Fashion Buying Director
Intro
With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, Gregg has established himself as a dynamic Buying Director specialising in menswear. Gregg’s career is built on innovation, consumer insight, and strategic excellence.
As Buying Director, I excelled in crafting and executing buying strategies that drove profitability and growth. My deep knowledge of market research and data analysis enabled me to curate product selections that resonated with consumers and anticipate market trends. My experience spans both retail and e-commerce, allowing me to respond swiftly and effectively to changing trends and consumer behaviours.
I have the personal attributes to build strong, lasting relationships working closely with suppliers and brands. I have the professional ability to negotiate exclusive terms that enhance product offerings and maximise ROI. My strategic approach ensures a balance between trendsetting items and core products, fostering sustainable sales and enduring customer loyalty.
With a profound understanding of fashion cycles and their interplay with economic and market conditions, I devise long-term strategies that align with both industry trends and business objectives. My leadership and vision have consistently delivered outstanding results, positioning brands at the forefront of the menswear market.
Passionate about menswear and driven by a commitment to excellence, I am dedicated to pushing the boundaries of fashion buying. My ambition is to bring my extensive experience, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication to a forward-thinking team in London, continuing to drive success and innovation in the industry.
Work
Professional Experience
Buying Director
Zee + Co Ltd
Identify growth opportunities with brands and emerging categories, driving strategic partnerships and market expansion.
Collaborate with the directorial team to set pre-plans and budgets, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
Oversee all processes related to buys and orders placed, optimising efficiency and accuracy.
Develop a customer-centric approach and foster brand synergy across interdepartmental buys, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Analyse year-on-year performance and ROI across buying categories, implementing data-driven strategies to maximise profitability.
Actively participate in trade shows, expanding the industry presence and visibility of the Zee & Co Brand.
2021 - 2024
Head Buyer
Zee + Co Ltd
Lead and organise the Buying Department/team to ensure seamless operations.
Source brands and initiate contact with prospective brands to drive new business opportunities.
Identify and report on emerging style and market trends to inform strategic decision-making.
Monitor and effectively manage inventory, reorders, and seasonal stock quantities to optimise stock levels and meet customer demand.
2017 - 2021
Buyer
Zee + Co Ltd
2010 - 2017
Manage tasks within tight deadlines and adhere to schedules effectively.
Coordinate team diaries and make travel arrangements efficiently.
Conduct performance analysis and carefully manage Open-To-Buy (OTB) budgets.
Place orders and maintain forward order books accurately.
Collaborate with the Head of Department to implement buying strategies.
Negotiate payment terms, discounts, and extended terms to optimise financial outcomes.
Other Roles
Assistant Buyer - 2005 - 2010 (Held simultaneously with Store Manager position)
Store Manager - 2002 - 2008
Assistant Store Manager - Pre 2008
Senior Sales Advisor
Junior Sales Advisor
Warehouse Distributor
Zee + Co Ltd
1998 - 2010
Skills
Expert skills in JOOR and NuOrder for efficient order curation and placement
Advanced knowledge in Excel and Google Docs
Exceptional communication skills
Expertise in building and maintaining client and supplier relationships
Strong abilities in contract negotiation
Highly skilled in budget planning and financial management
Enthusiastic, realistic and methodical approach to planning and problem solving
Over 25 years of combined experience in Fashion Buying and Retail
Strong commercial analytical skills with an ability to implement and follow through on strategies
Education
GCSES
LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA IN
GRAPHIC DESIGN
References
Joann Johnstone
Managing Director
Zee & Co Ltd
Available on request
Tom Reynolds
Creative Director
Zee & Co Ltd
Available on request