Hi, my name is Sarah, I’d like to share the backstory behind my career journey and the inception of The Stables Retail Consultancy. Join me for a whirlwind tour through my professional life, starting from the moment I traded my graduation cap for a Merchandiser’s Excel spreadsheet. Buckle up, because it’s been quite the adventure!
It all began with my BA in Fashion Marketing from the University of Northampton, which laid the cornerstone of my career. This is where my passion for merchandising ignited, setting the course for my professional trajectory. My fascination with retail data blossomed during this time, shaping my future endeavors.
Before even graduating, I landed my inaugural role at Blacks as an Associate Merchandiser. As a fresh-faced graduate, I eagerly embraced the challenges of the retail world. Despite the company going into administration just six weeks into my tenure—a formidable learning experience—I forged ahead, propelled by an unwavering determination to succeed.
My pivotal career moment arrived with my role at Next as an assistant Merchandiser in Leicester. Focused on the “Label” segment of the business, I relished the opportunity to contribute to a department boasting an annual turnover of £150 million. From seasonal budgeting to competitor analysis, I honed my skills in product curation and market insight, ensuring Next remained at the forefront of the industry.
After almost six enriching years at Next, I yearned for a new challenge, one that led me to the realm of smaller retailers. Joining Loake Shoemakers as their retail merchandiser in Kettering, I immersed myself in the intricacies of a 140-year-old family-run business. Responsible for overseeing 16 stores, each housing a myriad of products, I orchestrated stock management and coordinated store operations with precision and finesse.
My tenure at Loake Shoemakers reignited my appreciation for the fundamentals of brick-and-mortar retailing, underscoring the pivotal role of customer experience in driving business success. It was a journey marked by the delicate balance between tradition and innovation—a testament to the resilience of heritage brands in an ever-evolving market landscape.
Despite my deep-rooted connection to my team at Loake, my passion for horses beckoned me towards a new chapter at Equus. Transitioning into the role of a Merchandiser, I spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing sales performance and streamlining operational efficiency. As the business evolved, so did my role, culminating in my appointment as Trading Manager—a testament to my adaptability and unwavering commitment to driving business growth.
In early 2023, I embarked on a new adventure as a freelancer, driven by a passion for relationship-building and a steadfast commitment to delivering tailored solutions to retail businesses. With two decades of equestrian retail experience under my belt, I am poised to help businesses unlock their full potential, empowering them to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
And so, my journey through the world of retail and merchandising continues—a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering determination. As I set my sights on the horizon, I invite you to embark on this journey with me. Let’s connect and explore how The Stables Retail Consultancy can help propel your business towards new heights of success.
