In Conversation with Julie Comer

Tell us about your background:

After an initial experience in the finance department of one of the largest luxury groups, I quickly realized that I wanted to work in a smaller organization where I could have a direct impact. I then joined a newly created M&A and growth-strategy boutique in New York, working primarily with marketing and communications agencies. I was particularly drawn to their ability to bridge the gap between understanding the “agency language”, identifying the capabilities agencies need to grow, and bringing the financial expertise required to structure and execute successful M&A transactions.

Over the years, the company has grown into a 10-person boutique with new team members in Paris and Shanghai. I have genuinely enjoyed working with successful and determined entrepreneurs with a strong vision. It has been incredibly enriching to support them in defining their next strategic steps, whether expanding internationally in the US, Europe, or Asia or finding the right partners to join a larger organization and continue scaling.

One of the most transformative projects for me and for the company was our work with Baozun, a leading Chinese e-commerce group that decided to expand into 360 brand management. We supported them in signing a licensing agreement with GAP in Greater China, from defining the relaunch strategy of GAP to leading the deal negotiations and overseeing the initial stages of integration. This was a very interesting project and also officially marked the launch of our second sector of expertise in retail and consumer brands.

Best career advice you've ever received?
Dare to say yes to new projects and opportunities. Research consistently shows that women tend to wait until they meet nearly 100% of the requirements before stepping into a new role. Waiting to feel “fully ready” can slow progression; growth often comes from learning on the job rather than being perfectly prepared from the start.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Adaptability and flexibility are essential. I admire leaders who don’t rigidly stick to a plan, but who are able to adjust quickly, learn from what’s happening on the ground, and make decisions even when not everything is perfectly clear. In fast-changing environments, this ability to adapt often makes the difference.

Vision anchored in practice is equally important to me. I believe in setting a clear long-term direction, but also in translating that vision into concrete, short-term actions. The leaders I respect most are those who stay pragmatic, test ideas, and continuously refine their approach based on what they learn.

How has networking contributed to your professional growth and success?

Meeting new people, hearing their stories and what they're excited about working on helps expand your own worldview and what's possible.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-comer-0b36b898/

Website: wearelazare.com