Olivia Jane Holt
Combe Martin,Devon
Summary
Accomplished professional specializing in supplier evaluation and technical product knowledge. Proven ability to cultivate supplier relationships and lead projects, utilizing data-driven strategies to enhance supply chain efficiency. Expertise in market analysis, global sourcing, and category management, with a strong record of performance under pressure. Focused on improving supplier management strategies and achieving successful project results.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work history
Buyer
Saltrock
Braunton, Devon
2015.04 - Current
- Ensured timely delivery of products, maintaining customer satisfaction levels high.
- Evaluated product performance regularly; ensured alignment with business needs.
- For cost-efficiency, sourced products from various international suppliers.
- Monitored market fluctuations to make informed buying decisions.
- Analysed market trends to anticipate product demand.
- Boosted supplier relationships by negotiating contracts and terms.
- Assessed potential suppliers, ensuring quality and reliability.
- Developed purchasing strategies to meet company objectives and goals effectively.
- Monitored delivery progress and contacted clients and suppliers to minimise delivery delays.
- Assisted with staff development by implementing effective, hands-on training programmes for new employees, maximising performance and engagement from day one.
- Managed sample development, ensuring adherence to design specifications and timelines.
- Confirmed compliance with safety standards for consumer protection.
- Evaluated potential risks associated with new materials or designs before implementation in final products.
- Collaborated closely with design team, facilitating seamless integration of technology and fashion.
- Streamlined production process to enhance efficiency.
- Handled troubleshooting tasks during production process, minimising downtime and maintaining workflow efficiency.
- Conducted regular factory visits to supervise quality control measures directly on site.
- Managed the critical path, highlighting potential issues for effective and efficient resolution.
- Identified manufacturing issues quickly to minimise lost time and resources.
- Evaluated product performance and advised on improvement strategies.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion.
- Liaised effectively with suppliers to secure best prices and delivery times.
- Piloted cross-functional collaborations, enhancing teamwork and productivity.
- Identified potential improvements through meticulous competitor analysis.
- Selected, trained and performance-managed research and development staff.
Buying Assistant
Oasis
London
2008.01 - 2014.01
- Assisted in budget planning to control expenses.
- Researched market trends for improved purchasing decisions.
- Collaborated cross-functionally on projects resulting in successful delivery.
- Kept abreast of industry changes to stay competitive.
- Streamlined purchase orders with efficient tracking system.
- Improved supplier relationships with regular communication.
- Kept up-to-date knowledge and complied with purchasing and contracting regulations.
- Evaluated product sales performance to provide accurate reports and identify improvement opportunities.
- Successfully managed stock distribution for increased product availability.
- Collaborated closely with buying teams for optimal stock selection.
- Developed a successful merchandise strategy by analysing sales and customer data.
- Liaised with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of merchandise.
- Monitored competitor activity, resulting in more effective pricing strategies.
- Analysed sales reports regularly, identifying opportunities for growth.
- Led weekly trade meetings to drive branch merchandising activities.
- Improved store performance with effective allocation and replenishment of products.
- Recommended adjustments to pricing strategies based on market demand and competitor pricing.
- Promoted from [Job title] to Senior Merchandiser within [Timeframe].
- Managed stock levels for optimum product availability.
- Coordinated with team members for efficient workflow, reducing production time.
- Identified potential improvements in existing products by comprehensive evaluation.
Flagship store manager
Monsoon UK
London
2004.01 - 2008.12
- Oversaw recruitment process of new employees, contributing to a motivated workforce.
- Managed daily operations of fashion store with emphasis on sales target achievement.
- Handled inventory management, ensuring well-stocked and visually appealing merchandise displays.
- Facilitated weekly team meetings focusing on sales targets, product knowledge and upcoming promotions.
- Monitored market trends, then adapted the product mix accordingly for maximum profit potential.
- Balanced cash registers and prepared bank deposits, maintaining accurate financial records.
- Promoted an exceptional level of customer service resulting in repeat business and loyalty from customers.
- Implemented visual merchandising standards in line with brand's aesthetic to attract customers.
- Coordinated staff training to improve product knowledge and customer service skills.
- Reduced loss levels through implementation of stringent security measures across the store.
- Dealt with customer queries, complaints and issues promptly and professionally.
- Conducted regular performance reviews providing constructive feedback to empower team growth.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations within store premises for staff welfare.
- Completed opening and closing procedures each day.
- Maintained store cleanliness with detailed checklists and periodic inspections.
- Guaranteed excellent customer service standards, training team in performance and sales strategy.
- Monitored stock levels, managing inventories and logistics to maximise sales potential.
- Processed deliveries quickly to refresh sales floor selections.
- Increased average transaction value by promoting coordinating items and accessories.
- Kept business in compliance with internal controls, industry regulations and health and safety requirements.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards through diligent auditing practices.
- Improved risk management by conducting comprehensive internal audits.
- Recommended changes to existing procedures with key stakeholders, implementing more efficient practices.
- Successfully delivered on tasks within tight deadlines.
- Worked flexible hours, covering nights, weekends and bank holidays.
- Offered friendly, efficient customer service and handled challenging situations with ease.
- Displayed energy and enthusiasm in fast-paced environment.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Organised training sessions for new employees, ensuring a smooth onboarding process.
- Oversaw payroll administration to ensure timely and accurate payments for staff members.
- Created job descriptions that accurately reflect role responsibilities and expectations.
- Guided line managers on performance management issues; maintained high level of productivity across organisation.
- Managed staff grievances to maintain harmonious workplace environment.
- Created engaging induction programmes for smooth onboarding process.
- Interviewed and hired staff fitting job and team requirements.
Sales Manager
House of Fraser
London
2003.01 - 2004.01
- Facilitated staff training, resulting in better customer service.
- Supervised project timelines for timely completion.
- Coordinated cross-departmental collaboration for improved workflow.
- Sourced unique fashion items to meet individual client preferences.
- Communicated effectively with clients to understand their needs better.
- Coordinated clothing alterations, achieving perfect fit for clients.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalised shopping services.
- Managed client appointments efficiently to maximise time usage.
Stock and Selling Manager
Marks & Spencer
London
1997.01 - 2003.01
- Managed team dynamics by implementing conflict resolution strategies.
- Led performance reviews, identified areas for improvement.
- Piloted change management initiatives successfully improving organisational adaptability.
- Delegated tasks efficiently to maximise productivity.
- Maintained inventory control, reduced stock shortages.
- Facilitated staff training, resulting in better customer service.
- Delivered exceptional service by addressing customer queries promptly.
- Maintained positive relationships through effective communication.
- Demonstrated leadership skills in managing diverse teams.
- Navigated complex issues to provide apt solutions.
- Managed challenging situations to ensure customer satisfaction.
- Resolved complaints efficiently, fostering customer loyalty.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring optimal performance.
- Managed stock levels for optimal business performance.
- Evaluated supplier performance regularly to maintain quality standards across all product lines.
- Scheduled timely delivery of products to ensure steady flow within the supply chain cycle, reducing potential disruptions.
- Conducted regular stock takes, ensuring accurate inventory at all times.
- Followed stock adjustment procedures to correct inaccuracies in cycle counting activities.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mathematics for Finance and Management
Portsmouth University
Portsmouth, EnglandSkills
- Supplier evaluation techniques
- Technical product understanding
- Supplier relationship cultivation
- Project leadership
- Data-driven decision-making
- Trend awareness
- Supplier management
- Supply chain optimisation
- Market analysis
- Global sourcing
- Category Management
- Project management experience
- Resilience under pressure
Affiliations
- Reading, Volunteering at a local repair cafe.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Buyer
Saltrock
2015.04 - Current
Buying Assistant
Oasis
2008.01 - 2014.01
Flagship store manager
Monsoon UK
2004.01 - 2008.12
Sales Manager
House of Fraser
2003.01 - 2004.01
Stock and Selling Manager
Marks & Spencer
1997.01 - 2003.01
Bachelor of Science - Mathematics for Finance and Management
Portsmouth University