United Kingdom
A results driven individual with a combination of business development, buying, merchandising and new product development skills gained in senior trading positions in retail, wholesale, mail order and direct response. Significant experience in overseas sourcing of finished goods and componentry. An accomplished manager, trainer, coach and mentor having led large teams including buying, merchandising, supply chain and design. Key Skills • Overseas sourcing from Far East, India and Europe – regularly visiting these areas. • Management of large teams including Buying, Merchandising, Design, Supply Chain and Quality. • New product development and introduction – leading creative teams. • FMCG, General Merchandise and Seasonal product range ownership. • Parallel trading. • Strong negotiating skills at all levels up to CEO. • Margin and cost control - developing and managing budgets. • Experience of branded, own label, private label and licensed ranges. • Operated in discount and premium sectors. • Cross functional working and matrix management. • Major account sales and private label development. • Accomplished networker maintaining up to date industry knowledge and connections.
In August 2015 I took on a group role encompassing the management of the Buying Teams for the Star Global Group including both Star Perfumes and Jigsaw International. Jigsaw produce and distribute Licenced, Branded, own label, and private label ranges of fragrance, toiletries and gift sets.
Star Global Trading is an owner managed operation specialising in the distribution of fragrance and health and beauty. In this role my remit was to develop a buying strategy to meet the changing requirements of customers across retail, mail order and internet channels in the UK, Europe, Turkey, The Balkans and Australia and to take over responsibility for all purchasing from the owner / Chairman.