Innovative creative director and global sourcing specialist with extensive experience in luxury furniture, textiles, and interior design. Founder of a successful furniture line, with expertise in developing proprietary finishes, custom fabrics, and trims produced in-house. Skilled at merging classic European design traditions with modern aesthetics, delivering unique products for A-list clientele and high-profile residences. Former Creative Director for the world’s largest fabric retailer, leading global branding, marketing, and trend strategy. Adept at sourcing premium materials from France, Italy, Belgium, Spain, and Switzerland, while cultivating a diverse international network of artisans and suppliers. Strong background in team leadership, client relations, and end-to-end product development, with a proven ability to identify market trends and deliver innovative solutions for luxury markets.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Buyer
Lewis and Sheron Textiles
03.1990 - Current
Assisted in evaluating vendor proposals to ensure compliance with procurement policies.
Supported inventory management by monitoring stock levels and coordinating replenishment efforts.
Collaborated with cross-functional teams to gather requirements for purchasing strategies.
Conducted market research to identify potential suppliers and product options.
Maintained accurate records of purchases, contracts, and supplier communications.
Participated in negotiations with vendors to secure favorable terms and pricing.
Monitored trends in pricing and availability to inform purchasing decisions.
Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
Collaborated with internal departments to better understand needs and determine purchasing requirements.
Reduced procurement costs through strategic sourcing, competitive bidding, and effective negotiations.
Developed strong relationships with suppliers to secure favorable pricing terms and conditions for the company''s benefit.
Maintained complete documentation and records of all purchasing activities.
Founded and operated a luxury furniture line, designing and producing original pieces with a proprietary, one-of-a-kind finish.
Developed exclusive textiles and trims, blending Rococo influences with modern, playful motifs (e.g., custom fabrics featuring contemporary designs).
Oversaw full in-house production, managing factory operations from concept through fabrication of furniture, fabrics, and decorative elements.
Designed and furnished interiors for high-profile, A-list clientele, delivering bespoke, high-end solutions for luxury residences.
Traveled extensively across France, Italy, Belgium, Spain, and Switzerland to source premium fabrics, finishes, and materials.
Served as Creative Director for the world’s largest fabric retailer, leading branding, marketing, and creative direction at a global scale.
Built and managed diverse creative teams, providing leadership across design, sourcing, and event participation at major industry showcases.
Cultivated a global network of artisans, manufacturers, and design professionals, leveraging international partnerships to deliver unique, high-value products.
Experienced in brand building, trend forecasting, and positioning creative products within competitive luxury markets.
Trim and Fabric Designer
P. Kaufmann
01.2000 - 01.2010
designed fabric and trims that were sold world wide
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Textile Design
Atlanta College of Art
Atlanta, GA
06-1999
Skills
Global Sourcing & Procurement – Extensive experience sourcing premium fabrics, trims, and finishes from France, Italy, Belgium, Spain, and Switzerland
Material Development – Expertise in creating custom fabrics, finishes, and trims for exclusive furniture and interior projects
Design Innovation – Ability to merge historical styles (eg, Rococo) with modern aesthetics for unique, market-defining products
Trend Forecasting – Skilled in identifying emerging design, fashion, and interior trends to inform product development and buying strategies
Creative Direction – Led branding, marketing, and design strategy for a global fabric retailer and luxury furniture line
Team Leadership – Experienced in managing and mentoring creative teams; skilled at coordinating sourcing trips and industry event participation
Client Relations – Adept at working with high-profile clientele and maintaining strong vendor and artisan partnerships
Brand Building & Marketing – Proven success in positioning creative products for luxury markets and establishing brand identity
Product Development Lifecycle – Hands-on experience managing design, production, and quality control from concept to finished product
Factory & Production Management – Oversight of in-house manufacturing for furniture, fabrics, and trims
Networking & Negotiation – Strong global connections with artisans, suppliers, and manufacturers; skilled in negotiating favorable terms
Industry Knowledge – Deep understanding of fabrics, textiles, furniture design, and luxury interiors