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Claire Besson
Head of Global Central Buying at Jimmy Choo
Professional Background
Claire Besson is a seasoned professional in the dynamic field of international business, particularly within the luxury fashion and retail sectors. With over a decade of experience, Claire has developed a robust career at Jimmy Choo, where she has held progressive leadership roles that underscore her expertise in global buying, retail, and e-commerce. Currently, she serves as the Head of Global Central Buying at Jimmy Choo, a position that has her at the helm of the brand's strategic buying initiatives on a worldwide scale.
Prior to her current role, Claire served as the Head of Buying for EMEA Retail & Global E-Commerce at Jimmy Choo, where she was responsible for crafting and executing procurement strategies that align with the company's vision and market demands. Her trajectory at Jimmy Choo began as a Buyer for EMEA Retail & Global E-Commerce, during which she honed her skills in product selection, vendor negotiations, and inventory management.
Before her invaluable tenure at Jimmy Choo, Claire's career saw her making significant contributions to Ralph Lauren, where she worked as the Footwear & Accessories Area Manager. This role deepened her expertise in luxury branding and retail merchandising, providing her with a unique perspective on consumer behavior and market trends in high-end fashion. Her earlier experience as a Women's Wear & Watches Buyer Assistant at Christian Dior Couture allowed her to cultivate the meticulous attention to detail and market acumen that her positions require.
Additionally, Claire's career foundation was built as an Assistant Project Manager at Ville de Paris and a Junior Business Analyst at Izsak Grapin & Associés. These early roles equipped her with essential skills in project management and data analysis, setting a strong base for her growth in the competitive landscape of international business.
Education and Achievements
Claire's educational background is rooted in robust academic foundations that complement her professional experience. She holds a Master’s degree in International Business from Université Dauphine IX, an institution renowned for its rigorous business curriculum and emphasis on global commerce. Additionally, Claire earned a graduate degree in International Business from Université de Provence (Aix-Marseille I), where she gained critical insights into global market dynamics, trade relations, and economic frameworks.
Moreover, Claire's education and professional development are evident in her strategic thinking, negotiation prowess, and ability to cultivate long-term partnerships that drive success in the retail industry. Her fluency in both English and French enables her to communicate effectively across diverse markets, further enhancing her capability in the global business environment.
Achievements
Over the course of her career, Claire has achieved remarkable success reflected in her strategic leadership at Jimmy Choo and previous employers. One noteworthy achievement includes spearheading initiatives that significantly improved procurement processes, resulting in cost savings and elevated product quality across the brand. Claire is known for implementing innovative buying strategies tailored to evolving consumer preferences and market demands, which have consistently increased sales and brand profitability.
Her collaborative approach fosters a culture of teamwork and creativity, allowing her teams to thrive and meet ambitious targets. Claire's impact transcends her roles as she advocates for the integration of technological advancements in e-commerce and retail operations, positioning Jimmy Choo at the forefront of the luxury shopping experience. Her journey exemplifies the profound impact of a dedicated professional committed to excellence and innovation within the international business landscape.
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