Fellows Spring/Summer 2024

Katriona Flynn

Fellow, Lecturer School of Art and Design

Katriona Flynn is an award-winning lecturer in Fashion and Luxury Goods. She graduated with a BA in Fashion from The National College of Art and Design in Dublin, in 2012 she completed her MA from the acclaimed Central Saint Martin’s College, London

Before focusing her career in academia, she worked with the design and product teams of some of the world’s most prestigious fashion brands Burberry, Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood, she also undertook roles with William Yeoward and at URBN INC brands Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters. She has lectured at the London College of Fashion for a number of years and has guest lecturer at Central Saint Martins, London College of Contemporary Arts, Fashion Retail Academy, London and at the National College of Art and Design, Dublin.

As an academic, she is dedicated to the encouragement and nurturing of creative talent and learners. She is undertaking a PhD at the University of Arts London, exploring the theme of motherhood and the creative industries.

Enterprise Academy Fellowship Project

Exploring Irish Fashion Retailers' Navigation of the University-Enterprise Ecosystem

This fellowship project addressed skill gaps within the Irish fashion retail industry, particularly focusing on Sustainability and Ethical practices. The primary objective was to develop educational initiatives to equip industry workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement sustainable solutions and prepare for impending legislative changes. The Irish fashion industry, steeped in cultural heritage and socio-economic evolution, has dynamically transitioned into a modern, vibrant sector central to Ireland's economy. The landscape of Irish fashion retail has significantly evolved with the emergence of affordable fashion retailers, democratising fashion consumption and shaping consumer behaviour. This evolution underscores the need for sustainability and ethical practices, reflecting global trends and consumer expectations. The research highlighted a strong emphasis on career development and progression opportunities. Employees expressed frustration with slow progression and unclear career trajectories, underscoring the importance of upskilling and training to retain talent. There is a strong demand for upskilling in sustainability, with 73.3% of survey participants expressing interest in further training. Areas of interest included legislation, new technologies, and contextualising industry challenges. An educational initiative would aim to bridge this gap, equipping employees with the skills to innovate and implement sustainable practices. This strategic intervention would not only prepare the workforce for legislative changes but also enhance the industry's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices measurably through assessment and accreditation. Importantly the proposed accredited educational initiatives would benefit employees' career paths for progression and growth and would also allow the opportunity to consider spiral as well as linear career paths, which may also benefit the business and the changing landscape. The possibility of spiral career opportunities fulfilling employees’ aspirations was a significant finding. The Irish fashion retail industry faces significant challenges in aligning with sustainability and ethical standards. Addressing skill gaps through targeted accredited educational programs is crucial for navigating these challenges. By fostering a well-trained and knowledgeable workforce, the industry can ensure sustainable growth and maintain its competitive edge in the global market.