Florsheim VP Beverly Goldberg is committed to ensuring women have a strong voice in the shoe industry as a WIFI mentor. Having successfully navigated a leadership position at a brand otherwise known for its men’s products, Goldberg shares her experiences as she’s moved up the executive ranks.
Lessons learned: “I’ve had mentors who’ve been both men and women, and the message has always been the same: Be dedicated, work hard and ask questions.”
Role reversal: “I’ve learned tremendous amounts from the women I’ve mentored who’ve had roles in wholesale, design [as well as] entrepreneurs themselves. I’m in my mid-50s and mentored women in their late 20s to early 30s. I try to help them network by hooking them up with [industry members] who can be [of help] to them.”
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Challenges facing women: “Some of the women I’ve mentored were married with children and trying to figure out a [home and work balance]. Some had been in [professional] situations where they felt their voices weren’t heard. [Perhaps] they weren’t as forceful as they should have been. They [need] a more aggressive voice.”
Best advice I’ve received: “Find a career you enjoy, and it won’t seem like work. I’ve enjoyed the footwear industry, and it’s been good to me.”
