Results-driven omnichannel merchant and consultant with extensive experience in strategic planning, retail management, and business development. Proven track record of cultivating successful partnerships, driving revenue growth, and delivering exceptional customer experiences. Entrepreneurial mindset, adept at identifying opportunities and mitigating risks. Expertise in team management, retail operations, merchandise planning, data analytics, and international brand launches.
• Head of sales, wholesale, and merchandise planning departments for the luxury pajama brand • Senior member of the corporate strategic planning board overseeing the development of the omnichannel growth strategy • Full responsibility for company-wide commercial plans (adults & children) • Launched brand successfully in new international markets - with a focus on Europe, North America and the Middle East (key partners include Neiman Marcus, Farfetch, the Net-a-Porter group, Urban Outfitters, Selfridges, Browns Fashion, Matches Fashion, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Shopbop, Al Tayer Group) • Hired and developed all members of the merchandise planning & wholesale teams • Full ownership over the OTB, responsible for the entirety of the buying process and inventory management, in line with range plans
A retail consulting agency providing strategic planning, in-house training, and bespoke monthly support for high-growth start-ups and established creative brands looking to scale their D2C and B2B sales channels. www.rachelralston.co
• Responsible for the wholesale development of Gucci timepieces and jewellery within 24 European countries • Created and implemented strategies by country in order to maximise sales in a cost effective manner • Defined integrated sales plans per country, per category, in line with corporate budgetary requirements • Provided distributors with active marketing, training, and service support in order to satisfy local needs and improve overall performance • Coordinated all operational activities by country to achieve sales objectives
• Managed and developed the Gucci watch and jewellery business within various chain and department stores including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue • Created assortments for each account based on selling history, demographics, and the Gucci brand vision • Projected annual merchandise needs in conjunction with supply chain to ensure deliveries for all accounts • Oversaw the training and development of Account Executives and Herald Square Shop Manager • Identified and communicated ongoing trend and market needs to Merchandising • Partnered with the Training Manager to develop & implement seasonal training and product knowledge materials
• Managed topline and assortment planning for Michael Kors within all Macy’s locations • Created plans by door to ensure proper inventory flow and customized assortments by location (over 600 locations) • Responsible for long term growth plans (3-5 Yrs.) and the identification of expansion opportunities to reach financial thresholds • Forecasted receipts of replenishment product to minimise markdown percentages and ensure responsible inventory ownership • Maintained the Open-to-Buys and re-projected seasonal and annual targets after actualizing each month • Successfully negotiated with Macy’s management for additional receipts, floor space, staffing costs, and advertising contributions • Integral member of Planning Task Force charged with sourcing and implementing new financial planning system
• Responsible for merchandise development, marketing, and financial management of the Tee Department • Analysed and reacted to selling trends via reorders, swaps, and RTVs; performed class level sales-to-stock analyses resulting in a 10% sales and 2 point gross margin increase • Managed direct report (Merchant Assistant)
• Responsible for the implementation of a new, company-wide, size allocation program • Drove sales, increased productivity of inventory, and improved gross margin by identifying and maximising the impact of localised size assortment strategies