Laura Toledano, a prominent figure in the fashion sector, shares her unconventional career journey marked by adaptability and passion for learning. Emphasizing the value of authentic leadership and networking, she highlights the challenges women face in corporate environments. Toledano advocates for boldness and self-assertion while promoting a management style rooted in creativity and collaboration. Her experiences reflect a commitment to authenticity, encouraging others to embrace their true selves and continuously evolve in their professional paths.
Laura Toledano: A Journey of Authentic Leadership
“I’ve never had a rigid career plan, and that’s precisely what I enjoy,” shares Laura Toledano, a trailblazer in the fashion industry. Her remarkable journey began with a preparatory class followed by studies at ESSEC. She initially ventured into commercial real estate before spending nine fruitful years at Monoprix. Drawn to the digital world, she later joined Monshowroom.com, one of the pioneers in e-commerce, before taking on the role of CEO for Zalando in France, the UK, and Ireland.
“At each juncture, it was the opportunities and projects that inspired me,” she reflects on her career path. “I thrive in environments where I can learn and grow. Often, it’s the connections I make that fuel my passion; engaging with diverse perspectives is what truly enriches me.” With her warm demeanor and vibrant energy, Laura possesses an infectious smile and an unwavering drive to create impact.
The Power of Networking and Authenticity
For Laura, the significance of networking cannot be overstated. “Participating in juries, attending events, or simply engaging in conversations is crucial. These experiences allow for reflection, spark creativity, and recharge your spirit. Even interactions with competitors can be enlightening. Without them, life would be mundane!” emphasizes the Zalando CEO.
“As you ascend within a company, the representation of women diminishes,” she observes. When approached to join Zalando, Laura was pregnant with her third child, a fact she chose to embrace during the hiring process. Conducting interviews via video during the Covid era, she made it clear from the outset, stating, “I refused to conceal my situation.” Her honesty was met with an exemplary response from Zalando, who valued her skills and vision over her personal circumstances.
Laura is acutely aware of the challenges women face in securing leadership roles and the cultural biases that often impede their progress. “It’s evident that as you climb the corporate ladder, the presence of women becomes increasingly scarce. This is an issue that urgently needs addressing,” she stresses.
“Leadership is about being authentic.” Laura believes it is vital for women to assert themselves and feel confident in their roles. “Often, we hesitate to stand our ground; we hold back,” she insists. Despite facing obstacles and doubts throughout her career, she views leadership as a commitment to authenticity—being true to one’s values without conforming to external expectations.
Her personal journey exemplifies this philosophy. “I’ve never aspired to a particular company or position. My goal is to grow, learn, and enjoy the journey. That’s what drives me, and I endeavor to instill this mindset in my teams,” she explains.
According to Laura, effective management requires active listening and a willingness to be challenged. “I appreciate when my teams push me to reconsider my views. It’s in those moments that we evolve together,” she notes.
“Be bold! Claim your space; no one will do it for you.” Laura embodies a leadership style that prioritizes humanity and collaboration. Her message? “Be bold! Claim your space; no one will do it for you. And most importantly, remain authentic. Listen to your inner voice! Authenticity is a powerful asset. There’s nothing more impactful than understanding who you are and what message you wish to convey.”
In an ever-changing environment, Laura advocates for a management approach centered on creativity, authenticity, and continuous learning. “Being a manager doesn’t mean having all the answers. It’s about asking the right questions, listening, and empowering talent to unveil their full potential.”
Through her leadership style, Laura Toledano inspires a new wave of leaders in the challenging fashion industry landscape, demonstrating that ambition can coexist with simplicity, and that management transcends mere results to become a shared human experience.
Catch her complete interview in our video above.