Get to know Jennifer Yiu! She’s an important part of Blowfish Malibu and plays a major role in ensuring we are a happy and fruitful business!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT BLOWFISH MALIBU:
Hi, I’m Jennifer Yiu and I am the CFO (chief financial officer) for Blowfish Malibu but I also handle HR-related tasks when needed.
WHEN DID YOU FIRST BECOME INTERESTED IN YOUR FIELD?
Ever since high school, I knew I wanted to be in the Finance field because I love numbers. After graduating from college, I knew this field would be my career.
WHAT DID YOU DO PREVIOUSLY BEFORE JOINING BLOWFISH MALIBU?
I worked for an apparel company prior to joining the team. I have also worked in real estate and in the office leasing industry. All of these roles were in the finance and accounting field.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED WITH BLOWFISH MALIBU?
I actually have a long history with Blowfish Malibu. I was initially hired shortly after the company was moved to California from New Jersey. At the time, I was looking for other career opportunities and a recruiter contacted me and everything just fell in to place. After a few years of working at Blowfish Malibu, I decided to pursue another position in the apparel industry. Nevertheless, you just never know where life can take you. The opportunity came up at Blowfish Malibu a few years later and I once again became a part of the team. It felt as if I never left!
WHAT PROJECTS HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING ON THAT YOU’RE EXCITED ABOUT?
I have been involved in various projects in areas of operations, finance, and HR. Often I get to review, assess, and create processes to help each department run more efficiently and this is always fun and interesting. This particular part of my role gives me opportunities to work closely with people from different departments.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT WORKING IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
Seeing firsthand what upcoming fashion trends are on the horizon before the end consumer is definitely always fun. I also love learning about the design process, and find the designers’ work behind creating a line really fascinating!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
The people! Since we are a small team, learning how to work with each other is important. Some co-workers have become just like family!
THE BLOWFISH MALIBU OFFICES ARE IN LOS ANGELES, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE CITY?
The melting pot of various cultures is my favorite!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE WHO’S TRYING TO PURSUE THE SAME CAREER AS YOU?
I’d say, take time and build a solid foundation. There are many industries out there but the principle for finance/accounting is the same. As long as you have a solid foundation, you have the ability to adapt and learn from various industries which is great exposure for career advancement.
JUST FOR FUN
What was the last thing you were obsessed with?
My 32 oz Hydro Cell water bottle. It keeps me on track of water intake!
Where are you from and how has that shaped you?
I was born in Taiwan and immigrated to Thailand when I was 12. I then came to California for college. Living in different countries and being exposed to various cultures has definitely helped me make certain decisions in life and also made it easier for me to adapt to any challenges that are thrown my way.
What’s your dream travel destination?
Maldives
If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?
Will Smith
When do you feel best about yourself?
After I exercised and danced. I love a good workout!
What’s your personal motto?
If you believe in yourself, you can do anything. Don’t ever be afraid of making mistakes because sometimes that is the best way to learn and grow.
What’s a fun fact about you most people don’t know?
I’m not sure if this is a fun fact but I own a food truck, Tainamite. It has been a long journey and it is definitely an experience!
FILL IN THE BLANKS!
I learn the most from: experience
I can’t live without: my family & friends
You can find me shopping at: Amazon
My astrological sign is: Scorpio
I’m scared of: Cockroaches
The last book I read was: 7 habits of highly effective people
Most people would say I’m: Quiet
I’m currently listening to: Justin Bieber, Intentions
My style mantra is: anything comfortable
I feel most comfortable in: T-shirt, flip flops and shorts
When I woke up today I felt: A new day, another week! (It’s Monday)
Most people don’t know: I am a dance teacher
I feel the best when: I feel I have accomplished something, whether it’s something small or big
Thank you, Jennifer Yiu! We’ll catch up with you soon.
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