Available to hire
I’m Laura Cardia, a proactive consumer products professional with a track record in fashion design, sourcing, product development, and licensing across fashion, home, toys and distribution. I’ve built and led cross-functional teams across Brazil, LATAM, Europe and the UK, partnering with suppliers and licensing partners to deliver compelling ranges on time and on budget.
Currently based in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, I’m seeking an opportunity to apply my creative direction, strategic sourcing, and category leadership to drive growth for a dynamic brand.
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Language
Portuguese
Fluent
Spanish; Castilian
Advanced
English
Fluent
Work Experience
Category Buyer at CLF Distribution
January 1, 2023 - June 1, 2024Developed the women's denim range for the Southern Hemisphere (450+ SKUs/year). Managed fittings, supplier negotiations, approvals and seasonal planning across Brazil and LATAM. Conducted trend research and international market trips to support product direction. Travelled regularly to Zara HQ in Spain for collection presentations and strategy alignment. Strengthened supplier relationships to improve quality and production flow.
Buyer & Product Developer – Women's Denim at ZARA (Inditex)
January 1, 2014 - January 1, 2018Led the New Brands division, sourcing and onboarding 150+ brands per year across home, décor, beauty, fashion and lifestyle. Negotiated terms, defined assortment and managed overall category performance. Built strong supplier relationships and secured competitive commercial conditions. Coordinated with Marketing and Creative teams on brand storytelling and trend alignment. Led a team of two buyers and four assistants, providing guidance on sourcing, negotiations and category strategy.
Senior Buyer & Category Manager – Multibrand at Westwing
June 1, 2019 - June 1, 2022Multibrand e-commerce leader; managed creative approvals for licensed products across apparel, toys, home and marketing assets. Guided licenses through concept, artwork, sample and production reviews to ensure brand consistency. Supported key franchises including Barbie, Hot Wheels and Fisher-Price. Partnered with commercial teams to align creative decisions with business strategy. Led a team of two buyers and four assistants, providing guidance on sourcing, negotiations and category strategy.
Consumer Products Coordinator / Creative Department at Mattel
June 1, 2024 - June 1, 2025Multidisciplinary product, buying and licensing professional with experience across fashion, lifestyle, FMCG, toys and distribution; end-to-end product development, supplier management, range building, pricing and commercial planning. Recently relocated to Hawke’s Bay with full working rights and seeking a local opportunity. Known for being proactive, collaborative and adaptable.
Education
BA in Fashion Design at Faculdade Santa Marcelina, Brazil
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2014Postgraduate Diploma in Photography at British Academy of Photography, UK
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2023Fashion Buying Certification at SENAC, Brazil
January 11, 2030 - December 19, 2025Qualifications
Fashion Buying Certification
January 11, 2030 - December 19, 2025Postgraduate Diploma in Photography
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2023Industry Experience
Retail, Consumer Goods, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Other
Experience Level
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
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