growing so it would be hard one to pin down. But I often look to other people in The Industry for help and advice. I have always believed that you should help others with no requirement that they help you in return, just because you can. Hopefully one day when you need some help or advice those same people or others would be prepared to assist you along the road.

Get in touch with David via The Industry Directory

Free NewsletterVISIT TheIndustry.beauty
cross