Fashion Industry is not limited to just the glamour associated with it. It has an operational side that encompasses an understanding of how the fashion industry actually works- brand building, building a trademark, marketing, understanding of managing business, sales, purchase, retailing, inventory management, merchandising, establishing advertising campaigns, creating brand loyalty etc. basically all revenue earning functions. All these functions are the prerogative of a Fashion Industry Manager.
Fashion Industry manager must not only have strong business skills, but also must display technical expertise. He researches and analysis micro and macro trends in the fashion industry, customers, their preferences, purchasing behaviour, socio-cultural factors, economic factors, fashion trends etc. and accordingly formulate innovative marketing, product, pricing, segmentation, merchandising, retailing & distribution strategies etc., so as to boost revenues.
Skills required to be a Fashion Industry Manager
Brand strategy: He must be able to develop a brand strategy so as to create a distinct brand positioning. Branding strategy will not only communicate a core message but also will get people to relate with it, besides making the product desirable, resulting in its purchase.
Communication & Networking skill: The manager must possess excellent communication skills so as be able to sell the marketing concept to stakeholders, distributors, merchandisers, teams from varied departments and potential customers etc. They also need to convey effectively to vendors and manufacturers about material supply, costs along with deadlines. Furthermore with networking skills he’ll be able to secure more business as well as collaborate with people from other department.
Negotiation skills: It’s an important skill for it can help in reducing costs, managing deadlines and at the same time not compromising on quality. He needs to negotiate so as to sell his innovation, strategies, along with identifying the right channels to execute it.
Business Development Skills: The volatile market conditions mandates Business Development skills in every profession. However in fashion industry its requirement is at a different level for fashion industry requires that these professionals not only regulate the growth strategies, but also ensure the efficiency of business processes, handle budgets, build consistency in operations along with maintaining stead growth parameters.
Passion to learn: He must keep himself up to date with the current market as well as fashion trends. He must attend lectures, webinars, take up short courses and attend fashion shows & seminars etc. to enhance his knowledge and skills.
The students must enroll in a college that offers:
- This program must inspire students to come up with innovative, creative ideas so as to have a positive impact on the Fashion industry.
- The college must build partnerships with industry and professionals from luxury, fashion & textiles, lifestyle sectors so as to offer an enhanced exposure to its students
- The college must work to build fundamental foundation in students related to supply chain, production, logistics, sales & marketing and brand communication etc.
- The program must be industry centric and must offer students exposure through real time learning in internships, handling live projects, Alumni Mentoring, master classes with industry leaders and industry trips etc.
