Our Team
Having graduated from Cass Business School in London in 2012 with a BSc Management Degree alongside qualifying to the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, Igor joined the fashion industry in 2016. Since then, Igor has carved a niche in the fashion industry, managing two globally recognised fashion brands. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for innovation, he has successfully steered these brands from concept to market, demonstrating a prowess in handling both creative and operational aspects of the business.
Igor's expertise spans across various facets of the fashion sector, including operational management, manufacturing oversight, financial planning, and wholesale distribution. His hands-on approach in overseeing the daily operations of both brands has not only ensured their smooth functioning but has also enriched them with a distinctive edge in the competitive fashion market and lead to them being stocked in some of the worlds most renown retailers including Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Printemps, Galeries Lafayette to name a few.
With a vast network of industry contacts and a wealth of practical experience, Igor now consults for up-and-coming as well as established fashion enterprises, offering insights and strategies tailored to foster growth and innovation in their operations. Whether guiding through the intricacies of brand development or strategising for market expansion, Igor’s consultancy provides invaluable resources for any fashion business aiming to make a significant impact in the industry.
Igor Ivanenko
Founder & Director
Madeleine Smith
Design Director
Since joining our team in 2018, Madeleine has been a cornerstone of creativity at Group 21 and Only the Blind. A proud alumna of Ravensbourne University in London, where she honed her skills with a degree in Fashion Design, Madeleine brings a blend of innovative vision and meticulous precision to our projects.
As Head of Brand at Only the Blind and Design Director at Group 21, Madeleine is responsible for the creative direction of all our endeavours. She skillfully manages the design process from inception to execution, ensuring that each piece not only meets the highest standards of quality and creativity but also resonates with our audience. Her responsibilities extend to overseeing project briefs, orchestrating photoshoots, and ensuring that every design element aligns perfectly with our brand's aesthetic and values.
Madeleine’s exceptional leadership and creative insight have been instrumental in defining the visual and stylistic elements that set our collections apart in the competitive fashion landscape. Her passion for design and attention to detail continue to drive our brand forward, making a significant impact on our projects and leaving a lasting impression on our clientele.