In the ever-evolving landscape of the fashion industry, women today are not just contributors, instead, they are innovators and trendsetters. These are women who are rethinking and re-imagining what most individuals perceive as normal. From entrepreneurs to designers, women are taking the lead in dismantling traditional concepts and ideas and are revolutionizing the way we engage with fashion.
The transformative influence of these trailblazing women spans across diverse domains, from advocating sustainability and shattering gender norms to reviving age-old textiles, designs, and techniques for the modern world; they are re-writing the narrative of fashion and are leaving an indelible mark in its world.
This week, IMAGES Business of Fashion takes a deeper look at the life and achievements of Farida Kaliyadan, COO, Louis Philippe, Planet Fashion, Customer Centricity Head.
About Farida Kaliyadan
Farida Kaliyadan has over 25 years of experience across varying consumer industries and brand building.
Education
> Global Leadership program ABG, ABG Coaching Program – In progress
> Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing from Times School Of Marketing
> BSc, Science Graduate- Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Bangalore University
> Kendriya Vidyalaya Bangalore
Career History and Experience
> COO, Louis Philippe, Planet Fashion, Customer Centricity Head; 2018- Present
> Madhura Garments Lifestyle Retail- Chief Marketing Officer- Louis Philippe, Van Heusen, Allen Solly & Peter England; 2016-2018
> VP- Brand Development (Strategic Marketing); 2012-2016
> Unilever- GM Business Head Lakme Colors, Brand Innovation Colors & Skin,Head- Lakme Fashion Week; 2011- 2012
> Aditya Birla Retail- AVP, Business Head Private Label; 2007- Jan 2011
> Reliance BIG Music & Home Entertainment, Associate Vice President, Karnataka Circle Head; 2006- 2007
> Lintas- AVP Client Servicing Head; 2000-2006
Current Roles and Responsibilities
> Lead the P&L of Louis Philippe and Planet Fashion
> Marketing Council Director for Lifestyle Brands
> Customer Centricity Head for Lifestyle Brands
Strength:
> Drive impact
> Build and coach teams
> Drive learning
Aspirations
On her aspirations, Farida says, “Build a Rs 3,000 crore Louis Philippe business and strong leaders across all levels.”
Game Changing Retail Technologies
Farida says, “Virtual Reality and AI both will upend the business from design to creation and the way we buy and sell and consume.”
Skills That Helped Her Succeed
> Drive closures
> Focus on big pieces
> deep desire to grow and guide teams
> Reflect
Future of Fashion Retail
On the future of the fashion retail industry, she says, “Organized retail in India has a lot of potential to grow, however the growth will be driven at different levels in different markets. Brands will have to play at all levels. Digital upending will happen and get fast-tracked with stabilization happening with consumer choices being on brands, sustainability must be owned and driven as an industry approach taking one step at a time to drive it.”
Any role model in the industry
On the subject of role model, Apeksha says, “Ashish Dikshit and Vishak Kumar.”
Lessons learned over the years
Mentors and their role is unparalleled in any journey. Find them at all stages.
Life mantra
Be fantastic. Be fine – both are possible.
