Last week, as part of the Inside the Industry series, Vanessa Kingori, Publisher at GQ Style and Associate Publisher- Fashion at GQ spoke to Professor Frances Corner about her stellar career.
Named by the 6th annual Power List 2013 as one of the 20 Most Influential Black Britons, she is currently the youngest publisher at Conde Nast UK and their first black Publisher in the company’s 95-year history. Vanessa has over a decade of experience in press publishing and she shared her opinions and insights with the attending students.
Dispelling the myth that creatively gifted people are not business minded Vanessa gave insight into the industry as well as her career path:
“Publishing, as well as all other fashion careers, is about observation. Be aware of the tribes, trends and cultural shifts around you.”
The publisher added,
“Do not allow yourself to be pigeon-holed. Ignore others’ preconceptions of you.”
She discussed how her background in sociology, understanding of the editorial and commercial aspects of publishing and genuine love of fashion has allowed her to succeed in her role.
Vanessa shared further lessons throughout the evening, including her key tips for business success:
“Organisation is key. People always remember what went wrong so always have a backup plan.”
“Network. Personal recommendation is the best way to get into to Condé Nast so build up your contacts.”
Finishing with a Q&A session, the evening offered an invaluable insight into the commercial and management side of fashion press.