Ruggero Quarta, Head Of Men's Division At Elite Milan
Ruggero Quarta leads the men’s booking team at Elite Milan, looking after the ever-evolving roster of models. His daily tasks include discovering new talents all over the world, and guiding the Elite models in taking their career to the highest levels. We talked to Ruggero to learn more about how he landed a place in the industry, his advice to aspiring models and what he does to relax away from the booking desk.
What do you look for in the applicants at the EML Italia 2019 castings?
I'm looking for guys who have the right characteristics to become successful models with our guidance ... that is, who have the look that fashion brands are looking for today and a strong personality that allows them to emerge in the fashion world that is increasingly competitive.
Have you always wanted to work in the model industry?
Actually no, on the contrary, I was studying to become an educator in the social field! However, during my studies, I worked part time for a well-known fashion agency. That’s how it all started!
How has your background helped?
My studies have helped me understand the importance of empathy. In my work, empathy is fundamental both in the daily relationship with the models, and with the clients, and it helps to establish solid relationships between people, and strong personal relationships are what good business is built on!
What do you love about your job?
What I like the best is the same as what I like the least, and it is the unpredictability of the work! On the one hand, that is precisely what gives you a lot of energy, but on the other hand causes also a lot of stress! That same unpredictability means you are constantly problem-solving and finding great ideas to meet the clients’ needs while building brilliant careers for the boys.
Who or what inspires you to succeed?
I am inspired by the boys' enthusiasm and desire to see their dreams come true.
What are your passions outside work?
I love all sports, I like to be fit and in particular I love snowboarding...I'm now teaching my daughter to skate! In my free time I love to read and go to modern art exhibitions with my family.
If you hadn't done your job, what would you have done?
Photography has always fascinated me, but in a completely different direction - I would have loved to become a lawyer!
What advice do you give to those who sign up for EML?
Always believing in yourself is the advice I give to all the guys I meet. If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will!
