I'm Sharon Thomson, a results-driven sourcing and supply chain leader with 20+ years in product development, managing end-to-end processes from concept to commercialization. I excel at global sourcing, supplier negotiations, procurement strategy, and optimizing supply chains, with a track record of enhancing supplier relations, driving cost savings, and ensuring ethical practices. In my work, I’ve scaled efficiency, reduced risks, and aligned procurement strategies with business goals. I thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and am passionate about building sustainable, ethical supply chains. I’m adept at forecasting demand, leading diverse teams, and turning strategic visions into tangible results that support brand growth and profitability.

Sharon Thomson

I'm Sharon Thomson, a results-driven sourcing and supply chain leader with 20+ years in product development, managing end-to-end processes from concept to commercialization. I excel at global sourcing, supplier negotiations, procurement strategy, and optimizing supply chains, with a track record of enhancing supplier relations, driving cost savings, and ensuring ethical practices. In my work, I’ve scaled efficiency, reduced risks, and aligned procurement strategies with business goals. I thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and am passionate about building sustainable, ethical supply chains. I’m adept at forecasting demand, leading diverse teams, and turning strategic visions into tangible results that support brand growth and profitability.

Available to hire

I’m Sharon Thomson, a results-driven sourcing and supply chain leader with 20+ years in product development, managing end-to-end processes from concept to commercialization. I excel at global sourcing, supplier negotiations, procurement strategy, and optimizing supply chains, with a track record of enhancing supplier relations, driving cost savings, and ensuring ethical practices. In my work, I’ve scaled efficiency, reduced risks, and aligned procurement strategies with business goals.

I thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and am passionate about building sustainable, ethical supply chains. I’m adept at forecasting demand, leading diverse teams, and turning strategic visions into tangible results that support brand growth and profitability.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Founder and Creative Director at Earth Baby Outfitter / Katex Inc
January 1, 2014 - Present
Founded Earth Baby Outfitter / Katex Inc and developed marketing and sales strategies across 500+ North American retailers, secured cost-effective procurement, and implemented data-driven demand forecasting to optimize inventory while embedding sustainable sourcing practices.
Director of Product Development & Merchandising at King First Industrial Co., Taiwan (Cambodia production)
January 1, 2005 - December 31, 2013
Directed seasonal product development and merchandising for major global apparel brands (Ricki's, George, Macy's private labels), handling 1.5M pieces per season; built supplier assessment frameworks; reduced material overstock and boosted revenue through improved purchasing accuracy and negotiations; led a cross-functional team of 20+.
Brand and Merchandise Manager at Laicarefore International Ltd
January 1, 2005 - December 31, 2007
Enhanced merchandise financial planning for 400+ stores across China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong; elevated service levels and brand messaging; achieved an 18% reduction in markdowns and cut procurement costs by 10% through strategic inventory and supplier relations.
Chief of Product Development & Planning at Jeng Sheng Knitting Co., Ltd
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2005
Developed demand-driven sourcing strategies and led a 25-member team to manage 2M orders annually for brands such as NEXT, EXPRESS, and PRIMARK; delivered trend analysis and tailored design solutions to optimize order volumes.
Founder / Creative Director at Chelsea Creation Ltd
January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2004
Developed strategic sourcing plans for seasonal product lines, strengthening supplier partnerships and procurement efficiency for boutique stores; drove a 40% increase in sales through market trend analysis and optimized inventory turnover.
Fashion Designer at YGM Group Ltd
January 1, 2000 - December 31, 2002
Implemented sourcing strategies for Aquascutum and Michel Rene; increased sales by 25% and improved profit margins through optimized sourcing and assortment planning.
Senior Designer at Ralsey Group Ltd (Li & Fung subsidiaries)
January 1, 1997 - December 31, 2000
Managed knitwear seasonal product development and sourcing for Express, Topshop, Limited and JCPenney; achieved 30% adoption rate and improved supply chain operations.
Director of Product Development & Merchandising at King First Industrial Co. (Taiwan / Cambodia production)
January 1, 2005 - December 31, 2013
Oversaw seasonal brand proposals from concept to end products and crafted assortment strategies for multiple brands. Managed the allocation of 2 million pieces per season, including high-volume orders for H&M, Ricki's, Anthropologie, Free People, George, Macy's private labels (INC, Style & Co), and BCBG. Developed supplier collaboration assessments to secure favorable lead times, reduced material overstock by 15%, and boosted revenue by 12% through improved purchasing accuracy and negotiations. Led a cross-functional team of 20+ to coordinate product development, production, and sales, ensuring seamless operations and data-driven refinement of winning styles within brand budgets.

Education

Master of Business Administration (Fashion Business) at Hong Kong Polytechnic University
January 1, 2001 - December 31, 2003
Higher Diploma in Design Theory and Practice at Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education
January 1, 1997 - December 31, 1999
Higher Diploma in Fashion Design & Technology at University of the Arts, London
January 1, 1995 - December 31, 1997
Master of Business Administration (Fashion Business) at Hong Kong Polytechnic University
January 1, 2001 - January 1, 2003
Higher Diploma in Design Theory and Practice at Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education BT EC
January 1, 1997 - January 1, 1999
Higher National Diploma in Fashion Design & Technology at University of the Arts, London
January 1, 1995 - January 1, 1997

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Retail, Consumer Goods, Manufacturing, Other, Professional Services