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 earning a bachelor's degree from Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia, Jackie went on to pursue a career in graphic design. Years ago, her son was born with Moebius syndrome, a rare congenital neurological disorder that can impact the formation of feet and hands. As he grew, Jackie became acutely aware of just how challenging it is for those with orthopaedic conditions to find comfortable, fashionable footwear—so she decided to do something about it. After years of learning the craft of shoemaking, Jackie went on to study with Bill Bird and completed the Pattenmaker's Certificate in Orthopaedic Footwear.
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.
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.