In Conversation with Nancy Herrmann
Tell us about your background:
From early on, I was immersed in art, design, and self-expression. Growing up with a sister in the L.A. music scene of the ’80s, I discovered punk, new wave, and the subcultures that shaped my sense of style. Music, fashion, and art became the language I used to understand the world. Magazines were my window into possibility—editorial design and photography fueling an imagination that eventually led me to study fashion design and merchandising, with New York as the clear destination.
My path has always been multidimensional. I began my career at Michael Kors, where I witnessed how a designer’s vision becomes an immersive brand world. Later, a graduate degree in architecture from Parsons expanded my perspective to form, space, and sensory experience. Editorial work at I.D. (International Design) Magazine, Wallpaper*, and Architectural Digest sharpened my eye for innovation—across products, packaging, typography, and environments—and honed my instinct for storytelling.
Over time, my focus shifted into global beauty, where I directed creative campaigns, packaging, and brand identity for L’Oréal, bareMinerals, and Alterna Haircare, among others. These roles merged strategy with artistry, shaping not only how brands looked but how they were felt.
After more than two decades in corporate roles, I created Jane & Co. Design to channel that breadth of experience into something more personal. My boutique studio blends strategy and design into a sensory, story-driven practice that helps entrepreneurs in beauty, fashion, and hospitality bring their vision into clear, elevated form.
What do you wish you’d known when you started out?
If I could speak to my younger self, I’d tell her two things. First: start your financial independence journey early. Learn about investing, leverage the magic of compounding, and give yourself the freedom of choice sooner.
Second: invest just as deeply in career relationships as in career achievements. The connections you cultivate—the mentors, collaborators, and creative peers—are what sustain you over decades. Beyond that, I wish I had trusted myself more, done the mindset work to quiet self-sabotage, and embraced my own uniqueness instead of trying to blend in.
Best career advice you've ever received?
I don’t recall one specific piece of advice, but I do carry a guiding principle shaped my my early career experience. I was surrounded by extraordinary creatives like Michael Kors, Fabien Baron, Steven Meisel. At the time, I often felt intimidated, like I didn’t belong. What I’ve learned since is to lean into those moments: absorb everything, ask questions, and learn rather than shrink back.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
For me, leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice. It’s about creating an environment where people feel clear and supported. Integrity is central to that —showing up consistently, following through, and encouraging others to do the same.
How do you define success in your career, and how has that definition evolved over time?
In my corporate years, success was measured externally: working on marquee brands, climbing the career ladder, collecting titles. Today, it feels entirely different. I define success by internal measures such as creative autonomy, the freedom to choose projects that excite me, and the ability to build financial independence. Now, success is defined by alignment: my work, my values, and my lifestyle in harmony.
What are your top networking tips for building strong connections in your industry?
Networking, for me, is an ongoing practice that blends curiosity, generosity, and authenticity. Ask thoughtful questions, share opportunities when they come to mind, and always show up as yourself. Some of the most meaningful career moments in my life came not from formal applications, but from relationships built over time and rooted in mutual trust.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyherrmann1/
Website: https://janeandcodesign.com
Instagram: @_nancyherrmann
