Featured Leader: offline with Simon Turner (Edition 8)

In our 8th “offline” edition, we catch-up with Clothes2order’s Marketing Director, Simon Turner, and find out about his love for trail running, history, Arctic Monkeys, and how he’s embracing AI and much more…

Why did you move into a career in marketing?

After completing a History degree I had no idea what I wanted to do. I took some time out, worked as a chef, travelled a bit…. and still had no clue. I was living with my friend who was working in SEO. After about 6 months I didn’t really understand what he did so had a proper chat with him about it – and it sounded awesome.

I’d always enjoyed writing and had thought about copywriting as a career, but had struggled to find the right application for it. I started my own website and once I saw traffic coming into the analytics reports I was hooked.

How do you switch off?

Running is my quiet place. Hitting the trails before or after work gives me a bit of me time between work and a young family.

Getting into nature can provide the switch off, but conversely it’s also where I do most of my thinking.

What is your favourite “Podcast and Book” in 2025?

The Rest is History is my favourite Podcast of the year. I should probably say a marketing or business one, but I’ve really enjoyed rediscovering my love of history. Something I’ve found over the last few years is that being more rounded is helpful for me so I’ve enjoyed picking up some other interests!

What’s your favourite inspirational quote OR Mantra when things get tough?

“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realise this and you will find strength”.

This and other Stoic philosophy has seen me through a lot. Once you quieten out what you can’t control it reduces fear and provides focus.

Fun fact about you?

I didn’t start running until I was 36. In the four years since I’ve run x2 marathons and x2 ultra marathons, plus started a run club for marketers. Talk about a mid life crisis!

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What’s your proudest professional achievement to-date?

Probably how we pulled Clothes2order through a very tough Covid. We largely sell into businesses for uniforms and events, so the majority of our client base were shut and cutting costs.

We pivoted quickly and launched a partnership with Alder Hey Childrens Hospital to use our factory to print face coverings. In a few months we launched a brand, pivoted our operations and kept enough business coming through to get the business through, plus raised over £100k for Alder Hey in the process.

What is your favourite music album of all time?

As I’m originally from Sheffield I think I’ll have to go with Arctic Monkeys, Whatever People Say I am, That’s What I’m Not

What 1 thing would you tell your younger self?

To have confidence in yourself, say yes and figure things out – good things will happen.

How are you embracing AI in 2025?

As much as I can. We all know this is a monumental shift, but trying not to be overwhelmed and just staying as up to date as possible. Seeing it as an opportunity to scale things faster and more effectively.

What’s your favourite holiday destination?

Italy, haven’t been for far too long but as the kids get older would love to go inter-railing to see the history, the scenery and experience the culture.

About Simon…

My career has been dedicated to growing Clothes2order, a business I joined as employee 13 as marketing executive. Having since progressed to Marketing Director I’ve helped grow the business into a market innovator with a team of 160.

Beyond work I’ve discovered a passion for running and physical challenge. Taking on The Great North Run, Manchester Marathon and The Lap Ultra Marathon so far. I thrive on community, so co-founded The Marketing Run Club which has grown to 200+ members and is helping many to drive their own running forwards.

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