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