Kimberley Walker

Senior Buyer and Brand Partnerships | San Francisco, CA

Professional Overview

Kimberley Walker is a seasoned retail professional with over a decade of experience in buying, merchandising, and brand partnerships. As the Senior Buyer and Brand Partnerships at Sportique, she leverages her deep industry expertise to drive strategic merchandising decisions and forge impactful brand collaborations that enhance the company's competitive edge.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Senior Buyer and Brand Partnerships at Sportique, Kimberley is responsible for curating a diverse product portfolio, negotiating favorable vendor terms, and fostering strong relationships with key industry partners. She has played a pivotal role in expanding Sportique's brand reach and securing high-profile collaborations that have resulted in increased customer engagement and revenue growth.

Career Progression

Prior to her current role, Kimberley held various leadership positions in the retail and fashion industries. As the Head of Merchandising at GlobeIn, she spearheaded the company's product strategy, optimizing inventory levels and driving improvements in sell-through rates. Earlier in her career, she gained valuable experience as a Retail Buyer at JPL Group and a Product Consultant at Fossil Group, where she honed her skills in product development, sourcing, and inventory management.

Academic Background

Kimberley holds a Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Fashion & Textiles from the University of Technology Sydney. She has also completed a Sustainable Textiles Short Course at the University of the Arts London, further enhancing her expertise in sustainable sourcing and product development.

Areas of Expertise

• Strategic merchandising and brand management

• Vendor negotiations and contract management

• Product development and sourcing

• Inventory optimization and supply chain optimization

• Omnichannel retail strategy and implementation

• Sustainability and ethical sourcing practices

Professional Impact

Kimberley's achievements include:

• Driving a 20% increase in revenue and a 15% improvement in gross margins through strategic merchandising and brand partnerships at Sportique

• Implementing a sustainable sourcing program at GlobeIn, resulting in a 30% reduction in carbon footprint and a 25% increase in customer satisfaction

• Securing high-profile brand collaborations that have expanded Sportique's customer base and elevated the brand's reputation within the industry

Conclusion

With her exceptional track record of success, Kimberley Walker is poised to continue making a significant impact in the retail and fashion industries. Her deep understanding of consumer trends, product strategy, and brand building, combined with her commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, make her a valuable asset to any organization seeking to drive growth and innovation.