Bianca Lennon

Dynamic and results-driven General Manager with over 25 years retail experience, including a successful tenure at Zara UK. Proven track record of driving sales growth, leading high-performing teams, and implementing innovative strategies. Eager to bring my expertise, passion, and leadership to your team, I am committed to exceeding targets and creating a thriving, customer-focused environment. Excited to contribute to your continued success.

General Manager - Zara UK - Glasgow

(2021-11)

• Lead a team of 150+ employees, including senior managers, fostering a high-performance culture through coaching, mentoring, and effective employee relations.
• Directed daily operations and strategic initiatives, optimizing efficiency, productivity, and cross-departmental performance.
• Monitored KPIs and prepared executive-level reports, ensuring business targets were consistently met or exceeded.
• Drove multi-channel sales and customer experience initiatives, enhancing revenue streams, customer satisfaction, and brand loyalty.
• Implemented process improvements and collaborated with cross-functional teams to boost operational efficiency and support business growth.
• Managed budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting, maximizing profitability while maintaining cost control.
• Maintained a safe and healthy work environment, prioritizing employee wellbeing and compliance with HSE standards.

Operations Department Manager - Zara UK - Glasgow

(2021-02 - 2021-11)

• Assisted the General Manager in aligning operational activities with overall organizational goals, ensuring seamless communication and coordination across departments
• Oversaw daily operations across multiple departments to maintain high levels of efficiency and productivity, supporting continuous operational flow
• Developed and implemented operational policies and procedures aimed at fostering process consistency and ongoing improvement
• Led and motivated cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones and meet operational objectives within set timelines
• Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for operational enhancement and process optimization, supporting data-driven decision making
• Designed and delivered staff training programs focused on developing competencies and promoting a high-performance work environment
• Prepared comprehensive operational reports for senior management to facilitate informed strategic planning and decision-making

Department Manager Menswear - Zara UK - Glasgow

(2015-10 - 2021-02)

• Managed the overall commercial performance and brand image of the department to align with company standards and objectives
• Developed and implemented visual merchandising strategies to enhance product presentation and attract target customers
• Monitored sales trends and customer preferences to optimize product assortment and display arrangements
• Led the team in delivering high standards of customer service to promote customer loyalty and satisfaction
• Ensured compliance with company policies and operational procedures within the department
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to execute promotional campaigns and seasonal displays
• Maintained a strong understanding of market and industry trends to adapt department strategies accordingly
• Train staff on product knowledge, sales techniques, and store policies

Regional Merchandiser Menswear - Zara UK - Glasgow

(2012-10 - 2015-11)

• Managed and supervised the visual presentation and operational standards across 14 stores throughout Scotland and North England.
• Collaborated with Head Office to develop and implement commercial merchandising concepts suitable for a global audience.
• Ensured consistent and accurate pricing, signage, and display standards across all retail locations.
• Monitored and reported on sales performance and visual merchandising compliance to senior management regularly.
• Conducted scheduled store visits to assess the execution of visual standards and identify areas for improvement.
• Provided guidance and support to store teams to uphold company branding and merchandising strategies.
• Train staff on new product features and merchandising guidelines regularly
• Provide feedback to management on store performance and customer preferences