JAMES FORSYTH
Burnley,Lancashire
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven retail leader with over 17 years of progressive experience, including 11 years in the football industry. Proven track record of driving revenue growth, leading high-performing teams, and delivering innovative retail solutions. Recognized for strategic vision, operational excellence, and a relentless commitment to customer satisfaction. Adept at building strong supplier partnerships and executing complex projects with precision and an eye for detail.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Retail Consultant (Owner of FC Consultancy)
FC Consultancy
2023.03 - 2026.05
- Working as a freelance retail consultant
- Working with key clients (Burnley FC and The Terrace)
- Utilising my retail skill set to oversee the running of several retail ops partnerships
Head of Retail and Buyer
Burnley Football club
2014.09 - 2023.03
- In this role i was in complete control of all aspects of the running of the retail and buying
- Overseen the building of a new store
- Tripled turnover in my time at the club
- More than doubled shirt sales
- Created and nurtured relationships with suppliers to offer one of the best ranges in the PL
- Overseen change of kit supplier,taking the lead of the deal and RFP process
- Overseen full rebuild and re-structure of epos and back office
- Grown the online from 12% to 30% over my time at the club
Megastore Manager
Footasylum
Manchester
2013.10 - 2014.07
- Manager of the flagship store in the Manchester Arndale centre
- In this role managed a team of at it's peak 80 staff members
- Worked closely with Head Office in helping create the company wide brief and merchandising plans
Store Manager
JD Sports
2009.12 - 2013.10
- Worked my way from xmas temp through to store manager in my time with JD
- Specialised as a in store merchandiser
Education
Secondary School -
Kingsway High School
1994.09 - 1999.06
Skills
- Leadership
- Product development
- Decision making
- E-Commerce
- Customer Service
- Budget and Target setting
- Buying
- Strong Communication
- Adaptability
- Supply chain supervision
- Product launch strategy
REFERENCES
Available upon request
GCSE'S
- Mathematics
- English Literature
- English Language
- Science
Timeline
Retail Consultant (Owner of FC Consultancy)
FC Consultancy
2023.03 - 2026.05
Head of Retail and Buyer
Burnley Football club
2014.09 - 2023.03
Megastore Manager
Footasylum
2013.10 - 2014.07
Store Manager
JD Sports
2009.12 - 2013.10
Secondary School -
Kingsway High School
1994.09 - 1999.06