We’re back with the latest episode of MAKING IT: Creative Careers Unlocked, and this month host Sadie Clayton is joined by Áine McCourt, CEO of contemporary jewellery brand Otiumberg.
In this episode, Áine shares her journey from sales associate to becoming the CEO of a growing fashion brand, offering an honest and refreshing perspective on leadership, career progression, and the many different routes into the fashion industry. Together, Áine and Sadie unpack what it really means to run a brand, beyond the product and why understanding the business side of fashion is just as important as creativity.
Áine speaks openly about her passion for the legal and operational side of fashion, explaining how contracts, structure, and strategic thinking play a vital role in helping creative brands grow sustainably. She reflects on how her early experiences on the shop floor shaped her understanding of customers, products, and brand values and how each step of her career helped prepare her for a leadership role.
The conversation also explores what it takes to become a CEO in fashion today, and the different qualities needed for success. Áine’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no single path to a creative career and that skills gained in unexpected places can become your greatest differentiator.
Watch the full conversation with Áine McCourt here and subscribe to MAKING IT: Creative Careers Unlocked for more real stories, career insights, and advice from across the creative industries.
About Otiumberg
Founded in London, Otiumberg is a contemporary jewellery brand known for its timeless design, thoughtful craftsmanship, and modern approach to luxury. The brand focuses on creating everyday pieces that feel both elevated and wearable, designed to last beyond trends.
With an emphasis on responsible sourcing and considered production, Otiumberg blends creativity with conscious business practices. The brand’s success is built not only on strong design, but on clear values, strategic leadership, and an understanding of how creativity and commerce work together.
Under Áine McCourt’s leadership, Otiumberg continues to grow while staying grounded in quality, integrity, and long-term vision; showing how modern fashion brands can balance creativity with smart, sustainable business decisions.
LCCA Life
At LCCA, we know that creative careers don’t always follow a straight line. That’s why we created MAKING IT: Creative Careers Unlocked – a series that highlights the many different roles, skills, and journeys that shape today’s creative industries.
Hosted by Sadie Clayton, LCCA’s Head of Industry Engagement and Partnerships, the series gives students access to real industry voices, from designers and pattern cutters to creative directors, CEOs, and business leaders, offering insight into how creative careers really work.
Our courses are built around industry experience, combining creative development with business understanding, professional practice, and employability skills. Through live briefs, placements, networking opportunities, and portfolio development, we support students in building careers that are sustainable, flexible, and future-focused.
All LCCA courses are awarded by our academic partner, the University for the Creative Arts (UCA).
At LCCA, we don’t just teach creativity – we help you turn it into a career.