I’m 22 and have unexpectedly been made CEO of a new fashion brand. How do I actually become a good CEO?
Hi everyone,
I’m 22 years old and recently I was given the position of CEO of a newly starting fashion/clothing brand. Honestly, I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity, but I’m also quite overwhelmed because I never expected to be in this position so early.
My academic background is science, not business. I’m currently studying a science subject at university, so I have very little formal knowledge about business, management, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
The reason I was given this responsibility is that I have some knowledge and interest in fashion, clothing, designs and what people tend to like, so I’ll be involved in things like product/design research, understanding customer demand, and eventually helping build the brand. But I know being a CEO is much more than knowing about the products.
The company is currently being built from the ground up, so I have the opportunity to learn everything from the beginning. I don't want to simply have the title of CEO without actually having the knowledge and skills to deserve it.
So I’d really appreciate advice from people who have experience running businesses, building brands, working in management, or are CEOs/founders themselves.
1)What should I learn?
2)What business fundamentals should I understand first?
3)Should I learn accounting/finance even if someone else handles the accounts?
4)How much should I know about marketing, sales, branding, HR and operations?
5)What skills should a young CEO prioritize?
6)Are there any online courses you genuinely recommend (free or paid)?
7)Are there any books that every new entrepreneur/CEO should read?
8)Are there specific courses on leadership, management, entrepreneurship or fashion business that would be useful?
9)What should I learn about building and scaling a clothing/fashion brand specifically?
10)What mistakes do inexperienced CEOs commonly make?
11)If you were suddenly put in my position at 22, what would you spend the next 6–12 months learning?
I’m not looking for motivational advice like “just believe in yourself.” 😅 I know I have a lot to learn, and I genuinely want to put in the work.
I’d especially love to hear from people who have actually built a business, managed a team, worked as a CEO/founder, or have experience in the fashion/apparel industry.
Any advice, resources, courses, books, or even things you wish you had learned earlier would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!