Jane Smith, the former group director of brand licensing and gaming at Endemol Shine, is the new Chief Content Officer at youth fashion brand Junk Kouture.
Smith says she will be focused on growing the brand in a sustainable manner that helps lower carbon emissions.
The industry veteran will oversee the global expansion of Junk Kouture and its commercial strategy. Junk Kouture produces and distributes content through various channels, organizes live events and sells consumer products based on its brand.
It encompasses a community of more than 350,000 aspiring artists, designers, engineers and supporters, and describes itself as the world’s largest youth sustainability event. It is preparing to expand the initiative into 13 cities around the world over the next two years.
Using only recycled materials, students are challenged to envision, design, create and model wearable haute couture styled from everyday junk with the ultimate goal of qualifying for a spot in a Junk Kouture grand final.
“With its vision to enrich and empower the lives of young people across the world, through creativity and sustainability, the impact we can have on climate change is real,” Smith said.
Smith was responsible for driving the commercialisation of digital brands and formats including Masterchef, Big Brother, Peaky Blinders, Black Mirror, Mr Bean and Simon’s Cat during her time at Endemol Shine, which became part of Banijay Group last year.
She relocated to Dublin in 2014 and was employed as a consultant by Endemol Shine Group, advising on the merger of Endemol and Shine. Smith then joined Endemol Shine and was quickly promoted to group director of brand licensing and gaming.
Smith previously worked in a senior role at TwoFour54, an Abu Dhabi government initiative established to lead the development of the nascent media industry. She held a senior role as executive director of financing, distribution and talent development, including the establishment of a media training academy.
Smith has also previously worked with Goldcrest Films & TV, Video Arts Television, The Jim Henson Company, Hit Entertainment, Sunbow Entertainment and Flextech Television.
“With over 20 years’ experience in the media and entertainment industry, Jane Smith has an impressive reputation and brings a wealth of experience to drive Junk Kouture’s global roadmap,” said Troy Armour, CEO of Junk Kouture.
“Jane has worked in several of our new markets throughout her career and our growing team welcomes Jane’s knowledge and determination to bring Junk Kouture to international participants and audiences.”