Genus
What accessory or piece of jewelry can’t you leave the house without and why?
Quite ephemeral, I never leave without perfume.
What moment in your career has had the greatest impact on you?
The Mechanical Exception prize that rewarded our GNS1.2 WG model at last November’s GPHG ceremony. It is wonderful to be able to highlight and sell something with which one is so closely and proudly engaged.
Which cause do you view as most important?
I try to help and take action as much as possible at my level, for example, by involving GENUS in promoting responsible global standards for the industry.
Who is the person who has influenced you the most and why?
Figures who bring a disruptive touch, and when it comes to women I would say Coco Chanel and more personally some of my former CEOs who have become my mentors, particularly one lady.
What advice would you give to women who want to work in this industry?
Hard work always pays off. Trust yourself. Don’t panic when you make mistakes; if you don’t know something, find the information you need; and surround yourself with people who have the skills you may lack.
TAG Heuer
What accessory or piece of jewelry can’t you leave the house without and why?
My big glasses. They naturally correct my eyesight, but big frames are kind of my signature.
What moment in your career has had the greatest impact on you?
Probably my first meeting with Jack Heuer. I was very impressed and greatly moved by his energy, strength and love of life.
Which cause do you view as most important?
The cause of women, our struggles large and small.
Who is the person who has influenced you the most and why?
In the course of my career I would single out Valerie Servageon, a true leader and a charismatic, inspirational woman who made me want to follow in her footsteps and undertake great things.
What advice would you give to women who want to work in this industry?
Learn, never stop learning, and trust your instincts.
Dubai Watch Week
What accessory or piece of jewelry can’t you leave the house without and why?
I have two things that I can’t leave the house without – a watch and a pair of earrings.
What moment in your career has had the greatest impact on you?
I have been working for almost 15 years now and there are a few moments that I consider to be almost career defining. One such moment was the establishment of Dubai Watch Week which is a home-grown event pioneered by my family and our internal teams.
Which cause do you view as most important?
There are so many, but if I had to choose one, it would be the importance of empowering my team and teamwork. Everything is much more rewarding and smoother with a group of people who share your passion.
Who is the person who has influenced you the most and why?
My father: he has always been a big influence on how we carry ourselves, how we interact with others and how to manage & pre-empt situations.
What advice would you give to women who want to work in this industry?
I believe we are vital to this industry; it may be male dominated, but I feel that women bring an exceptional perspective within the industry. This is especially true when it comes to storytelling and driving emotions, especially since a lot of people view the industry as otherwise too rigid.
Christie's
What accessory or piece of jewelry can’t you leave the house without and why?
My Art Deco engagement ring and my watch, which was a birthday present that Christie’s Private Sales sourced for my 45th birthday.
What moment in your career has had the greatest impact on you?
I’m proud to see our Christie’s Luxury Week concept is now an important calendar highlight for our collectors.
Which cause do you view as most important?
From the Jewellery department, we were delighted to present the Diamonds that Care: A Charity Auction of jewels designed by Anna Hu to support the families of healthcare workers who lost their lives while fighting tirelessly against the pandemic.
Who is the person who has influenced you the most and why?
I’m the most grateful to those who helped me see things from a different angle: my father in terms of my ethnicity, my mother about my ambition, my siblings with regards to tolerance, and my children when it comes to love and patience.
What advice would you give to women who want to work in this industry?
Follow your instinct and not the so-called perfect career plan. Seize every opportunity, from a role that can foster your growth, to a potential chance to work abroad.
