After spending six years as a golf professional, Brad Franklin decided to combine his love for design and fashion with his passion for the sport, joining AUR Golf‘s team as the Head of Design. What’s his advice for other YPs? Find out in today’s Notable Young Professional profile…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the Head of Design at AUR Golf. AUR Golf is a Montreal-based golf apparel brand that emphasizes a refined modern aesthetic by using technical fabrics in a more sophisticated form. Our apparel is worn by golf professionals on both the PGA and LPGA Tours.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
I joined AUR Golf in November 2012. I took up the game of golf when I was eight years old. After spending six years as a golf professional, I decided to combine my love for design and fashion with my passion for the sport.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part of what I do on a day-to-day basis is being able to design products for a sport that I am extremely passionate about. From fabric sourcing trips to playing golf at some of the world’s most prestigious clubs, my career has taken me all around the world. The most challenging part of my day is living and working in different cities. I live in Toronto but my office is in Montreal. Whether I am taking the train or flying between the two cities, I take advantage of the time I spend travelling by catching up on emails or working on new designs.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
So much can happen in five years, it is difficult to tell. The one thing that is for sure is that I will be designing and developing great apparel.
What does success look like to you?
In my opinion, success looks balanced. I believe in finding a balance between having a fulfilled personal life and a meaningful and rewarding professional career.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The most memorable milestone in my career came when I earned my Class “A” designation from the PGA of Canada. I achieved this designation at the same time I was attending university full-time. It was a goal of mine to finish university without accumulating any debt and to be able to purchase my first home immediately after graduating…which I did!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
My advice to young professionals is to surround yourself with people who push you to become better and support your personal and professional growth. Always keep an eye on where you want your career to go. Never settle for working the same job day-in, day-out without any clear growth potential!
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Ever since one of my goddaughters required surgery at a young age, I have been a supporter of SickKids Foundation. Their efforts ensures that the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto continues to provide world-renowned paediatric care and improve the lives of sick children locally, nationally and globally.
What to you is notable?
I find it notable when someone acts with integrity, honesty and confidence.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone.