‘Challenges are inevitable, but staying focused and adaptable is the key to success’

We bought the company back in 2017 – the bag-making part of the company was a small side business to the main business of sail-making. 

I took that part of the business under my wing. I didn’t always want to own my own bag-making company—I actually studied Computer Science at Cambridge University—but building the company around something both beautiful and useful was incredibly rewarding, and I realised that it was the perfect fit for me!

My most formative work experience was working in a fast-paced banking environment early in my career. 

It taught me the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, and collaboration – skills that have been invaluable in building my own business. After I graduated from university, I started working as a software developer in London for a company called Fidessa, which developed software for trading systems. 

The most invaluable thing I learned early on in my career was the power of resilience. 

Challenges are inevitable, but staying focused and adaptable has been key to overcoming obstacles and finding success.

A common misconception about what I do is that it’s all about bag-making. 

While this is one of the biggest parts of the job, running a business also involves logistics, strategy, and constant problem-solving to keep everything running smoothly. My main responsibility in work is to oversee both the creative and operational sides of the business, ensuring that our products meet quality standards while also driving growth and staying true to our brand vision.

I’m lucky to have a few trusted mentors who guide me, each offering unique insights based on their experiences. 

They help me navigate challenges, offer fresh perspectives, and encourage me to think bigger.

The biggest risk I have taken in my career so far is moving from a stable and very successful career as a Vice President with HSBC in Hong Kong—where I was running a team across Asia—to owning a small sail-making and bag company in Crosshaven. 

The transition was daunting but it’s been incredibly rewarding and has taught me so much about resilience and growth!

I like to start my mornings with a clear mind and set a focused tone for the day ahead.

My dog Bert (he’s a Shetland Sheepdog) and I have a good few minutes of cuddles before heading off for a morning walk, followed by a cup of tea and a quick review of my schedule and priorities for the day. 

I can’t go to work without my notebook.

It’s essential for jotting down ideas, keeping track of tasks, and staying organised throughout the day. I travel to work on foot as I only live five minutes away!

On an average workday, I focus on a mix of design, strategic planning, and overseeing day-to-day operations.

I make sure I stay connected with my team to ensure projects are on track and adapt to any challenges that come up. I usually start my working day at 8am and the first thing I do is check my emails and messages to prioritise any urgent tasks or updates. This helps me set my agenda and ensures I’m aligned with my team right from the start.

I usually spend the first portion of the day tackling high-priority projects.

This is the time when I feel most productive and inspired, making it the best time to do these tasks! I take a break at 11am and walk Bert for around 45 minutes. I like to have an early lunch at around 12pm, which usually consists of a salad or a bowl of soup.

The most useful business tool I use every day is my project management software. 

It streamlines task organisation, enhances team collaboration, and ensures that deadlines are met, ultimately boosting our productivity and efficiency. I save time by not putting things off until later. Tackling tasks as they come up prevents them from piling up and keeps my workload manageable, allowing me to stay organised and efficient.

I rarely get through my working day without a good cup of coffee and a check-in with the team.

But the best part of my day is meeting customers. Interacting with them provides valuable insights and feedback, and it’s rewarding to see how our products resonate with their needs and interests.

The most challenging part of my day is managing the demands of customer expectations while ensuring quality and efficiency in our operations.

Balancing these aspects requires careful attention and quick decision-making. I know it’s been a good day if I’ve tackled my key tasks, had meaningful conversations with customers, and felt a sense of accomplishment at the end. Positive feedback from my team also makes it a great day!

I set clear boundaries between work and home time, so I finish work at 6pm (unless there’s an emergency!).

I switch off from work by cooking. It’s a great way for me to unwind and get creative in the kitchen, allowing me to focus on something completely different and enjoy the process of making a delicious meal. Volunteering with the RNLI allows me to give back to the community and take a break from my daily routine, while also being part of a dedicated team that makes a real difference.

Before I go to bed, I’ll review any loose ends from the day, jot down notes or ideas, and set an intention for the next day. 

This routine helps me clear my mind and wind down for a restful night. I often prepare for tomorrow by reviewing my task list and setting priorities for the day ahead which means I start each day with a clear plan and can focus on what matters most. 

After a long work week, I destress by going on long walks with Bert and my husband, usually taking in a good lunch at one of our favourite places. 

I also spend time volunteering with the RNLI most weekends, where we spend time on the water training.

The accomplishment I’m most proud of is opening up our workshop and shop in the middle of Crosshaven.

It was a significant milestone that brought our vision to life and allowed us to connect with the community in a meaningful way. At the moment, I’m working on expanding our marketing strategy to reach a broader audience and enhance our brand presence.

If you want to get into my line of work, my advice is to stay curious and embrace continuous learning. 

Build a strong foundation in both design and business skills, and don’t hesitate to network and seek mentorship along the way.