Courtney Cruzan
Business Development Manager
Everest Textile, USA LLC

Introduce yourself to our audience. Tell us who you are and what you are currently focused on.
A natural networker and business maven with a long history in the textile and apparel industry, I am focused on building business relationships and making the entire US supply chain successful.

Tell us about your favorite AAPNetwork memory or success story. Why are you a member?
Miami networking event at the Four Seasons where being a member is all about making friends and new business connections.

What qualities does it take for someone to be successful in your line of work?
Determination, patience and flexibility because there are so many variables in textile and apparel production!

How would you define your professional mission?
Contribute successful business to the Made in USA mission and strengthen the next generation of suppliers and producers.

What is one of your most memorable career accomplishments?
Becoming the only American textile professional working full time for a Taiwanese textile company in Taiwan.

What are some career challenges on your radar?
Overcoming price acceptance and supply logistics to make Made in USA products.

What project have you worked on that you are most proud of? Why?
Executing a textile museum in southern Taiwan. I was part of the process from design to retail sales to government promotion and educated international visitors about the textile industry while building company value.

We'd love to hear more about your career path. What led you to where you are today?
My love for textiles started when I as 6 years old helping my interior design Mom organize sample books. At U of Idaho, I received my B.S. in Clothing, Textiles and Design after which I moved to France to pursue design. In France, I realized my passion is with people and business so I returned to California to start in retail management. At MIIS in Monterey I received my MBA with focus in textile marketing and trade after which I worked in wholesale brand marketing. Finding a need to explore global opportunities, I relocated with my husband to China then on to Taiwan where I spent 7 years in sourcing and textile production business development. Now I am with a Taiwan company promoting Made in America and Haiti and continue to be challenged every day!

What is it about your job that makes you feel it's the right fit for you?
I am excellent at building relationships and understand all facets of the textile and apparel production process. My time living in Asia gives me the skill sets to navigate the cultural differences working for a Taiwanese company.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Making clients happy and seeing their product go to market.

What advice would you offer future leading ladies wishing to break into the industry?
Gain experience in as many avenues of the industry you can, travel and attend a lot of trade shows so you can have a deep understanding to be successful.

What legacy do you hope to leave through your work?
Having empathy and understanding across cultures and different aspects of business to drive results.

What is your morning ritual?
Stretching and cuddling with my dog before enjoying a nice breakfast while I meditate by gazing at my wooded backyard.

Is work-life balance a problem for you? What is one no-fail tactic you use to create balance?
I believe in life-life balance, I find joy in my work and live life to the fullest as best I can.

What is one piece of advice you'd offer working moms?
Make sure to plan time for your personal self!

What is the best career advice you ever received?
Stay focused and be patient!

What would you say your personal superpower is?
Positive outlook