She’s a ball of organised energy that simply loves being thrown in the deep end.
Let us introduce you to our Project Manager, Izzy …
What did you do before joining Alive?
Before Alive, I was a Studio Manager in the Fashion Industry. I’ve worked across luxury, fast fashion, womenswear, menswear and even bridal and swimwear. I began as an apprentice and worked up to managing a busy studio with a team of designers, machinists, and pattern cutters. Working for small brands meant I was involved in absolutely everything from initial designs right through to the shop floor. I was lucky to be involved in London Fashion Week and travel to fabric fairs worldwide – my true love is fabric shopping! Although I enjoyed the chaos and creativity in fashion, the pandemic made me evaluate what I wanted to do and where I wanted to be, so I looked for a change and new opportunities.
When did you first decide you wanted to be a PM?
Looking back, I think I have always done it – just without the official title. I love being organised in a creative environment and making sense of all the ideas flying around. I also just love getting stuff done. Completing my MBA and PRINCE2 reinforced what I had already learnt in the workplace and gave structure to what I do on a daily basis.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
Being at Alive means that every day is different – I love the diversity of projects and all the lovely humans behind them. One of my favourite things is the seemingly endless source of inspiration – the sharing of ideas and knowledge is amazing, and you never know what you might learn.
Where are we most likely to find you outside of work?
You are most likely to find me either outside in my walking boots or tucked away in my sewing room.
I love nothing more than getting some more miles in my boots and am lucky to live in a beautiful part of the country. Pre-Covid I volunteered as a Walking for Health leader – planning and leading walks in the local area for people suffering from post-natal depression and loneliness – fresh air and muddy boots can be a great soul cleanser.
Equally, I’m happy to spend a day sitting at my machine making something new for my handmade wardrobe – I am aiming for 100% handmade or second-hand clothes this year – it also satisfies my need for fabric shopping!
Finally, something we’d never guess about you?
Although I may come across as quiet at first, I love a challenge and being thrown out of my comfort zone. I’ve previously lived in a few places around the world including Nanjing, China where I ran a sample room in a garment factory with zero English speakers. I’ve also called Paris home for two years – although I didn’t quite master the language in either country, I did tuck into all the amazing food on offer!