Inspirational speaker and award winning entrepreneur, Julie Deane, is in much demand for a wide range of International events. With just £600 to her name and the unerring support of her mother, Julie succeeded in creating a business worth £50 million in just under 5 years. In 2022 Julie sold the company to Charguers, the French textiles giant and has a CBE for services to entrepreneurship and manufacturing.  Julie is the founder and former CEO of The Cambridge Satchel Company – known globally not just a retailer but a manufacturing power house and and A-list celebrity endorsed brand.

Background:

Her story started through the necessity to raise the funds to put her children through private school after her then eight year old daughter Emily was being bullied. Julie resolved to start a business manufacturing satchels, and so “The Cambridge Satchel Company” was born. The inspiration for the stunningly made satchels comes from the Harry Potter novels her children were reading at the time. They asked if they could have a traditional leather satchel like those mentioned in the book. When both Julie and her mother recognised that the design of satchel was particularly rare, they spotted a gap in the market. Their innovation was swiftly followed by a mention in The Guardian gift guide and an iconic spot on a Google Chrome advert. The bags are now cherished by fashion editors, designers and celebrities.  Julie  is currently the only woman to have won Entrepreneur of the Year in the European Business Awards.

Inspirational speaker:

Julie’s humble and down to earth approach appeals to a broad sector of people. Whether it be senior leaders, middle managers or budding entrepreneurs, her message always lands well.  She talks passionately about her will to succeed as well as her understanding of the power of both social and digital media. Julie is one of only a few motivational speakers who can transcend generations.  She is perfect for empowering people and uplifting an audience.

Julie’s speaking topics include: Branding, Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Creativity, Leadership, Retail, Self-Belief, The Power of Social Media, Women In Business.

Feedback on her presentations includes:

“We were thrilled to hear from Julie Deane CBE, the founder of Cambridge Satchel Company, who shared her inspirational journey of establishing the business; the importance of resilience and remaining focused on her core values; and how she navigated the challenges she faced long the way – and turned these into opportunities.”  Restructuring Director PwC 2022

“What a great evening it was networking, celebrating successes and listening to Julie and hearing about her fantastic journey!” Director Surveying Standards, RICS 2022

“Such an inspiring journey from Julie Deane.”  Joint MD UK & Europe, DLA Piper UK LLP 2022

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