Resourceful Buyer and Visual Merchandiser with extensive experience in end-to-end retail operations within a dynamic boutique environment. At Utopia, a small-scale retailer with a chain of shops on short-term leases, I was entrusted with a multifaceted role encompassing store launches, product selection and procurement, visual merchandising, and team management. I traveled extensively to Paris and London to source unique stock, ensuring our offerings were aligned with current trends and customer preferences. Additionally, I managed inventory across multiple locations, coordinated in-store and online operations, and utilized digital platforms to engage with customers and drive sales. This hands-on experience has honed my adaptability, creativity, and strategic planning skills, enabling me to contribute effectively to various facets of retail operations.
• Boosted visibility of 40+ charity shops through curated digital listings • Managed imports and product listings, with a focus on high-turnover stock • Enhanced product appeal through styling, photography, and content creation CT Global Freight Audit / IBM – EMEA
-Visual Merchandising & Store Management: Lead the visual merchandising for multiple locations, ensuring an attractive and cohesive brand presentation that aligns with Utopia Womenswear's identity. Oversee the layout, window displays, and product placement to enhance the customer shopping experience. -Buying & Inventory Management: Manage the buying process, including selecting new merchandise, negotiating with suppliers, and maintaining strong relationships with key brands and vendors. Monitor inventory levels, ensuring stock is aligned with sales forecasts and market demand. -Sales & Profitability: Maximize sales by ensuring product availability and visibility, driving promotional activities, and managing seasonal stock to meet targets. Collaborate with the sales team to identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling. -Staff Leadership & Training: Supervise and motivate the store team, ensuring they are knowledgeable about product offerings and customer service standards. Provide training on sales techniques, product knowledge, and visual merchandising best practices. -Customer Experience: Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction by maintaining a welcoming store environment, resolving customer issues, and promoting loyalty programs. -Trend Analysis & Market Research: Keep up with the latest fashion trends and market demands to inform buying decisions. Regularly review competitor activities and customer feedback to ensure Utopia Womenswear stays competitive in the retail landscape. -Store Performance & Reporting: Track and analyze sales data, stock turnover, and customer feedback. Provide regular reports to management on store performance, including areas for improvement and potential growth opportunities. -Online Presence & Sales: Oversee the Utopia Womenswear website, ensuring product listings are up to date with accurate descriptions, prices, and images. Manage online sales activities, including promotions and product updates, to drive e-commerce growth. Maintain and regularly update the broadcast list to engage customers through email campaigns, product announcements, and promotions. Use customer data to tailor communication, boost customer retention, and increase both online and in-store traffic.
• Oversaw international logistics and retail supply chains for global clients • Acted as key liaison between clients and 3PL/4PL providers across Europe • Led digital tool implementation and process optimization