Highly experienced Merchandising leader with 22 years experience in the retail industry. Commercial and analytical professional, with deep knowledge and expertise across the end-to-end planning, buying and merchandising lifecycles - translating these effectively and profitably across both digital and store channels. With my innate understanding and passion for Merchandising, I have recently moved into a consultancy role to guide, influence and support brands to deliver and achieve commercial success. As a freelance Merchandising expert, I support companies of all sizes through implementing merchandising processes and setting up tools to drive efficiencies. My varied experience across short and long lead times, and numerous product categories allows me to overcome issues, propose solutions and make commercial decisions for any brand. I have outstanding financial acumen, strong planning, forecasting and budgeting skills, and dedication to driving productivity through simplified processes. I am a highly efficient and organised professional, with meticulous attention to detail. As a freelance Merchandising expert, I can be as hands on as the client wants, working independently or collaboratively as part of their team - on a set day per week, or on an hourly basis.
Last year I set up my own merchandising consulting business, providing expert support to brands of all sizes ● Implement new merchandising processes and tools that are specific to each client, such as range planning, line cards, financial reporting, purchase ordering, forecasting, pricing strategy and margin analysis ● Identify present and future opportunities and deliver recommendations to maximise sales and profit, whilst managing stocks effectively ● I can be as hands on as the client wants, or work independently on a set day per week, or on an hourly basis. ● Current clients : Etta Loves, Secret Saviours
Oversaw an annual turnover of £770m across Fashion brands at John Lewis ● Led, coached and trained a team of 15 Merchandisers to maximise sales, sell through and gross margin through strategic analysis, planning and stock management ● Set the 3 year strategy with sales and stock budgets across all categories to deliver long term business growth ● Following Head Office transformation, improved merchandising processes and tools to ensure teams are working efficiently and consistently (margin models, range plans, OTB management, WSSI, line cards and trade reporting) ● Led the weekly and monthly Trade and BTA meetings with category buyers and merchandisers, reviewing all commercial KPIs, and capitalising on trading opportunities, whilst minimising risk ● Deputised for the Fashion Head of Merchandising, working alongside other Merchandise Leads, Heads of Category and Business Managers, and reporting into the Merchandising Director
● Leading the buying and merchandising teams across various buying offices at John Lewis, including Nursery & Baby, Lingerie, Nightwear & Swimwear, Boyswear, Handbags & Purses. ● Set and delivered strategy for all the offices I led and managed, and worked with Senior Leaders internally and externally throughout its execution.
● Executed a customer focused, formal and casual assortment for tall women, growing sales +39% YoY
● Positions on Jasper Conran, Matthew Williamson and Own Brand Collection
● Positions on Mens and Ladies Casualwear