Another Interview - From the middle men of the Shoe Industry

[The Shoe Snob]

Dear all, Here is yet another interview for those interested in understanding what goes on behind-the-scenes within the shoe industry. Here, I have interviewed Giovanni Gambini, a man we all have to thank for many of the Italian shoes that we find in the States, such as Silvano Sassetti. I hope that you enjoy this different yet informative view of the industry. All the best, Justin http://the-shoe-snob.blogspot.com/2011/03/giovanni-gambini-interview-middle-men.html Questions & Snippet: 1. What exactly is it that you do? 2. How long have you been in the shoe industry? 3. What brought you into the shoe industry? 4. How many factories do you have relationships with? 5. What's the most difficult part of your job? 6. What's the most satisfying part of your job? 7. Looking back at when you first got into the shoe industry, how does what you are doing now compare to what you thought you would be doing after this many years in the industry? 8. What are some of the pitfall's of today that you have seen in the shoe industry? How has it changed from 20 years ago? 9. Who is your favorite non-Italian shoemaker/shoe company? 10. What are your aspirations for 10 years down the line? Q1 Answer: I work as agent, protecting the interests of the company that hires me as an agent to follow their work/business with factory/factories in Italy and I make sure that the footwear that they order is made in full respect of agreements stipulated, ie: for quality, attention to detail, materials and components and that the delivery is made respecting the terms specified on the orders themselves. My function however is not limited to this aspect alone – in fact, I start by researching suitable factories that meet the qualifications that I know my customer requires – such as: adequate financing-sound financial position, ability to do the type of product that my customer requires, pricing in line with what is necessary for my client. Between placement of orders and delivery we monitor the various stages of production, do a final quality control, follow through with shipping and all documentation necessary for customs and to proceed with payment. Q2 Answer: I started working in the shoe industry in the late ‘60’s and I have continued since then with the exception of an interval of about 4 years spent in the United States during which time I worked for GUCCI in their Beverly Hills store.