In Conversation with Tina Yau

Tell us about your background:

With over 20 years of experience in the fashion, apparel, and beauty industries, I have helped scale eCommerce businesses for both luxury and mass retailers, working across regional and global markets. My career includes leadership roles at brands like Armani Exchange, Opening Ceremony, Estée Lauder (Bobbi Brown brand), and most recently, Uniqlo.

After five years at Uniqlo, where I expanded and optimized their online and offline customer experience and contributed to their top and bottom revenue line, I’m now embarking on an exciting new journey of launching my own company. Currently in the pre-launch phase and will share more about it when time comes!

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

While I understood the importance of networking early on in my career, I would wish I continued to grow my network through other channels such as social, events, guest spots, podcasts etc as opposed to just more traditional networking meetups. Building and nurturing connections throughout my career has been invaluable, leading to countless opportunities, both professionally and personally.

Additionally, I would have shared my achievements and insights more frequently with the broader industry. Doing so isn't just about highlighting success—it's about contributing to collective learning and growth. We all have valuable experiences and lessons that can benefit others.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Step outside of your comfort zone and be persistent! Growth comes from challenging yourself, and persistence is key to overcoming setbacks and achieving long-term success.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Transparency, persistence, strategic risk-taking and collaboration are key leadership qualities that foster trust, resilience, and teamwork.

I also believe it's equally important to recognize and reward your team’s achievements, both big and small wins, as this motivates and empowers them to continue striving for excellence.

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

Starting my own company has been my biggest challenge to date! While the journey has pushed me to learn new skills, it has also allowed me to apply many of the abilities I honed throughout my career. This experience has been both a testament to perseverance and grit, giving me the opportunity to stretch myself and pursue launching my own company.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

Being a New Yorker, black is my basic go to where I feel most pulled together. However, I do mix and match with a great pair of jeans and button down shirt or turtleneck depending on the season!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-yau/

Instagram: @tinaxyau