PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
A people-first retail leader who lives and breathes fashion, with a career built from the ground up spanning wholesale dynamics, global shipping, and the front lines of luxury customer service. Bringing a unique, end-to-end understanding of the fashion ecosystem to the sales floor, this hands-on manager doesn't just lead from the back, but works side-by-side with staff to keep energy high, deliver exceptional service, and consistently exceed KPIs. Highly organised and tech-savvy, with a proven track record of mastering EPOS and inventory systems in fast-paced environments, balance a sharp eye for commercial trends and stock optimisation with a genuine commitment to mentorship. By blending a problem-solving mindset with a passion for fostering client loyalty and building strong relationships, create an inviting, high-performance store atmosphere that naturally drives revenue growth and maximises profitability.
Hi, I’m
Louise Chantrell Aiken
London,Brent
Summary
Overview
21
years of professional experience
Work History
FreelanceLondon
Wholesale Manager & Logistics
10.2024 - 04.2026
Job overview
- Operations & Account Management: Managed end-to-end wholesale operations, logistics, and premium client relationships for leading contemporary brands and showrooms, including Hayley Menzies, Palladio Associates and Egomark Fashion Showrooms
- Supply Chain & System Efficiency: Coordinated high-volume order processing, e-commerce and global shipping via Airbox Fulfillment, utilising ERP and inventory software including Mintsoft and Zedonk to streamline workflows.
- Major Accounts Compliance: Spearheaded vendor compliance and complex delivery logistics for prestigious major retailers, including Harrods, Liberty London, and John Lewis.
- Commercial Growth: Delivered exceptional, high-level customer care during periods of rapid brand expansion, successfully driving a 20% increase in sales targets within a single season.
- Brand Representation: Presented seasonal collections, cultivated strong buyer relationships, and actively represented brands at major industry trade shows, including Scoop and Harrogate.
- CRM Optimisation: Data-mapped, regularly reviewed, and updated CRM systems to ensure optimal database health, significantly improving communication efficiency and workflow productivity.
Sub CoutureNotting Hill, London
Director & Sales Manager
12.2004 - 09.2024
Job overview
- Founded and developed Sub Couture from fashion label into multi-site retail business, operating stores in Hyper Hyper (Kensington High Street), Notting Hill and Stroud.
- Built recognised designer brand with wholesale distribution to over 100 global stockists, including Harrods, Nordstrom, and Selfridges concession.
- Opened and ran flagship Notting Hill boutique with full responsibility for buying, retail operations, e-commerce and overall business performance.
- Launched and managed 1,000 sq ft Stroud store in partnership with Dransfield Properties, leading full concept development, life style fit-out and community positioning.
- Curated distinctive mix of designer fashion, own-label collections, and lifestyle products including upcycled furniture, creating destination retail experience.
- Led all buying and supplier negotiations, managing margins, delivery schedules and long-term brand partnerships across retail and wholesale.
- Architected a rapid scale-up strategy that drove wholesale turnover from £90k to £1m within 2 years.
- Developed omnichannel operations in 2020, implementing EPOS systems, Shopify e-commerce and integrated stock control platforms, generating circa £150k in online sales.
- Oversaw all logistics including stockroom operations, international shipping, customs procedures, and wholesale distribution.
- Planned and executed trade shows and exhibitions including London Fashion Week and Tranoï Paris, managing logistics, staffing and brand presentation.
- Built, trained and led high-performing teams delivering exceptional service to loyal, high-net-worth client base.
- Embedded sustainable practices within retail operations, sourcing environmentally responsible fixtures and promoting conscious, community-led retail.
- Achieved industry recognition including Drapers Record “Best Independent Shop” award and nominations for regional retail excellence.
Education
London College of Fashion
BTEC National Diploma from Business of Fashion
University Overview
Skills
- Retail & Store Management: Daily operations, performance metrics, and luxury boutique oversight
Wholesale & Logistics (B2B/B2C): Complex supply chain management, fulfillment, and distribution
Client Relationship Management: Nurturing high-value accounts and luxury-tier customer service
Project & Event Management: Executing creative projects and high-profile events from concept to completion
Budget & Financial Management: Cost control, budget oversight, and driving profitability
Visual Merchandising & Styling: Curating high-impact displays aligned with brand identity
Team Leadership & Training: Recruitment, mentorship, and managing high-performing teams
Process Improvement: Streamlining workflows and solving logistical bottlenecks
Systems & Tech: Proficient in inventory software, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Canva
Timeline
Wholesale Manager & Logistics
Freelance
10.2024 - 04.2026
Director & Sales Manager
Sub Couture
12.2004 - 09.2024
London College of Fashion
BTEC National Diploma from Business of Fashion