In this episode Katie Greenyer chats to Sacha Spencer, Senior Buyer for Womenswear, M&S. Listen as they chart her journey in footwear. From an occasional Saturday job in her parent's shoe shop in Somerset and a love of all things creative to a career of over 20 years of experience in retail. With over half of which spent with Clerks, she describes her rise from shop floor assistant through trends analyst and range manager roles through to senior buyer at one of our leading retail brands.

Listen out for Sacha's top tips and secrets to being a successful buyer, it goes beyond having a keen eye and ability to build a range. They talk about the importance of speaking to your consumers, how to do it, the need to take calculated risks and role of leadership. Emphasising the need to be brave - be the voice in the room for consumers and the need to believe in your product.

Hear Sacha's on-the-ground insights into the impact of COVID of retail, the changes in buying habits, the move of consumers online and the challenges of the global recession that is starting to bite. Katie and Sasha explore the concept and practicalities of ‘positive business’, how to set yourself apart from the competition, trusting your instinct and learning from the occasional stumble along the way.

Throughout the conversation, Sacha highlights the importance of mentoring, networks, and support both to her career and for the future of the footwear industry.  A champion of the importance of giving back, this podcast offers a warm, personal insight into what inspires and drives Sacha as an individual and professional. A must-listen to anyone interested in engaging with consumers and finding out more about different retail roles in footwear and fashion.