In Conversation with Jay Anderson

Tell us about your background: 

Originally from Louisiana but I've lived in Texas and call NYC my "true home" though I've made the move to London as of last year. Growing up, I wanted to be the next Tyra Banks and use fashion as a stepping stone to creating my empire. As you may have noticed, I haven't made the cover of SI as of yet so that has allowed me to hone in on my other talent sets and become an industry leader in other ways. I am an active member of PMINYC, a mentor for the Fashion Scholarship Fund, have created programs and events aimed at innovating fashion through project management, sustainability, circularity, and technology. My current goal is to break into the world of corporate venture capital as there is a significant need for a new way of investing in and doing business within the fashion industry that will allow for modernization and growth, the right way.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

That mentorship from the right mentor can be career and life changing! When you find a mentor that sees your potential and can help you navigate through the uncertainty, it helps ease the waves of the unknown.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Dream BIGGER and be selfish! I have a tendency to accept the bare minimum while giving too much away, which leads to an empty cup while you have helped others runneth over.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

A leader who can create leaders, that level of being open minded and visionary is rare, those who can see the potential in their team and help them develop their strengths so that the whole team continues to thrive.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

That I didn't go the traditional route, such as fashion or art school, so I've had to work twice as hard to prove my worth in fashion. I wouldn't change it though because it has allowed me to become equipped with skills to run every area of the business with agility through the lens of someone who wants to improve and innovate the industry as a whole.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

Rag and Bone Andre Boyfriend fit jeans, I am wearing as I type this, I own at least 7 pairs...

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-t-anderson/

Instagram: @fashionising101