Between baking, golfing and strategising Net-a-Porter’s next move, Nisreen Shocair – Yoox Net-A-Porter Group CEO, Middle East – appears to have cracked the work-life balance code. Grazia’s taking notes.
How are you finding the transition to a new way of working/life?
I am an advocate for a flexible/smart working culture that does not compromise productivity. YNAP shifted to 100 per cent global smart working even before the lockdown came in and the importance of work/life balance made the transition much easier for us from a culture and tech perspective. Since weekends and weekdays merged into one, I made sure that we had one exciting event per day. Monday baking, Taco Tuesday, Wednesday quiz night, Events on the PS4, and so on. It kept us connected with friends and family all over the world. We all play instruments, so we also play and sing a lot of music together. That was particularly important during the lockdown.
What have been the biggest challenges?
I play music and golf so these are my little escapes that have kept me active and positive. Not being able to play golf, especially when you overlook a golf course, was painful! Luckily there was the joy of children, friends, dogs and of course music.
What’s been the most pleasant surprise?
The incredible level of creativity we’ve been able to create as a business, as well as the charitable initiatives we have been lucky enough to support globally. How resilient children can be if you explain to them what’s happening and allow them to speak about their concerns. I see changes in nature. When I play golf, I see birds I have not seen before. I also like the evening time spent with my team virtually via events we are hosting, but also talking to my parents and trying to stay close to them as they are alone. I thought I would get through all the books on my Kindle, but here I am still trying to get through the first.
What are your hopes for the future?
I am ready to enjoy family and friends IRL, take my kids to the park. I am very excited about where YNAP Middle East is going. We have so many activities launching all over the Middle East. It will be an exciting and busy year ahead! Stay tuned.
Photos: Supplied
