We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Rifat Jan, one of our esteemed advisers at Newable, for an insightful Q&A session. Rifat shared her extensive experience in product development, her passion for supporting innovative businesses and her personal interests. From managing supply chain projects and leading quantum innovation programmes to hiking in the Chiltern Hills and collecting glass jam jars, Rifat’s diverse background and dedication to helping others shine through.
Join us as we delve into Rifat’s journey, expertise and the unique perspectives she brings to the table.
What is your role at Newable?
My role at Newable is an Innovation Team Manager. In this position, I manage a team of seven talented and versatile Innovation advisers who support the growth of innovative businesses in London.
I support a diverse range of cross-sector businesses, spanning from AgriTech and Artificial Intelligence to the development of creative innovation platforms and services.
What innovative advice would you give to your existing clients?
It’s crucial for them to conduct thorough research and ensure they have identified a problem to solve or a service or product with commercial potential. Technology is constantly evolving, creating opportunities not just to keep pace but to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. Innovation doesn’t always mean creating something entirely new; it can involve enhancing an existing idea with a new technical or creative element. A recent example is the automotive industry, where advancements in battery technology have transformed the entire sector.
Please tell us a little about your background?
I am an experienced product development practitioner, having launched over a hundred new-to-market products for both German and UK retailers. One of my standout achievements was developing a slimming gum that filled a market gap, was developed within six months and successfully launched with Superdrug, selling three thousand packs a week.
As an entrepreneur, my proudest commercial experience was inventing and developing a UK-made reusable baby feeding system. I secured patents in six countries, brought it to market in the UK and 15 other countries, grew sales and eventually sold the business to a nationally renowned business leader who is listed on the Alternative Investment Market This product is now a key item in the company’s product portfolio
My entrepreneurial journey has equipped me with the ability to build empathetic rapport with innovative clients, guiding them from the product or service development to market entry and expansion.
My background is diverse, ranging from being a hands-on entrepreneur to coaching businesses. I help clients view their products or services from a potential customer’s perspective, stress test their offerings and understand their customers or end users. I provide constructive and empathetic feedback on the barriers they face in their entrepreneurial journey, helping them build resilience and maintain a persevering business attitude.
What do you enjoy most about supporting clients?
Each client brings a unique blend of business, personality and role within their company. I thoroughly enjoy discovering how their innovations can potentially create life-changing impacts for people both in the UK and abroad. Supporting clients in the early stages of their business journey is crucial to shaping the direction and success of their ventures.
What do you enjoy most about your role at Newable?
The role is both exciting and challenging on many levels. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, ensuring that no two days are the same. My time at Newable has flown by, thanks to the abundance of exciting opportunities. Recently, I’ve been managing a supply chain project, which leverages my previous experience in public procurement. It’s been thrilling to share my expertise with local suppliers in London.
Additionally, I am leading a Quantum Innovation programme, taking delegates to the Netherlands to meet potential partners for collaboration. This project has been eye-opening, allowing me to interact with highly intelligent and experienced individuals, each holding at least three degrees. I’m gradually getting to grips with their quantum terminology. Working at Newable has truly given me the chance to give back and support other businesses. I take great pride in this role, as we are all contributing to supporting the UK economy.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
My family occupies most of my time, but when I have a moment to spare, I enjoy hiking in the Chiltern Hills. On a typical weekend, I might walk fifteen miles. Living near the River Thames, I also get the chance to join a friend for river rides in a amphibious car during the summer months or at the Henley Regatta.
Please tell us a fun/interesting fact about yourself?
I collect glass jam jars and have accumulated over 100 because I can’t bear to throw them in the recycling bin—I plan to pursue jam-making one day (that’s my excuse, anyway!). Additionally, I am a trustee of a children’s charity called Rosie’s Rainbow Fund, which uses music therapy to help make sick children in hospitals feel better. One day, I hope to invest in an amphibious car and cruise along the River Thames with family and friends on a hot summer day!
Visit our website to find out more about how advisers like Rifat could help you and your business.
About Newable
For over four decades, Newable has been supporting thousands of businesses every year through the provision of Money, Advice and Workspace. An employee-owned business with a commitment to creating positive impact in all that we do, our team are on hand to help your business today.