Francesca Mangano, Office Manager, UK © MADE-BY

‘I developed an interest in ethical and sustainable fashion and started being involved in the Fair Trade movement when I moved to Manchester from Italy, to complete a year abroad for my degree in Modern Languages and Literature.

My academic background is in Linguistics, with a short spell in Law, but I have been involved in the sustainable fashion movement since 2004, when I landed an administrative role at People Tree, the pioneering ethical brand focusing on Fair Trade and organic fashion.

My role within the company soon changed to a more senior one when I was promoted to Mail Order manager. During my six years there I developed an extensive knowledge of eco fabrics and azo-free dying processes, the sustainable supply chain mechanisms and generally how a Fair Trade business model operates. I found the whole experience extremely fascinating and enlightening.

When I decided to take a short career break to decide what to do next, I felt compelled to continue to be part of the sustainable fashion movement that supports producer groups in their effort towards economical independence, protect the environment and use natural resources sustainably throughout the entire supply chain.

Joining MADE-BY last June couldn’t have happened at a better moment, and I look forward to embark on a new adventure with such an inspiring organisation and label.’