Elizabeth Brownstein is a 29-year-old distributor of high-end intimate apparel based out of Montreal. At UMI, Liz focuses her talents on growing the company – to which she has strong family roots – and credits working with her female clients as one of the best parts of her day-to-day. Find out more about this McGill University and NYU grad in today’s YPDaily.
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
UMI focuses on bringing high-end intimate apparel to the Canadian market. Whether it is beautiful lingerie, slimming and smoothing shapewear, or colourful and playful underwear, our aim is to make women feel their best. Our brands include: Cosabella, La Perla, and Claridge + King.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
Working at UMI allowed me to continue a family tradition in the industry while breathing new life into an existing business. When I came on board, we took the company in a new direction: distributing high-end global brands in Canada.
Do you plan on starting your own company in the same industry one day?
I plan to continue to grow this company, which feels like my own.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I really enjoy working with my clients. We’ve had such positive reactions from women because they feel good and sexy in our products – which I love! The most challenging part is managing all the unforeseen circumstances that arise in this business.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Expanding the business into new areas; I am always keeping my eye out for new products or brands to introduce to the Canadian market.
What does success look like to you?
Knowing that I have worked hard and brought as much to the business as I can. Maintaining great relationships with my clients and making women happy.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
I’ll let you know when I hit it!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
I would say that it is important to be resourceful and flexible. I have learned that I can’t control everything so it is important to adapt and figure out the best way to approach unexpected challenges.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
UMI supports a number of charities. I support various women’s shelters in Montreal and Table of Hope, which raises money for Share the Warmth.
What is Notable to you?
Leaving a positive and (hopefully) lasting impression.