Walpole: What is your personal background in the luxury sector?
Daniel Peters [pictured above, right]: I would say that my introduction to the luxury sector was through a retail role at Selfridges in 2006, where I had the opportunity to work in what was then referred to as the 'Men's Superbrands Room'. I'd long-coveted the items in that space, but it was the first time that I had such close proximity to the product and to the customer. However, my big break came aged 19 when I was taken on for a short-term role at Burberry's headquarters in London, which went on to become a four-year career where I produced the global events, global showrooms and runway shows. As someone from a background that didn't allow for an introduction to luxury from a young age, this experience at Burberry made the industry and a career feel tangible. I had the opportunity to work on such a wide array of projects that are still, nearly 15 years later, highlights which make me feel excited for the sector.
Why did you set up Minority Report Group?
In the midst of the pandemic, I – like many others – had the opportunity to reflect on what was happening in the world, but my train of thought extended to what my experience as a minority in the workplace had been. My realisation led me to the stark realisation that whilst I had faced challenges, I had what I call professional privilege – and that privilege lends itself to supporting underrepresented people to thrive and better establish themselves through my community and network. That spark led me to launch the Minority Report Group as a way to create inclusive workplace culture for diverse voices. We all have the ability to create change, and this was my path to help businesses and their teams to foster a better culture of belonging.