Ragtrader Fashion Industry Award winner and head of digital product at Showpo, Mitul Lakhani details his career thus far.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I got my start in the industry at Marks & Spencer on their graduate scheme back in 2008, where I learnt my trade in online retail and digital products.
From there I moved on to Asos which at the time was going through hyper growth, and it's here that I truly felt at home in this industry.
It's these experiences that have led me to where I am today at Showpo.
What are the challenges in your role and how do you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I face in my role is ensuring that we are working on and delivering the right things, at the right time, that makes sense, not only for our customers but also for Showpo.
Ideas are always endless and everything needs to be done now.
I'm sure this is a case for many readers out there.
There are a number of prioritisation techniques you can use that can help but be sure that you're armed with insights being quantitative or qualitative that back this up. It's not just opinion.
The key to this is then how you approach communicating and managing the expectations of your peers and stakeholders.
It's a process that constantly evolves alongside your business and the people within it.
So there really isn't a silver bullet.
What project stands out as a highlight in your career?
A project that really stands out for me is introducing editorial content to Asos.
This is something that has now become a staple amongst many brands but back in 2013, this was a first for an eCommerce site.
The additional feature has since evolved and taken many shapes and forms however, it definitely stands out as one of my highlights because it set the tone for everyone else in the industry.
What is one piece of business advice you’ve been given that sticks with you today?
A couple of bits of advice have really stuck with me over the course of my career.
Firstly, do not be afraid of making mistakes. Every mistake is a lesson learned.
And secondly, be happy in what you do.
The last thing anyone wants to do in their career is be stuck in something they do not enjoy.
My happiness generally stems from personal development. The moment that stops is probably the moment I asked myself if I’m too comfortable in the role that I’m performing.
Do not be afraid of change, embrace it.