Samantha Taylor has more than fifteen years of fashion industry experience, the last ten of which were focused on merchandising. Samantha was up until recently, the senior US buyer for THE OUTNET, a division of The Net-A-Porter Group, focused on increasing market share, improving customer experience, and responsible for 80+ brands. She previously held the role of Women’s Contemporary Designer Buyer for David Jones, responsible for 34 department stores, and not only purchased local and international labels but was also instrumental in significantly increasing revenue and profit for this division.Her ability to translate the latest trends into business growth, coupled with her understanding of key merchandise and financial planning principles, led her to be awarded ‘Buyer of the Year’ in 2009. This award was determined according to the best financial results in gross profit, sales, stock turn, gross margin return and aged stock.Samantha has exceptional management skills, has successfully negotiated vendor trading term agreements including brand acquisitions, and worked collaboratively with internal counterparts to achieve successful results in all facets of merchandising. Samantha’s understanding of market needs is strong and her personal style encapsulates awareness of customer requirements and fine distinct merchandise, while achieving positive outcomes.Samantha is now in the process of launching a lifestyle blog which incorporates her perspective across fashion, beauty, travel, food, art, music and fitness globally.