At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales and manage key accounts in the exciting childrenswear sector.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest apparel suppliers with a dynamic team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and exposure to major international brands.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and professional development in a vibrant industry.
- Why this job: Lead a passionate team and make a real impact in the childrenswear market.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in sales, strong network, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
V&C Associates has been retained by one of the UK's largest apparel suppliers (group turnover US$2 Billion+) to appoint an Account Director for its Childrenswear division. Reporting to the Managing Director, you'll drive sales performance across the business — developing new accounts, growing existing ones, and leading the team behind them. The role offers real line management responsibility and direct exposure to major international retailers and brands.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day operations and lead a portfolio of key retail and brand accounts
- Identify new business, build long-term client relationships, and drive sales and profitability
- Monitor KPIs and forecast performance in collaboration with the Commercial team
- Oversee range planning across newborn, infant, and older ensuring safety, compliance, and labeling standards are met
- Work with merchandisers and buyers on margin management and open-to-buy optimisation
- Lead, mentor, and develop the sales and merchandising team
- Oversee project delivery and resolve client and factory issues professionally
Key Requirements
- Minimum 5 years' sales experience within a childrenswear brand or supplier
- Proven track record of driving sales and revenue growth
- Strong existing network of retail and brand contacts
- Entrepreneurial, commercial, results-driven mindset
- Experience selling via showroom, in-person, phone, and email
- Excellent written and verbal communication, with high attention to detail
- Knowledge of the market and its compliance requirements
- Factory/production exposure and willingness to travel
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Account Director - Childrenswear employer: V&C
V&C Associates is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and innovation thrive. As part of one of the UK's largest apparel suppliers, employees benefit from extensive growth opportunities, a supportive culture that values collaboration, and direct engagement with major international retailers. Located in a vibrant industry hub, this role not only promises meaningful contributions to the Childrenswear division but also fosters professional development through mentorship and leadership responsibilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Account Director - Childrenswear
✨Get Down to the Fashion Events
Dive headfirst into local fashion shows, trade fairs, and networking events. These are golden opportunities to meet industry pros and showcase your passion for the industry in person. Plus, it gives you the chance to chat about potential roles at places like V&C!
✨Join Fashion-Focused Communities
Become a part of online fashion communities on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Participate in discussions and share your insights on trends or your personal style journey. It’s a great way to get noticed by brands looking to fill positions, including V&C.
✨Craft a Rock-Solid Portfolio
Since you're aiming for a full-time gig, your portfolio should reflect not just your best work but also your personality. Whether it’s lookbooks, design sketches, or styling projects, make sure it screams 'you' and includes a bit about why you’d be a perfect fit for V&C.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re fresh out of university, don’t underestimate your career services. They often have partnerships with fashion companies for internships and entry-level roles. Use this to your advantage and connect with them to find any openings at V&C!
We think you need these skills to ace Account Director - Childrenswear
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Style:In the fashion-apparel industry, your personal style and understanding of current trends are crucial. Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique fashion sense – use visuals if you can and highlight any fashion-related experiences or projects that show off your flair!
Highlight Relevant Experience:When you're applying for a full-time role, be sure to focus on any past roles or internships in fashion that’ve honed your skills. Whether that's working in retail, fashion design, or marketing, quantify your achievements and show how they relate to the role at V&C.
Include a Strong Portfolio:An impressive portfolio is key in fashion! Make sure to include a link to your online portfolio in your CV, showcasing your best work, be it designs, campaigns, or styling projects. This is your chance to let your creativity shine and demonstrate your abilities to V&C!
Craft a Standout Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to weave in your passion for fashion and the specific reasons you want to work at V&C. Share your vision of how you'd contribute to their brand and why you're excited about their work. Tailoring this will make you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at V&C
✨Showcase Your Style Portfolio
For a role in the fashion-apparel industry, having a well-curated portfolio is essential. Ensure you include your best work that reflects your style and creativity, whether it's sketches, lookbooks, or completed designs. Be ready to discuss your design process and the inspirations behind your pieces!
✨Know the Latest Trends and Brands
Being well-versed in current fashion trends and influential brands can give you a leg up in the interview. Get familiar with what’s trending in the market and know your competitors. This shows your passion for the industry and helps you connect your work experience to current fashion trajectories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaboration Skills
In a full-time fashion role, collaboration is key, whether you’re working with designers, marketers, or suppliers. Be prepared to share experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team or navigated challenges with colleagues. This will highlight your ability to adapt and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Dress the Part
This might sound obvious, but in fashion, how you present yourself is part of your brand. Wear something that represents your personal style while still aligning with the company’s aesthetic. It’s a great way to show you understand the industry's essence and can embody the brand’s image!
