STEVE CLAPHAM

I started with Eastream in April 2024 - joining forces with other previous colleagues from Isa-Traesko.

I was yet again tasked with building a business as the UK part of the wider group of companies.

• Developed new partnerships for business growth.
• Managed key accounts, enhancing client relationships.
• Maintained comprehensive knowledge of industry trends and competitors' activities.
• Streamlined sales processes resulting in improved efficiency.
• Conducted market research to identify potential clients.

I joined ex-colleagues from Novi and Isa-Traesko to create a new business for Central Park Shoes as part of The Groupe Royer.

We built a significant business and turnover with Lidl, Aldi, Sainsburys and opened business with several other customers.

I ran the UK business .

I was approached by Isa-Traesko (a large German Importer) to start a UK business for them. I incorporated Zapato Footwear Uk Ltd at the end of 2003 and ran the business as my own until early 2012.

I had a team of 12 working for me in the UK and built up a significant turnover with the likes of Aldi, Next , Tesco and Brantano.

I moved back to Leicester to look after the UK Market for Novi - a German Importer (and a Company I had known since my BSC days as a Buyer) -

• Managed key accounts, enhancing client relationships.
• Provided exceptional after-sales service, promoting repeat business.
• Negotiated contracts for better terms and conditions.
• Developed new partnerships for business growth.

I jumped from Buying to Selling and moved to London to look after the Childrens Footwear Division for Amalgamated Shoe Co Ltd (later to become The Pentland Group)

• Streamlined sales processes to enhance team productivity.
• Forged strategic partnerships with Customers /Buyers
• Managed key accounts, resulting in consistent revenue generation.
• Boosted gross margin percentages by initiating cost-saving measures.
• Conducted detailed market analysis to identify new opportunities.
• Drove revenue growth by identifying and capitalising on emerging market trends.

I was responsible for a £50 Million Department and Team of 10 people

• Coordinated with warehouse staff; ensured correct quality of goods.
• Assessed potential suppliers, ensuring quality and reliability.
• Boosted supplier relationships by negotiating contracts and terms.
• To reduce costs , negotiated bulk purchase deals with suppliers.
• Evaluated product performance regularly; ensured alignment with business needs.
• Streamlined inventory control with regular stock checks and updates.
• Worked closely with marketing department; developed effective promotional strategies for products.
• Established efficient procurement processes for improved supply chain management.
• Ensured timely delivery of products, maintaining customer satisfaction levels high.
• Handled vendor disputes professionally; preserved good business relations.