Debbie Samson

Commercially focused retail management leader with 20+ years' experience leading teams, growing revenue and managing business performance across luxury beauty, retail and an independently owned business. Proven success in translating sales data, customer insight and KPIs into practical commercial plans, developing high-performing teams and delivering exceptional customer experiences. Experienced in P&L, budgeting, forecasting, payroll, stock, CRM, promotions, supplier relationships and visual standards.

Business Manager at La Mer (2016-05 – 2024-12)

• Led, coached and developed a high-performing team, combining luxury customer service with a strong focus on sales, KPIs and commercial delivery.
• Used sales reports, customer insight and CRM activity to identify opportunities, shape business activity and achieve targets.
• Planned and delivered customer events, promotions, virtual consultations and client engagement activity to generate new and repeat business.
• Managed payroll and supported day-to-day account operations while maintaining exceptional brand and visual merchandising standards.
• Attended quarterly head-office meetings in London to review performance and business strategy.
• Key achievement: increased account turnover from £400,000 to £700,000 within four years while consistently achieving KPI targets.

Account Manager at L'Oréal (2011-11 – 2016-05)

• Managed day-to-day account performance and led the team to deliver commercial objectives, customer service standards and operational efficiency.
• Developed weekly and monthly business plans against sales targets and KPIs, working with Regional and Area Managers to review results, opportunities and competitor activity.
• Led product launches, promotions and customer events, ensuring the team was trained, engaged and focused on commercial outcomes.
• Delegated effectively, coached team members and maintained strong visual merchandising standards.
• Key achievements: Top 5 of 56 UK & Ireland stores in 2014; gift sales increased by 61%; delivered multi-site training across 10-12 locations.

Owner at Independent Business (2000-10 – 2011-11)

• Held full commercial responsibility for the business, including P&L, budgeting, forecasting, financial performance, banking and bookkeeping.
• Recruited, trained and developed the team and drove growth through marketing, advertising, promotions, new products and services.
• Managed stock control and negotiated with suppliers and sales representatives to achieve strong commercial outcomes.
• Built a loyal customer base and local business partnerships that generated repeat business and referrals.
• Successfully grew the business over 11 years and sold it following an attractive purchase offer.

Beauty Therapy in NVQ Level 3 – Preston College (1994-09 – 1996-06)