Fashion Careers You Never Considered Pt. II: Business Edition
Written By: Ashley Laam
Just because you do not see yourself coordinating color themes nor playing some beats on the runway does not mean there is nothing in fashion for you! While Brittany gave you the latest on the creative side of the fashion industry, I’m here today to give you a taste of a few types of careers the business side has to offer for all of you strategists out there.
Welcome to the business world of fashion.
The Job: The Merchandise Planner / Allocator
How do you determine which merchandise goes to which stores? Professionals in this position rule the land of inventory. Planner and allocator are typically separate positions; however, many times these roles overlap and within certain companies they may even be combined. Both require a lot of financial forecasting using sales reports, inventory levels, and production. They are in charge of predicting what products will sell and using this information to ensure each store is always stocked with the appropriate levels and types of merchandise. If you’re big on analytics and numbers this could be the role for you. To sum it up: planners plan the product budget and allocators allocate products to the stores.
The Job: The Wholesale Account Executive
These people are ultimately the sales force behind a company. Relationships are key to success in this role. This position requires working with outside store vendors to try to get the company’s products placed into these vendors’ stores. It is important to build a connection with the buyers of these vendors to obtain successful and consistent sales. Account executives have a way with words in terms of being able to persuasive to get the sales volume for the company. They are the link between the outside buyers and the company. Heavy traveling can be required at times- especially during trade show seasons. Wholesale Account Executives essentially are the representatives for their company during these events, so a great personality is key!
The Job: The Buyer
Contrary to popular belief, this role isn’t just about “shopping.” Buying requires strong mathematical, analytical, and creative skills. These professionals purchase merchandise from wholesale brands to be resold into retail stores. This is typical of those working for companies that sell other brands in their stores. Buyers for companies that sell their own labels will work to select the best production pieces to be placed in retail. However, in order to determine the right products to select, buyers look into trends, sales reports, and the market. From looking at these numbers, they will develop creative strategies to help their company build an appropriate product assortment and range within their stores. These individuals will also often visit trade shows, fashion shows, and retail stores then placing purchase orders to ensure they snag the latest trends.
Have you decided which side of fashion best suits you?
xx Ashley