Damla Kara Email & Phone Number

Istanbul, Turkey

• Leading a €24 million annual business volume encompassing diverse product categories, including jersey, denim, knitwear, woven, underwear/lingerie, seamless, and accessories (socks/tights, belt/bags).• Acting as the primary liaison between HQ's Buying Team and the supply market, focusing on business development by establishing efficient sourcing channels.• Coordinating interactions between the buying team and suppliers, particularly in the areas of new collection proposals and offer presentations.• Analysing sales figures and followed trends to provide ideas and suggestions to the buying team and suppliers for ongoing and future seasons.• Proactively engaged with the market to challenge and expand the supplier base, emphasizing cost-effectiveness, higher quality, and dynamic structures.• Monitoring the supply market continually, identifying potential suppliers and exploring new product categories.• Developing innovative products in response to trends and market gaps, conducting research on fabric, material, techniques, and styling developments.• Managed and organized Bestseller Academy Apprentice Trips in Turkey, introducing participants to the intricacies of jersey and denim production. Coordinated comprehensive experiences and workshops to provide insights into the manufacturing processes, fostering a deeper understanding of the industry dynamics.

Aarhus, Middle Jutland, Denmark

• Assisted in collaborative efforts with design, sales, and E-commerce teams to meet seasonal needs.• Supported the smooth flow of information between suppliers, purchasing, sales, marketing, and operations.• Contributed to the development of new styles in conjunction with buyers and salespeople.• Learned and followed sampling and production processes for the Express department, gaining exposure across various locations like Turkey, China, India, and Bangladesh.• Participated in fitting sessions with pattern designers and buyers, providing constructive feedback.• Assisted in the coordination of tasks such as creating style cards, placing sample orders, and organizing assortments.• Gained hands-on experience in handling quality control, color, trimming, and workmanship approvals for sampling and production, working closely with experienced team members.• Observed and learned negotiation skills for discussing style details, prices, and lead-times with suppliers to ensure optimal deals.

Istanbul, Turkey

• Improving existing suppliers' performance by analysing KPIs and guiding them to align their operations with company objectives.• Negotiating for the best price deals to secure targeted mark-ups for high-quality products.• Managing the product life cycle, providing color, quality, trim, and fit approvals during both sampling and production stages.• Leading various training initiatives for a diverse supplier base in alignment with company requirements.• Pioneering the management of the supplier quality process until the establishment of a dedicated department, subsequently collaborating closely with them to exchange know-how.

Istanbul, Turkey

• Supported in organizing meetings with global partners and supporters, contributing to relationship building and collaboration efforts.• Assisted in communication efforts with national and international NGOs, project stakeholders, and interested parties, enhancing outreach and engagement.• Contributed to reporting on issues within the EU funded project: ”Development of the ENV.net in West Balkans and Turkey: giving citizens a voice to influence the environmental process reforms for closer EU integration”, demonstrating attention to detail and analytical skills.• Engaged in monitoring international publications and preparing informational materials on global activities and agendas, fostering awareness within the organization and relevant departments.

Bachelor'S Degree, Political Science And International Relations, Honors Student 3.03/4.00

Activities and Societies: Business Club, Yildiz Solidarity

High School Diploma