Linda Duncombe
Executive Producer
I would like to see more active appointments of women in the top roles and on boards. Having a diverse workforce is important.
Meet Linda.
Linda Duncombe is an Executive Producer of The Queen’s Jewels and a distinguished leader in both the banking and entertainment industries. In addition to her role in the film's production, Linda serves on the boards of the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, The Grammy Museum, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles. Known for her strategic vision and expertise in funding complex, high-dollar transactions across a variety of sectors, Linda has been consistently recognized as one of Variety's "Most Powerful Women in Hollywood." Her extensive experience and dedication to both the arts and philanthropy make her an invaluable asset to the production of this highly-anticipated film.
What inspired you to start your company?
I wanted to take control of my career when I changed industries and be able to move quickly.
Can you share a significant challenge or obstacle you've faced in the industry and how you overcame it?
The industry has not recovered from the pandemic and the strikes, getting finance for our Indie Film was a challenge. We were talking to successful business people that had not had a lot of experience with entertainment. What they had seen had them reluctant to invest in entertainment. We showed them our financial modeling and with our experience in entertainment and how our experience outside of entertainment gives us what we need to be successful.
Who are your role models or mentors in the industry? How have they influenced your career?
Sherry Lansing - A total powerhouse and someone who has been incredibly supportive of me. When I was looking to change career paths she was totally supportive and told me to chase my dreams. My work experience was perfect for what I wanted to do in Entertainment. Sherry supports me as a person and whenever she can, will make introductions for me to help build my network. Sherry is a role model and mentor.
What advice would you give to your younger self or to our younger generations who are looking to break into the industry?
Be ready to for some bumps in the road. Know your truth and keep people close that will give you honest feedback. It's really important to have a strong and honest support group.
Fashion is often seen as a female-driven industry, yet leadership roles are still male-dominated. How has your experience been as a woman in a leadership position, and what changes would you like to see?
I have been fortunate to have had great support from both women and men. The challenge of diversity at the top remains an issue for most industries. I would like to see more active appointments of women in the top roles and on boards. Having a diverse workforce is important. You want your teams and executives to reflect the diverse clients and prospect of the company. I am not supportive of quotas but I do think targets should be set to ensure diversity at all levels.
Many women in business face the challenge of balancing personal and professional life. How have you managed to navigate this balance as a female entrepreneur?
I will be honest, I have not done this well. I get so much joy from my work, I immerse myself in it. The need to take time out is so important because it refuels you. My morning run by the beach is not just physical exercise for me but helps my mental well being as well. I get into a meditative state and find a real calmness in this time for me. I am a big believer of family and health first. It's a mantra, teams I have led will tell you that I insist on. Happy, healthy people are better in all aspects of their lives.
Have you experienced any biases or stereotypes as a woman in your industry, and how have those experiences shaped the way you lead and run your business?
The biases I saw were years ago. Assumptions made about women by emotional or their objective should be to have children and be the primary caregiver. Those times were difficult and what I have done is to always help to inform and listen to the view of men and women. If there is a forum for any kind of discussion that is about women and our equality, I will always look to have men in the room. When so many senior roles are held by men, they need to hear and be part of the conversation to continue the right kind of change for diversity.
What’s a misconception people have about being a female founder that you’d like to address?
That we make decisions emotionally. I am a big believer of facts and data. I can be passionate about what the data is telling me and that has served me well. I don't get emotional as some kind of female default.
What strategies do you use to maintain your personal identity outside of your role as a business leader?
I am very passionate about the community and giving back. I sit on a number of non for profit boards and while I give my money, I also give my time which can be just as important. The opportunity to give back for me is important, it also allows me to meet so many people I would otherwise not have met.
What’s an unconventional or unexpected resource that has been pivotal in your entrepreneurial journey?
Leveraging my friends, family and networks to help with scale and reach. It's wonderful how people want to help and see you succeed. Some of the support I have gotten as an entrepreneur has been from people I would not be able to afford to employ.
How do you measure success for yourself outside of traditional metrics like revenue or growth?
Revenue, growth and returns are key and doing that in a way that is ethical and sustainable are table stakes. Success for me outside of traditional metrics is more qualiatative. Am I happy? Do I enjoy getting up in the morning and doing the work that I do? Am I making a positive difference. Life is precious and every day is a gift. I want to be sure where I spend my time is most impactful for me personally, the community groups I support and those that are part of my end to end company stakeholder group.
We believe in sharing the love. Tell us about other brands you are loving right now!
I love Beauty Blender. Their primer and foundation are fabulous! Great products and the sponge is iconic! Vitamin Water Zero, great flavor and virtually no calories. Maybe not a brand but I am loving it Apple + Bad Monkey, this show is fantastic!