Knowing Me, Knowing You...
Or KMKY as it is now getting known.
This started off as a way of getting new members to know more about our committee and other members and we soon realised that knowing someone is not just about what they do and who they work for or supply - it's about the person. So we compiled a list of more personal questions some to be taken seriously and others er, less so. The answers have been fascinating and give a greater insight to the individual and even though we thought we knew each other very well it has been an enlightening process.
Here, we take just some of the questions and select those with the more interesting answers and we will publish a new one regularly - we hope you enjoy this as much as we do.
Mike Smith
Mike’s journey through menswear began when he left school and started working at the family store - Henry Taylors of Walthamstow. A wonderful introduction to the world of business and a foundation for what followed, not least because he enjoyed the opportunity to meet all sorts of fascinating characters.
He always dreamed of getting out on the road, his first job as a travelling salesman was at Ibex Belts. He was employed by a true icon of the trade, Mr Trevor Tompsett, who Mike says “was the ultimate professional and a great inspiration”. That experience led him to become a freelance agent, representing many fantastic brands and becoming aware of The 39 Club. He also says “Along the way, I continued meeting remarkable people and had the privilege of working with some of the best in the business”.
“It’s been a great industry to be part of – full of ups and downs, but always lively and rewarding. Looking back, I can honestly say I wouldn’t change a thing”.
Most memorable order?
14,000 pairs of Trousers for JLP
Favourite brand?
Paul Smith
Favourite song?
Fly me to the moon.
Do you have a tattoo?
Not yet.....
Worst habit?
Being too early.
Something you don't do well?
Ironing.
Do you play sports?
Yes, I Scuba, play Golf, Swim and use a gym
Something you are good at?
Talking!
Person you admire or admired?
Dare I say it today - Maggie Thatcher.
Favourite meal?
You can't beat a nice Sunday Roast.
Favourite holiday location?
I loved Scotland
Previous Knowing Me, Knowing You pieces..
Knowing Me, Knowing You...
Nigel is our current Chairman and is married to the lovely Sarah - seen here.
Nigel is 60 years old, lives in Dartford in Kent and owns NP Agency . He has a stunning showroom in Central London and Nigels main brands include:-
A Fish named Fred, Alberto, Ingram, Montechiaro, Milestone & Roy Robson
Click below for more.
Knowing Me, Knowing You...
Simon has been a passionate supporter and member of The 39 Club for many years and was on the committee until recently.
Simon is 62 years old, married to Joanne for 25yrs and has two children - Mae and George, and lives in Godmanchester. He owns the Heritage Brands Agency.
Click below for more..
Knowing Me, Knowing You...
Andrew, often known as Andy, worked for almost 46 years in the clothing industry from Jaytex Ltd to the NFL(US), Alpha Industries(US) to Merc., Sportswear and Heritage fashion specialist. Andy is retired now for almost 4 years.
Andy keeps abreast of all the Trade News keenly within The 39 Club, retaining the role of Social Secretary by very popular choice.
Next time you see him - ask about his time in a glam rock/new romantic band The Dumb Blondes....or click below for more..
Knowing Me, Knowing You...
For many of us Brian IS Mr Menswear.
With a history in our illustrious trade that goes back several decades, a passion for fashion, an eye for detail and a stickler for doing everything 'right' he is an important, if not vital, member of The 39 Club.
Semi retired now he is enjoying his time either at his lovely home or travelling, and keeping himself busy with the club and his other consultant role as Principal of 135 member strong buying group, IMC.
He describes himself as er, quite shy..
Knowing Me, Knowing You....
As a past Chair of The 39 Club and current Madam President, Kam has long be a strong supporter of the club. in the menswear trade she is very experienced, well respected and well liked - and we are pleased to have her around.
She is curently Sales Manager for Gabicci, a role she throroughly enjoys, and thrives on the challenges that she regularly faces. She has been there 40 years and sees the team as her second family.
She has two grown up children, Reena and Tanil, and two grandchildren, one who is nearly 4 and the other is only 6 months old. She says "I am lucky or unlucky depending on how you look at it, as I get to see them a lot as they live nearby in Stanmore, London".
Knowing Me, Knowing You...
Born in Barcelona Marc worked in media there from 1998 to 2014. He ended up managing a radio station and collaborating with national TV and Radio stations nearby. He and his wife then wanted a new challenge and moved to the UK. He dived into a new adventure in fashion marketing and eventually took over Double H Agency two years ago, and hasn't looked back since.
Happily now settled in the UK and with a lovely six-year-old daughter they love travelling as a family.
Passionate and enthusiastic about whatever he does and a huge supporter of The 39 Club - he is our human dynamo, and fondly known within the club as Squirrel.
