A disruptor in the beauty services space, Ruuby launched in 2016, and now connects over 1,000 beauty and wellness professionals with consumers across the UK - delivering a service every six minutes.
Venetia has been named one of the Forbes' 30 Under 30, Management Today's 35 Under 35, and she is on the advisory board of the British Beauty Council's Sustainable Beauty Committee, and the Technology and Innovation Committee. Venetia is passionate about entrepreneurship, women in technology and beauty, and serves as an advisor to a number of emerging businesses in the space.
What woman (real or fictional) inspires you? In a few words, please explain why:
Vanessa Kingori OBE. Currently the Managing Director, and previously Chief Business Officer at Vogue. Her career has been remarkable, and she has navigated the shift between different industries so remarkably. I really believe that we have different chapters in our lives, and she isa great example of that. Plus - she is an honest champion of other women in business.
Studies have shown that some women do not feel comfortable discussing finances with family and friends. Do you think this is true, based on your experience?
No.
In what ways do you think financial education for women could be improved, and how has your own understanding of finances impacted your career and personal life?
Women and girls should be educated on the importance of financial independence and smart financial decision making from a younger age.
I don't understand why something that is so crucial to success in life is not taught to young women and am pleased to see the roots of a movement to change this.
I learned about finances later in life, and many of my earlier professional decisions were taken without thinking about financial implications.
It is something that should be discussed openly, and with tools being more readily available. Female Invest is a great platform for women, and they are making real strides in this area.
What is the biggest risk you have taken?
Setting up my business! I left my former role as a political risk consultant to start up Ruuby – the on-demand beauty services platform, which I have lovingly grown ever since. It was a risk, but one I was so happy to take. I love the freedom that comes with being an entrepreneur, despite the other associated challenges.
Have you ever felt imposter syndrome? If so, how have you dealt with this?
I felt imposter syndrome during my early days starting Ruuby. Not surprisingly, as I had entered a completely new industry, and was starting with almost no foundation. That said, there is nothing better than learning on the job, and now I feel completely at ease with my role. While there are moments where the goal posts move, and the intellectual intensity increases – I enjoy the challenge that it brings which in turn supports my own development. I am now much more comfortable saying when I don't know something – even the most experienced people in the room don't know everything!
What is your proudest experience or achievement?
As much as I love my business, it would be my two little girls!
What is the one cause you are most passionate about, and why?
I really believe in female economic empowerment - and indeed this is a core part of our mission at Ruuby - we have developed a platform that women (and men) can use flexibly to make an income. Part of my role as a founder is to offer an example to young women and show that it is possible to run your own business, despite some of the broader challenges that we are presented with (e.g. only 2% of venture funding goes to female founded businesses).
What advice did you need most at 16?
Your uniqueness makes you special, you don't need to be the same as everyone else.
How do you think mentorship plays a role in the professional growth of women, and have you had a mentor who significantly influenced your journey?
It is crucial. There isn't a playbook, and as women we need to surround ourselves with supporters who are both further along, and those behind on the journey.
I have had some incredible mentors along the way and will always share my learnings with those who are on a similar path.
Looking forward, what are you most excited for over the next six months?
This year we launched Ruuby internationally, and I am so excited to see that play out into 2025 and see Ruuby become part of the tapestry of other cities outside of the UK!