NICOLA O'ROURKE

In September 2011 I left my successful career as a Fashion Buyer and using my retail buying and technical experience launched Mathilda Rose. Mathilda Rose is now the leading luxury Bridal Boutique in the South East of England serving Brides from all over the UK and Worldwide having recently been awarded as "Best Bridal Retailer" (South East region) 2019 at the prestigious Wedding Industry Awards. Mathilda Rose also holds double Gold Premium retailer status awarded to a select group of retailers by the world leading wedding dress manufacturer Maggie Sottero.

I manage the day to day running of the retail store including the stylists and seamstresses. I also manage all orders and communication from and to both Mathilda Rose customers and suppliers.

Responsible for the technical development & performance of £30million pounds of retail stock per annum. Accounts included House of Fraser, John Lewis, French Connection, Oasis, Sainsbury's and Asda.

Specific responsibilities included; Quality Control, Factory Audits, Product development, Cost price negotiation, Sourcing, Brand strategy, Supply base management, Critical path management, Overseas sourcing and development trips.

Range planning and development to reinforce brand image whilst ensuring quality standards and achieving optimum sales value.

Specific responsibilities included; Quality Control, Sales analysis, Product development, Range Planning, Cost price negotiation, Sourcing, Brand strategy, Trend Analysis, Supply base management, Critical path management, Overseas sourcing and development trips.

I began working at M&S on the shop floor whilst studying at Central St Martins before gaining a place on their Buying Graduate Scheme. During my time at M&S I progressed to become a Fashion Buyer responsible for the selection and technical development of Girls Outerwear, Swimwear, Dresses and Knitwear. My comprehensive training and buying role included regular factory visits to garment manufacturing facilities and I worked closely with the Garment Technologist attending weekly fitting sessions to sign off pattern, quality standards and fit guidelines for all of the products in my range. In addition I attended regular sourcing and key development meetings with my Fabric Technologist to agree all fabric qualities and design.