We delve into the licensing life of Fluid World’s general manager.
Sarah Fletcher,
General Manager, Fluid World
My route into the licensing industry went something like this…
I studied Fashion Management at the London College of Fashion but was always passionate about the childrenswear sector. I am a huge Disney fan so applied and was offered a buyer’s assistant role at The Disney Store. It was my dream job and started me on the path of licensing.
How many years in the industry?
7 years
When I was growing up, I had no idea licensing was an industry so I wanted to be…
Either a fashion designer or a wedding planner.
The deal I am most proud of is…
That’s a tough one but the recent signing of the preschool property Goose has to be one of them, it is a brand with so much potential and I am looking forward to building it in 2016. It is close to my heart as I have enjoyed the books with my young son.
My most interesting experience in licensing has been…
With an interest in fashion since childhood, being involved from the beginning in the imminent launch of the Jourdan Dunn collections has been amazing, working alongside Jourdan to build the collection, cast the models and create the campaign.
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is…
Never show all your cards!
If I wasn’t in licensing, I would be…
Running a childrenswear store and writing children’s books.
Who do you admire most in the industry (and why)?
Being in licensing for seven years I have met lots of people who have helped me build my career and the brands I work on, but Walt Disney will always be my idol, he is a true visionary leader.
In a film of your life, which licensed character would play you?
Tigger. I am full of energy, always ready to think outside the box and be a bit crazy to come up with the next new product.
If I could change anything about the industry, it would be…
To add some fun… I am a big supporter of bricks and mortar, but increasingly stores are stocking the same ‘safe’ brands and a with lack of theatre the shopping experience is becoming tired. I am looking forward to Pusheen adding something new in the older girls category this year.
