Nick Eley

Nick Eley is now the Head of Digital Creation at ASOS, however he didn’t take a conventional route into the world of fashion in the beginning as he moved into higher education.

An early change of direction

Nick’s journey initially started with a degree in Business and Economics, and it was actually through helping a friend with their course work that he discovered his passion for creativity, fashion and design.

With a keen interest and wanting to explore options for routes into this field he spoke to Fiona Hawthorn, Senior Lecturer in Fashion and Textiles. This conversation confirmed that he was making the right decision and that a change in direction was in fact the right path to take. This change turned out to be a pivotal decision which set him on an incredible journey. 

Nick initially transferred onto a Foundation programme which then led to the Fashion Design Degree. The course was the perfect choice providing everything from pattern cutting to technical drawing and CAD.

The value of industry experience

It also provided the opportunity to take a placement year which Nick took advantage of and which he credits as being a real gamechanger in shaping his career progression.

To secure placement opportunities he had to develop networking skills, engaging with final year students returning from their placements to leverage connections with the contacts they had made. This resulted in Nick securing two placements, one with a family owned company Burro and the other with Topman – two very different but equally valuable positions, that opened up more connections in the wider creative professional environment.

Take every opportunity

Capitalising on every opportunity that presented itself Nick also took the opportunity to join an exchange programme with a university in Finland, spending three months there gaining experience in accessories and footwear which extended beyond the design and into the manufacturing process. He also entered a national Royal Society of Arts bursary competition, going through a rigorous process that saw him get through to the final in London and winning one of the two prizes – a paid sixth month placement at John Lewis that he could take up following the completion of his studies.

Nick credits the opportunities he took full advantage of on his placement year with energising and inspiring him as he moved into his final year of study, as well as providing valuable connections that he drew on to create his final year collection.

Achieving success

Nick spent time with John Lewis, then moved back to Topman where he was able to create valuable links with the British Fashion Council, gaining experience at London Fashion Week whilst also travelling internationally when stores opened in New York and Tokyo.

Having moved into a leadership role as Menswear Designer at Topman Nick decided it was time to expand horizons further with a move to ASOS, taking up the position of Head of Design. His current role covers New Technology Innovations and how they can be delivered to improve efficiency and creativity.

Advice for students and early career starters

Nick provides invaluable advice to students and individuals taking the first step of their career journey. He encourages students to extend their networks, including connecting with final year students and alumni. Nick also recommends keeping up to date with the latest technology, as digital skills are crucial in many sectors, and seizing all opportunities available. 

"There’s no right or wrong way, you can carve your own journey aligned to your passions. When you have an opportunity, make sure you shine and make yourself indispensable once you get a foot in the door. Show willing and initiative, and don’t sit there doing nothing, search out opportunities."

Nick reflects on his time at the university and expresses his gratitude to the immense support he received at Derby. He emphasises the importance of education and encourages all to seize opportunities, as they may lead to incredible paths.

"I wouldn’t be where I am without the education, experiences and support I received as a Derby undergraduate. I would encourage anyone to be open to new opportunities and taking new paths, because you never know where they might lead."

Connecting through the Opening Doors Campaign

The Opening Doors Campaign helps University of Derby alumni stay connected with former classmates, professors, and the university itself. As part of the campaign, Nick had the opportunity to share his career journey with current students.

"I think the Opening Doors Campaign is a great initiative, helping to connect alumni and current students. I recently joined a curriculum session with a cohort of final year students, where I was invited to share insight into my career path. It was very rewarding to hear how much they appreciated the experience, and how timely it was as the students began to consider the next stage of their journey."