I have always had a curious mind, especially when it comes to the hidden meaning and subtext of images and peoples actions (Yes- I am that person that will watch the Directors commentaries on films, or behind the scenes videos to find the deeper meanings to the artistic choices they made)I apply that curiosity to my work within Visual Merchandising, where I have enjoyed over 15 successful years within the fashion retail world. From decoding and adapting visual strategies to creating new guidelines that help businesses grow their sales, grow their brands, and express their identity, I am a detailed orientated problem solver that loves nothing more than transforming stores to highly engaging and exciting shopping environments.I have extensive experience implementing merchandising strategies in the UK and US markets. I have been responsible for the strategic planning and execution of merchandising, researching competitors and implementing competitive business intelligence, creating instructional design and providing training, as well as client relations and product launches. I have trained teams on brand principles, identity, and history across the US in both Topshop and Nordstrom and have fostered development and training strategies to develop talented merchandisers and managers. I monitor gaps in procedural knowledge and create processes and training guidelines that adhere to the brand identity and mission. My training materials have been distributed to over 100 retail stores in the global marketplace and some of my training materials are now being used for visual merchandising courses taught at Glasgow University. I support the brand by staying current on trends in the fashion and retail markets. I utilize online content, social networks and media to research current trends so that I can effectively drive products to target audiences in a retail environment. I was part of a team that developed a plan to integrate the Topshop brand with Nordstrom in a national big box retail environment in the Midwest and Northeastern US. I have been involved with the launch of approximately 150 stores and led the launch of the brand within over 50 Nordstrom stores, gaining buy in from key stakeholders both from Topshop corporate and Nordstrom on the client side. Above all, I am a creative problem solver who is accomplished in transforming market research and data analysis into compelling product journeys for retail customers that ensure sales results. I hold a B.A. in Media Production and graduated with honors from the University of Lincoln in the United Kingdom.
Listed skills include Visual Merchandising, Styling, Video Production, Personal Development, and 30 others.
