In the latest episode of our webinar series, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Michelle Shuttleworth, a dynamic force in the world of finance and a passionate advocate for sustainable fashion. Her career trajectory is nothing short of remarkable, having transitioned from traditional corporate roles to pioneering entrepreneurial ventures, all while maintaining a focus on purpose-driven work. As the current CFO of the Francis Crick Institute and the founder of the sustainable clothing line Boa Wool, Michelle exemplifies the integration of professional success with personal values.
Michelle’s journey began with her decision to become a chartered accountant after studying at the London School of Economics. Her early career at PwC laid a solid foundation, where she specialized in financial services advisory and mergers and acquisitions. This experience paved the way for her to enter more creative roles, such as at Virgin Entertainment. Here, Michelle experienced a shift from a corporate environment to a more relaxed, creative one, which broadened her perspective and honed her adaptability. This adaptability was crucial during her time at Burberry, where she worked under Angela Ahrendts, learning valuable lessons in cash flow planning and margin management during a transformative period for the brand.
A significant part of Michelle’s career was spent at the BBC, where she refined her skills in finance transformation and governance. Her work emphasized maximizing value and success within public and philanthropic contexts, reinforcing her belief in mission-led organizations. The unique governance model of the BBC provided a rich learning environment, where she led initiatives to enhance management information and analytics. This role taught her the importance of aligning personal values with professional pursuits, a theme that has consistently guided her career decisions.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Michelle’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Boa Wool, a clothing line rooted in sustainability and British craftsmanship. Her passion for fashion and commitment to environmental responsibility drive the brand’s ethos. Boa Wool emphasizes durability and slow fashion, reflecting Michelle’s desire to create meaningful, lasting products. Her journey in sustainable fashion showcases how professional skills and personal values can intersect to create a purposeful business.
Michelle’s ability to balance her career and family life is a testament to her dedication and resilience. As a mother of four, she navigates the complexities of work-life balance with grace, emphasizing the importance of flexible working arrangements and pursuing personal passions. Her story inspires listeners to view work as an integral part of life, rather than a separate entity, encouraging a holistic approach to personal and professional commitments.
Throughout the episode, Michelle reflects on the evolving role of accountants in the era of machine learning, highlighting the need for a deep understanding of business operations to identify risks and ensure sustainability. She discusses the significance of connecting daily tasks to the larger mission of an organization, enhancing employee engagement and retention. Her insights into the not-for-profit sector reveal the potential for accountants to make a meaningful impact, particularly in mission-driven organizations.
Michelle’s narrative is one of adaptability, passion, and purpose. Her journey from finance to fashion illustrates the power of aligning personal values with professional pursuits, offering a wealth of inspiration for those seeking to integrate purpose into their careers and personal lives. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a finance professional, or someone interested in sustainable fashion, Michelle’s story provides valuable lessons in resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of a meaningful legacy.
