Isbjörn of Sweden has recruited ex-H&M product developer Selma Jakobsson as the new purchasing and production manager.
Jakobsson started his first sustainable textile company Mottainai NY, focusing on denim menswear, in 2005 while studying fashion and communication at The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
By building knowledge and experience as a production agent in New York for brands including Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, she joined H&M in 2013. From her time at H&M, Jakobsson has worked in Bangladesh and China, responsible for purchasing and supplier development in the children’s category.
Maria Frykman, CEO, Polar Bear in Sweden, said: “We are extremely proud and happy to welcome Selma to our passionate team. With more than 15 years of commitment to sustainable fashion and a unique combination of skills, Selma has experience in all areas of purchasing and production. Sustainability is at the forefront of everything she does and considers at every step of the production process. I am really impressed and look forward to taking our product range to the next level, together with Selma and the rest of the Polar Bear team. ”
Jakobsson will work within the brand’s management team and is fully responsible for its vertical product range.
Selma Jakobsson said: “Joining Polar Bear, a leader in sustainability innovation from the beginning, in such an expansive phase poses clear and inspiring challenges for me. In close collaboration with the team, we can reach new heights for the brand and continue to innovate, especially when it comes to protecting children and the planet. ”
Frykman concluded: “There is a clear shift in the market, and the race has only started for knowledgeable people like Selma in sustainable production. Green cleaning will no longer suffice. If your company or your products lack a sustainable foundation today, there is a good chance that they will be left behind within a few years. It also applies to the customer to make other choices, as investors begin to see the value of a company differently. ”
Photo courtesy of Polar Bear of Sweden