A Menopause Champion & Consultant
I have worked in luxury lifestyle for over 30 years. Further to my time with Vogue Italia and Vogue TV here in London, I became one of the first in my sector to present and produce video content for some of the world's leading brands (including Swarovski, Burberry, Ralph Lauren, Harvey Nichols, Avon, John Lewis and Temperley). As the menopause hit, I side-stepped into working in wellness, as I navigated the mental and physical impact of this hormonal journey. Working as a consultant for luxury supplements brand Lumity and then the award-winning Absolute Collagen, I focused on client care and retention. During this time, I found myself organically helping and guiding customers through their own menopausal issues, thereby not only helping to retain them but creating an invaluable, unique service and connection for all.
I so enjoyed and believed in this aspect of my work, that I went on to train as a certified Menopause Champion with the Menopause Experts Group. Here I furthered my own knowledge and experience by completing their accredited online training program.
I firmly believe that one of the most important parts of the perimenopause/menopause journey is simply having someone to talk to and moreover, someone who listens. Not a doctor but in essence a menopause 'buddy' who can connect and guide with empathy, humour, authenticity and knowledge. This can provide a vital service for individuals, customers and employees alike and work well alongside a medical clinician.
Most recently I had the pleasure of working for GenM, the Menopause Partner for brands and home of the MTick (the world's first menopause-friendly shopping symbol). Here I supported their Co-Founder and growing collective of 100 partners, brands and retailers in their unique vision to make menopause more visible. Prior to this, I was a consultant to the BBC Dragon Touker Suleyman, and his Healthista team, working on their exciting digital menopause pack, post launch.
As a menopausal woman, who over the last six years has worked purposefully with a large variety of menopause brands and their customers, I have attained a truly unique and invaluable insight into this thriving, forever market worth $600 billion by 2030. (Forbes Oct 2020).
menobabe* (noun)
1. a woman who owns her perimenopause and menopause and retains her identity, confidence and power.
2. a woman who by seeking and sharing her menopause knowledge, helps others through listening, friendship, vulnerability and laughter.
"I was as so thrilled to hear Vanessa had joined the GenM team. Having previously worked together during her consultancy for a BBC Dragon's menopause project, I knew her career at Vogue plus her authentic menopause experience, knowledge and passion would mean we were in the best possible hands. Simply a joy to work with, and I would recommend her to anyone in the menopause space."
Anna Ellis, Head of Brand, Made of More.
"Vanessa was instrumental in pioneering our customer focused approach to retaining customers at Absolute Collagen. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience of engaging with women, particularly those experiencing menopausal symptoms. Her ability to connect and offer support has helped our customers to feel heard and seen. She's so enthusiastic and passionate about supporting women going through the menopause and has been a pleasure to work with."
Emma Vipond, Head of Retention, Absolute Collagen.
“You have lifted my spirits so much, thank you. I feel there is light in sight, not just a big dark cloud and I’m hoping I can stay feeling like this. I can honestly say our chat has made me feel so much better. I’m in a dark place at the moment and you have made me feel like I’m not alone and that means alot....”
Bernadette, Absolute Collagen Customer.
