March Mentor Spotlight featuring Rachel V. Ivey
Background and Introduction
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your current role?
I am the founder and executive creative leader of Lola Says, a company I established in 2020 to provide innovative creative and marketing solutions to small independent brands. My journey began as a designer and product developer at Williams Sonoma. Over time, my role evolved into a leadership position, focusing more on being the driving force behind impactful ideas and brand-building strategies. This progression reflects my commitment to leading with creativity and vision in the dynamic world of marketing and design.
Career Journey
How have your career goals evolved over time?
My career goals have significantly evolved from my initial years as a designer, where I was content simply working in a field I loved. Life’s unpredictable nature has reshaped my path in unexpected ways. After a decade at Williams Sonoma, I faced a pivotal moment when I was let go during the 2008 recession. At that time, with a new baby, I had to rethink my career trajectory. This led me to take a significant leap by accepting a leadership role in Arkansas, far from San Francisco, as the Creative Director for Color and Trend for the world’s largest retailer. This position not only expanded my global perspective but also honed my expertise in influencing worldwide trends. Each subsequent role has enriched my skill set and fortified my confidence, propelling me to continually aim for greater achievements and ultimately to run my own company, Lola Says.
Daily Life and Skills
What skills do you consider essential for success in your field?
Networking is paramount in my field. Daily, I strive to cultivate a robust foundation of connections that can propel my career forward. While challenging, it is crucial to maintain these relationships. Life is unpredictable, but a strong network provides a reliable support system, ensuring resilience and continued growth in my career.
Advice and Inspiration
Are there any mentors or role models who have significantly influenced your career?
Throughout my career, nearly every individual I’ve worked with has left a mark on my professional journey. It’s been crucial for me to remain observant, absorbing both the positive and negative aspects of people, business practices, and strategies I encounter. This holistic approach has significantly shaped my perspective. The most influential mentors have been those who communicate openly and honestly, always with my best interests in mind. Their direct and clear guidance has been instrumental in my development as a leader.
Life Outside of Work
How do you manage work and life responsibilities, especially during busy or stressful periods?
Managing work and life responsibilities, especially during busy or stressful periods, requires a deliberate approach, given that I work from home and have a teenager in high school. Balance is crucial. I employ a team of designers for various projects, and maintaining clear boundaries and accountability is key to our collective success. I use time blocking on my calendar, setting specific goals for each period to ensure focused productivity. This method allows for distinct start and stop times, which helps me manage my responsibilities effectively while remaining fully present for both my work and my family.
Looking Ahead
How do you see your industry evolving in the next 5-10 years?
The design industry is poised for significant evolution over the next 5-10 years, primarily due to advancements in artificial intelligence. It is imperative for emerging designers to stay abreast of these technological developments. Understanding and integrating AI into their work will be crucial for staying relevant and innovative in the field. As AI continues to reshape how we approach design processes and problem-solving, adaptability and continuous learning will be key attributes for success in our industry.
Personal Insights
What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?
My proudest professional achievement has been the resilience and adaptability I’ve maintained throughout my career. As a woman of color in leadership roles, I’ve often navigated spaces where I was the sole representative of my demographic. This position has not come easily; it has required perseverance and determination, as opportunities were never just handed to me. My role has allowed me to pave the way for other women, particularly those of color, by championing diversity and inclusion within the workplace. I take great pride in having opened doors for others who might not have been considered otherwise, and in contributing to a more inclusive industry.
Fun and Light-hearted
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to remain humble. This advice doesn’t suggest diminishing one’s own abilities, but rather, using one’s strengths to elevate those around you. Throughout my leadership journey, I’ve embraced this philosophy by supporting and highlighting my team’s accomplishments. What I’ve come to realize later in my career is that when your team excels, it reflects positively on you as a leader. This approach not only fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment but also drives collective success.
Closing
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I would like our readers to remember that success is rarely a solo journey. It’s crucial to build a supportive network—think of it as your career “board of directors.” These are the people who will encourage you, offer guidance, and influence your professional path. Alongside this, it’s vital to believe in yourself and always trust your instincts. These principles have guided me throughout my career, and I hope they will inspire you as you forge your own path.
Where can our readers follow your work or connect with you?
rachelivey.com
@iveydesign on Instagram and Rachel V. Ivey on Linkedin