Our latest leadership spotlight features Camilla Fowlkes!
Camilla Fowlkes’ journey in digital stretches back eleven years, when she began working in the beauty, skincare & luxury fashion industry.
Throughout those eleven years, Camilla has gained valuable experience working with some of the most recognisable names which include ASOS, Boots, Ted Baker, Selfridges and MZ Skin by Dr. Maryam Zamani.
In our exclusive chat with Camilla, she discusses her career to date, why she finds it important to work for a brand where she has a ‘natural affinity to their product and truly believes in their brand values’ the fast-paced digital landscape, why she’s excited but nervous about the future of AI and her plans for the future.
Read our Q&A with Camilla below.
Why did you join the Digital Leaders Club?
I think it’s incredibly important to surround yourself with those who can inspire you and assist you in staying updated on the latest trends and innovations. I am honoured to be a part of the Digital Leaders Club.
What's your career journey been like to date?
I have been working in the luxury fashion and beauty industry for the last eleven years, specialising in eCommerce and digital marketing. I started my career with larger corporates such as Net-A-Porter, ASOS, Boots and over the last five years worked with beauty SME’s and high-growth start-ups; Coco & Eve and MZ Skin by Dr. Maryam Zamani. Personally, I find it paramount to work for a brand where I have a natural affinity to their product and truly believe in their brand values.
What do you love about working in digital?
I love working in digital because it's fast-paced and ever-changing. Trends can peak as quickly as they can crash and you have to remain super reactive to drive growth and success. I particularly enjoy combining data-led learning with an appreciation for creativity.
What’s it been like transitioning to a hybrid setup over the past three years?
It has been a huge shift and one that has brought both positives and negatives. A well-managed hybrid set-up is one I believe offers invaluable physical social interaction and also provides an efficient space where you can work uninterrupted. I feel it offers a better work/ life balance and can have a positive impact on employee’s mental health. I have noticed my team can often have fewer boundaries when working from home, so I believe it’s important to me that leadership doesn’t promote or celebrate a burn-out culture.
What's the coolest/most interesting trend you're excited about?
AI. It’s as scary as it is exciting and I am intrigued to know how it will assist efficiency within eCommerce and digital. I must say, I am incredibly nervous about the security implications and unsure if the high risk of these outweighs the intelligence it can bring to the world.
What's your plan for the future?
I am currently looking for a new Head of Ecommerce/ digital role within the fashion and beauty industry with an established brand. In the interim, I am offering freelance and advisory to start-ups and SME’s. I am excited about the unknown and can’t wait to get my hands stuck in!
What would you be doing (for a career) if you weren’t doing this?
Cooking up a storm, riding horses or working as a teacher to young children.
Connect with Camila on LinkedIn
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