NATIONAL: Fashion Group International (FGI) Sydney has announced industry consultant Serena Beirne as its new Regional Director Elect for 2010.
Beirne, a founding partner of Australian Fashion Partners, will replace outgoing FGI Sydney director Sue Ellen Mackintosh-Dixon. Under her new role, Beirne will be responsible for co-ordinating FGI's Australian operations, including networking and education events. Beirne will also be responsible for representing Australia at FGI's annual Regional Director's Conference in New York.
"2009 has been a tough year for the Australian fashion industry," Beirne said.
"Innovative design and solid business practices are the way forward for the Australian industry. I am committed to the FGI ethos of working to build intelligent fashion businesses."
Beirne said she also hopes to broaden FGI's membership base and industry reach during her tenure.
"I see my job with FGI is to expand our presence in Queensland, Perth and Melbourne over the next three years to achieve the same strong membership figures we enjoy in Sydney. FGI's strength is in numbers as we can learn from our peers."
In her role as head consultant at AFP, Beirne has worked with the likes of Mambo, Peeptoe Shoes, Gary Bigeni, Mr. Rose, Vanguard and Katelyn Aslett. Beirne is also heavily active in mentoring programs and government initiatives, including the AusIndustry Textile, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) Small Business Program.
FGI is a worldwide, non-profit professional organisation for the fashion apparel, accessories, beauty and home furnishing industries. The organisation aims to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to help its members become more effective in their careers.