Katie Smith
I am a highly skilled Creative Director, Designer, and Entrepreneur with a proven track record of excellence in accessory design, brand strategy, marketing, and business development. I am an exceptional and instinctual trend predictor with a natural leadership style, able to effectively communicate with teams and oversee the creative process from conception to completion. A visionary leader with a proven track record of delivering results and driving business growth, I am adept at delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget while maintaining exceptional relationships with clients. Throughout my career I have won several coveted awards, including being shortlisted for the inaugural BFC/Vogue fashion fund in 2010 alongside Christopher Kane and Erdem and the Topshop New Designer Award in 2008.
As a creative consultant I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to every project. With more that 15 years of experience in the fashion industry, I have honed my skills in design, trend forecasting, and brand development, working with clients to create visually stunning and commercially successful collections. My in-depth knowledge of the luxury handbag market, combined with a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, allows me to offer strategic guidance to brands looking to elevate their product offerings and expand their reach. I work closely with clients to identify their unique vision and goals, and then collaborate with designers and artisans to bring that vision to life, ensuring that each bag is a true reflection of the brand's DNA. Whether it's developing a new collection, refreshing an existing one, or repositioning a brand for greater success, I approach each project with a creative and strategic mindset, delivering exceptional results that exceed expectations.
Creative Direction | Design Management | Business Development |UK and Indonesia + extensive travel Launched brand globally through traditional marketing and sales, resulting in over 300 wholesale stockists Developed successful e-commerce platform (B2B and B2C) and social media channels Led all aspects of the business, including design, production, sales, and marketing Managed design delivery from concept to completion Built and managed a team of designers and artisans, overseeing the development and production of sustainable and unique handbags and accessories Developed and executed brand strategy, positioning Angel Jackson as a leader in sustainable luxury fashion Secured partnerships with top-tier retailers, including Net-a-Porter, Selfridges, and Harvey Nichols Established relationships with extensive network of suppliers and creative agencies Conceptualised and executed innovative marketing campaigns, resulting in increased brand recognition and customer loyalty Developed and managed relationships with print and online press, celebrities, and influencers Winner ‘Topshop Accessory Designer’ and ‘Topshop Designer of the Year’ award Short listed for BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund alongside Christopher Kane and Erdem Led creative team of designers, stylists, and photographers to develop high-end fashion collections that generated over $1 million in revenue annually Provided creative direction and consultation for seasonal collections, including concept development, colour palettes, and styling Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including design, product development, and marketing Skills : Creative Thinking, Business Strategy, Leadership, Communication, Cross-functional collaboration, Adaptability, Financial Management, Time Management, Attention to Detail, Networking, Photo Shoots · Brand Management · Project management, Business Development · Graphic Design · Accessories design and development, Visual Communication · Creative Direction