Mark O'Shaughnessy

Proven track record of identifying new business opportunities, developing profitable customer relationships, sourcing and managing international manufacturing partners, and delivering innovative products to market. Recognised for building long-term partnerships with customers, suppliers, and colleagues while consistently driving commercial growth and operational efficiency. Combines strong commercial awareness with hands-on operational expertise and a deep understanding of product development, manufacturing processes, importing, quality standards, and customer requirements.

GLOBAL SOURCING MANAGER at W Brewin & Co Ltd (2013-09 – 2026-06)

Responsible for the strategic sourcing and procurement of hosiery products from international manufacturing partners.

• Identified, evaluated and developed offshore manufacturing partnerships across global markets.
• Built and maintained long-term relationships with suppliers through daily communication and regular factory visits.
• Assessed manufacturing capabilities, quality standards, ethical compliance and operational performance.
• Managed customer orders from initial specification through to production and shipment.
• Ensured accurate product specifications, CAD artwork approvals, yarn requirements and pricing structures.
• Coordinated production schedules and delivery timelines to meet customer expectations.
• Developed strong understanding of product testing requirements, audits and certification standards.
• Worked closely with sales, quality and operational teams to deliver customer-focused solutions

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER at HM Hosiery Ltd / Apto Sports (2005-10 – 2013-08)

Led business development activities across sportswear, hosiery and sporting equipment sectors.

• Identified and secured new business opportunities with leading brands and retailers.
• Managed customer relationships from initial contact through product development and delivery.
• Led product development projects covering socks, footballs, training equipment and sports apparel.
• Oversaw artwork creation, prototyping, sample approvals and production processes.
• Expanded existing accounts through new product introductions and category growth.
• Contributed significantly to the development and expansion of the Apto Sports brand.
• Managed sourcing and importing operations from Turkey and India.

SALES EXECUTIVE at W Brewin & Co Ltd (1998-07 – 2005-10)

Responsible for developing new business opportunities and growing existing customer accounts.

• Generated new business with major retail and brand customers.
• Increased sales revenues through account growth and relationship management.
• Worked closely with senior management and design teams to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Identified emerging fashion trends and market opportunities.
• Successfully reduced significant levels of obsolete stock through strategic sales initiatives.
• Managed export sales activities and distributor relationships.
• Controlled stock levels for own-brand product ranges.
• Supported the introduction and development of imported product lines.

MANUFACTURERS' AGENT at Marigold Fashions (1997-04 – 1998-07)

Operated as a self-employed agent representing the business within the sports and leisurewear sector.

• Established and developed a start-up sourcing and importing business.
• Built a customer and supplier network across the UK retail market.
• Managed all purchasing, sales and commercial activities.
• Oversaw technical product development and supplier coordination.

CUSTOMER & SALES LIAISON / FIELD SALES MANAGER / BRAND MANAGER / CONTRACT SALES MANAGER at Polisox Ltd (1985-02 – 1997-04)

Progressed through several senior commercial positions with responsibility for sales growth, customer management and brand development.

• Managed relationships with UK sales agents and European distributors.
• Analysed sales performance and market trends.
• Maintained close communication with key customers and retail accounts.
• Accompanied sales teams on strategic customer visits.
• Influenced product range development and commercial planning.
• Organised and attended industry exhibitions and trade shows.
• Managed pricing structures, sales budgets and promotional activities.
• Held responsibility for numerous major retail and branded accounts.

TEC Textiles in Textile Studies – Hinckley Technical College (1982)

O Levels – Guthlaxton College