THE 2026 TEAM
The aim of the Conference Planning Committee is to ensure that future conference hosts are supported whilst planning each year's event.
The Group will be responsible for providing best practice templates and technical advice, leaving hosts confident that they are not alone when offering to host future conferences.
THE 2026 PLANNING TEAM
Philip Taylor
Trading as The Cordwainer, Philip is a bespoke orthopaedic shoemaker from Derbyshire, UK. He has hosted previous conferences in 2005, 2011 and 2020. Philip is a member of the Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers.
Mike Watson-Smith
Mike is the serving Trade Warden of the Worshipful Company of Pattenmakers. He retired from the footwear industry after 44 years including 14 years as Global Sourcing Director at Dr Marten's Shoes.
Jackie Crawford
After attaining a bachelors degree in fine art, Jackie went on to a career in graphic design. When her son was born with club feet, Jackie turned her attentions to orthopaedic shoemaking and has just completed the online course with Bill Bird.
Jemitra Hairston
Originally from North Carolina, Jemitra now lives in South Wales. Jemitra studied shoemaking with James Ducker and Brian Harvey and has also recently completed Bill Bird's online course.
Elizabeth Dugmore
Originally a technical translator, Lizzy now studies shoemaking at Capel Manor College. She has to wear a raise to her shoes and is keen to develop her skills as an orthopaedic shoemaker.
Robert Covaciu
Robert works with one of the city of London's long established firms. He is currently enroled on Bill Bird's apprenticeship scheme.