Inclusive Luxury

Joey Walsh on being part of the LGBTQ+ community in the luxury sector

Inclusive Luxury is our content series dedicated to celebrating the work of Walpole member executives in the LGBTQ+ community. In our latest interview, we speak to Joey Walsh, Account Manager for communications agency ANM Comms
8th Aug 2024
Inclusive Luxury Joey Walsh on being part of the LGBTQ+ community in the luxury sector

Walpole: What does your role entail, and how long have you been doing it?

Joey Walsh: As Account Manager, my role entails the day-to-day management of my allocated clients, which vary from fashion and menswear to placemaking and, of course, Walpole. I manage the teams working with me across media relations, strategic story placements, events, photoshoots, sample movement, influencer partnerships and social media management. My speciality sits within fashion, where my career in PR began five years ago.

What’s your career background and what makes you passionate about what you do?

As I mentioned, my career kicked off in fashion before I started working within the luxury sector. I didn't go to university so, at the start of my career, self-motivation was key to my success. I was an assistant stylist and I decided to move across to PR, in which I knew I would have to work hard to prove myself. I went on to secure an internship at a global PR firm where I learnt the foundations, following another internship with the BFC. I finally landed my first proper PR role almost a year after I started out. Reflecting on my journey now is really what motivates me to keep going and maintains my passion. On the day to day, working with cool brands that have interesting stories to tell keeps my work engaging and seeing those stories come to life in the media I find very rewarding.

How has your sexuality and/or gender identity been a source of strength on your journey into your sector?

For me, a source of strength in my career journey – especially at the start – was having the belief in myself and the determination to succeed. This sense came in part came from having confidence in who I am and how I present myself to the world unapologetically.  

Do you think attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have shifted in your time in the industry?

In my experience, the PR & Comms industry is one driven by women teams and the offices I’ve worked in have always felt safe and nurturing. I have, however, seen a noticeable change in the way brands interact with our community – a change for the better. When I started out, rainbow washing wasn’t something brands were typically called out for. I feel as if now there is more support year-round campaigns and pride month campaign on the whole are more considered, from the messaging to the talent chosen to front them. The campaigns that are less considered  are quickly picked apart online…and rightly so. 

What’s a significant obstacle for members of the LGBTQ+ community in the workplace that you feel isn’t talked about enough - and why is it important to highlight?

Not always having the opportunity to talk is an issue that should be addressed more. As part of workplace culture, we should be made to feel as though we can share our stories openly and educate and inform our peers on the issues the community currently faces. These aren’t always comfortable topics, and they may not affect our industry directly, but they do impact people who work with in it. Discussion around trans rights and the Don't Say Gay bill that was passed in Florida (that prohibits classroom discussion about sexual orientation and gender identity) negatively affect how we as a community see ourselves in the world. Sometimes it feels as if we're going backwards rather than stepping forwards.

Is there any policy work that needs doing to evolve and ensure workplaces are more inclusive to LGBTQ+ people?

The LGBTQ+ supportive policies that are currently in place have a positive impact in the workplace, as well as on the community. A diverse team with different backgrounds ultimately allows for innovation that increases collective creativity and performance – diversity policies are drivers of success. As long as the workplace maintains such policies and prioritises supporting the most vulnerable people within the community, we'll continue to move forward.  

Is there a person in your industry or sector from the LGBTQ+ community who inspires you or has helped you on your journey?

A lot of the connections I have made within the industry happen to be with people from the LGBTQ+ community. Whether that be with journalists, creatives, influencers or others working in PR, we're lucky to work together. I admire each and their work greatly. 

What career advice do you have for younger members of the LGBTQ+ community who are entering your industry?

Own who you are and don’t be shy in expressing yourself. Your uniqueness, along with your skillset, will ultimately set you apart from the crowd. 

What does Pride in the workplace mean to you?

Having a supporting allyship and good workplace culture year-round. I know I’ve found a good place where my sexuality doesn’t even come into the conversation and I know I’m accepted for who I am – which is how everyone should feel when at work. To ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe in the workplace, we need the same support to be shown in other sectors and spaces and the continued education of what we stand for as a community and activism against backwards policies.

> Visit ANM Comms member profile

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