What really goes on behind the scenes? Industry experts share their knowledge

Jose Neves is the founder and CEO of the global e-tail site FarFetch, which sources designer clothing from brick-and-mortar boutiques across the world and sells it online.

How have you found e-commerce has changed since you began your business?
Since Farfetch launched in 2008, e-commerce has developed rapidly as a hugely competitive environment. Farfetch has maintained an advantageous position through its unique business model, by uniting the very best boutiques and giving them an online platform on which to grow and flourish.

What do people want from your site?
People come to farfetch for a curated edit of labels and products from influential, multi-brand designer boutiques. An emphasis on creating a mix of influential and emerging designers has established Farfetch as a destination for discovering up-and-coming talent alongside renowned brands.

What have you been most surprised by in the way people use the site?
The fashion community has been highly receptive of Farfetch supporting independent retailers.  We have found that people like to shop through boutiques as it is a highly personalised experience, the individuality of each boutique is represented through each step of the shopping experience; from the landing page to the packaging which arrives at your door.

Are you techie in your downtime?
It’s essential I can access the office from wherever I am in the world, so  I always carry my iPad with me. I'm always downloading different apps - my top 2 are Halo and Style.com. I workout every day before starting work and my favourite thing is my Polar training kit, which tracks heart rate, calories burned and distance.

Can you tell us about your latest project?
One of our most recent pushes the boundaries of traditional e-commerce - it's our collaboration with Yasmin Sewell's Beach in the East pop-up shop, in association with Paper Mâché Tiger. A bespoke, full-size swimming pool in the heart of Shoreditch is the backdrop for the pop-up which brings together the world’s best independent designers, and Farfetch has collaborated to create a virtual pop-up on site.