Jane Shepherdson CBE, a leading figure in high street fashion retail, came to Smart Works Edinburgh last night to share her remarkable career story. As former Brand Director of Topshop and then CEO of Whistles, Jane has been lauded as the inspirational figure who took fashion from the catwalks and made it accessible for the everyday consumer.
Jane Shepherdson is a national patron of Smart Works, the charity which helps unemployed and vulnerable women get back into work by providing interview clothing and interview training, allowing them to look and feel their best at a crucial moment in their lives. Over one in two women Smart Works sees will go on to get the job within a month of their interview.
For the first time in Scotland, Jane shared her candid insights in conversation with Jennifer Crichton-Gibson, editor of Hood magazine, at our event held in partnership with RSM, at Contini George Street.
Of the evening, Jane Shepherdson CBE and Patron of Smart Works said:
“It’s an honour to have the opportunity to share my story, for the first time, in Edinburgh, and help the local centre of Smart Works, a charity which is very close to my heart, to support more women into employment. I’m very much looking forward to an evening of conversation, warmth and fun, and meeting supporters from the city and beyond”
Maggie Darling, acting Chair, Smart Works Edinburgh, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Jane who changed the face of fashion, and who understands how Smart Works has helped transform lives”
Claire Monaghan, partner at RSM, said:
“Improving diversity in all businesses is key to bringing different viewpoints and ideas to the table – helping to drive business performance whilst enriching the lives of individuals. This is what Smart Works strives to do, and we are proud to be supporting the valued work that they do at the Jane Shepherdson event”
Guests enjoyed shopping and fun experiences from le tee Paris, Park Lane Jewellery, Life With Style and Grace Chocolates, and Bobbi Brown, together with hospitality by the Contini team.
Thanks to Smart Works Edinburgh’s generous supporters, we were able to raise almost £4000 in our mission to help every woman gain the confidence she needs to get the job she deserves.
