Jocelyn Strutt
Jocelyn Strutt is a seasoned branding and business development professional based in Nashville, Tennessee, with extensive experience in the apparel and fashion industry. She specializes in creating alternative revenue streams, building international business partnerships, and streamlining operational protocols to maximize efficiency. Throughout her career, Jocelyn has demonstrated a strong ability to evaluate complex challenges and deliver high-impact solutions across a range of stakeholders, thriving in fast-paced, public-facing environments. Her career trajectory includes leadership roles that include licensing and global business development positions at Kenneth Cole, Ben Sherman, Coach, Robert Graham, Psycho Bunny and recently consulting engagements with prominent Nashville-based clothiers. Jocelyn’s expertise spans product development, branding and identity, legal assistance, and organizational management, with a proven record of aligning brand vision with strategic execution to drive growth and strengthen partnerships. She is also a licensed health and wellness agent in Tennessee, further reflecting her versatility and commitment to professional excellence. Jocelyn holds a Master of Studies in Law (MSL) in Fashion Law from Fordham University School of Law, where she was recognized with the Fashion Law M.S.L. Award for her academic excellence and engagement. She has also completed a certificate in Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School Online. Jocelyn is frequently invited as a speaker and panelist on topics related to intellectual property, brand licensing, and business development in fashion, combining her legal knowledge with practical industry experience to mentor and inspire others.
• Fordham University School of Law - MSL
• Fashion Law M.S.L. Award
What do you attribute your success to?
When I reflect on my three decades in the fashion industry, I attribute my success to a combination of curiosity, continuous learning, and meaningful connections. My career began at Ralph Lauren, immersing me in the world of high fashion, and later led me to Jones Apparel Group, where I specialized in brand licensing. Along the way, I navigated the complexities of intellectual property, launched a successful men’s fragrance at Bloomingdale’s, and earned a master’s degree in fashion law—an education that continues to shape how I approach branding, liability, and creative innovation. Today, I manage a retail store for the B Corp brand Faherty in Nashville, Tennessee. My work centers on engaging directly with customers, educating them about sustainable fashion, and helping them connect with the values behind the brand. Transitioning from the corporate pace of New York to retail management in Tennessee was not just a professional shift—it was deeply personal. After the isolation of COVID-19, I realized that my greatest fulfillment comes from people-focused work: mentoring students, guiding customers, and fostering meaningful professional relationships. Throughout my career, intellectual property and brand strategy have remained central to my professional focus. Beyond corporate roles, I have collaborated with organizations such as Chief and Licensing International, and I currently enjoy guiding students at Lipscomb University in exploring branding opportunities and fashion law. Environmental advocacy is another passion of mine; my master’s thesis explored sustainable packaging practices in fashion, and I have actively supported initiatives like the Fashion Act in New York State to promote responsible and ethical industry practices.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Networking has been a cornerstone of my journey in the fashion industry. I encourage young women to put themselves out there—sometimes the most meaningful opportunities come from simply reaching out. For example, I met Alex Faherty a few times at trade shows and events, and when I was exploring a new position, I sent him an email. That connection led to my current role, illustrating the power of leveraging relationships and being willing to face rejection. I see myself as a connector and a resource for others navigating the fashion world. Networking isn’t just about advancing your own career; it’s about lifting others, sharing knowledge, and opening doors for those around you. The relationships you build can be as impactful for your peers as they are for you, and cultivating them with generosity and authenticity is what ultimately sustains a long, fulfilling career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Early in my career, navigating the fashion industry while managing learning disabilities taught me the importance of hands-on learning and finding creative ways to demonstrate my capabilities. Those experiences shaped how I approach challenges and opportunities today.
Currently, one of the biggest challenges in the industry is the impact of tariffs and shifting trade policies. These changes create uncertainty around where brands manufacture their products, which can disrupt supply chains and ultimately increase costs for consumers. At the same time, this environment presents opportunities for brands to innovate, explore new sourcing strategies, and emphasize transparency and sustainability in how they operate.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Relocating from New York to Tennessee was more than a change of location—it was a shift in mindset. I moved from boardrooms to storefronts and from spreadsheets to meaningful, direct interactions with people who care about fashion, sustainability, and storytelling. Nashville’s vibrant culture and my family’s presence made the transition feel natural, and it’s in these personal connections that I’ve found the greatest joy in my career.
Compassion, generosity, and authenticity are values I hold at the core of both my work and personal life. I am protective of the people I work with, and I approach every interaction with honesty and care—whether mentoring students, engaging customers, or spending time with my family. I wear my heart on my sleeve, and while that can sometimes be challenging, it has also guided me toward deeper connections and a more fulfilling career.