In Conversation with Meytal Clark Rubin

Tell us about your background:

I’ve worked in senior merchandising leadership roles at start-up and mid-sized fashion brands in apparel, intimates/swim, and accessories overseeing product strategy, product development, supply chains, and in general team management. I help brands to create and execute strategic and profitable product assortments and go-to-market strategies to align with overall brand goals. I started my career in finance in the UK, where I grew up. I’m passionate about sustainability and have experience in sustainable product strategy including supply chain standards, low-impact materials, and B-Corp certification. I’m currently consulting for various brands, including Gottex Swimwear, including brand and product positioning to drive growth, utilizing selling data and market research for effective strategic decision-making.

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

To be true to your values in the workplace. Ultimately, each of us deserves to work within a culture that aligns with our personal values and to thrive as our true selves.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Two things - 1. To work smart and not hard, 2. To be kind. I think we all have moments in our career, especially early on, where we think burning our selves out for a job is part of life, but ultimately it’s not sustainable to live that way. I’m a believer in figuring out processes to make work less stressful – stepping back to think about how to improve work flows/processes, delegating, and tech advances for example. Secondly, being kind to people cannot be overstated, as you never know who you will cross paths with again in this small industry.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Transparency on company/team/personal goals and support through positive feedback and timely constructive feedback.

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

Switching from finance to fashion was not as easy as I thought it would be! I was pretty arrogant, thinking that my experience working in finance would immediately impress people. However, without any fashion background, people did not seem to care. I had to accept that I needed to start at a pretty entry-level position and work my way up again, which I did! Luckily, I managed to get some paid work experience at some great brands after networking and talking to a lot of people. For instance, I had the opportunity to work with Emilia Wickstead on her second collection and at Conde Nast Brides in the UK. All of these experiences helped pave the way for my first full-time role in the industry.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

A great white t-shirt and a good bra (to make sure there are no unfortunate bumps!). My favorite T at the moment is Redone x Hanes and my favorite bra is by Negative Underwear.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meytal-clark-rubin/

Website: https://www.meytalclarkrubin.com/

Instagram: @toolierubin