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Julie Mathers

Founder, Flora & Fauna

Tell us about where you work and what you do there.

Founder and CEO of Flora & Fauna — I founded Flora & Fauna in 2014 and we are now Australia’s largest eco store.

How would you describe yourself?

I am a purpose-driven human in and out of work. I believe in transparency and inclusion and I am a big advocate for disability awareness. I live in Sydney, Australia with my wonderful husband, gorgeous baby boys, and plenty of furry friends too. I also love running, skiing, diving, and nature.

What drew you to entrepreneurship?

I know myself really well and I knew that I would be much better being my own boss. I’d hate to manage me — I am a dog with a bone and will not let anything lie! Starting something means I have been able to create the business, purpose, values, and culture that I have always wanted. That has driven me and our business forward and I have loved it.

I am a purpose-driven human in and out of work.

Julie Mathers

Founder, Flora & Fauna
Julie Mathers

What do you think has been your biggest professional success so far?

Starting a business with nothing more than some savings I had, never getting investors, then this business being acquired 6+ years later. I started F&F wanting to build a business so amazing that someone else might want to invest in it. Then when someone wants to buy the whole thing, it really is a kick yourself moment.

What goals do you have for 2022?

It has been a huge eight years for me in starting F&F and growing it. I haven’t had a break and in that time I’ve had two babies — for each I had hours of mat leave, not even days. So 2022 is about giving myself a little bit of self-care. I want to be able to get fit and healthy again — I used to run marathons and I would like to be able to do that properly again. If i could run a marathon in a decent time by the end of the year, I’ll be very happy!
I have plenty of work goals, too!

What do you think is the next big trend in eCommerce?

As they say the oldies are the goodies. Get better at experience. It’s all about the experience.

Name an eCommerce brand you admire and why.

Allbirds. They have started and grown a billion-dollar business and retained, and built on their brand, purpose, and values. I admire everything they do.

What do you geek out over?

Wine, tennis, Formula 1 — yep, none of it is work-related, I’m afraid.