Claire Hammond - Placement Profile
Course: BA (Hons) Fashion Management
Placement: Monsoon Accessorize
Placement position: Trainee Technical Assistant
Could you tell me about your work placement?
During my placement year, I worked for Monsoon Accessorize, on the Accessorize technical team. As a trainee technologist, I was responsible for the management of Accessorize’s testing across all product ranges, as well as completing technical approvals on belts, purses, socks and hosiery. I was also able to take on some buying administrative assistant roles, such as presenting best sellers and post and sample sale responsibilities, which gave me experience of the BAA role. Gaining knowledge and being involved with the critical path; how products and ranges develop from concept to being in store was extremely valuable. I also gained invaluable knowledge of US testing requirements through assisting the technical team with Accessorize’s move into the US market.
What was the highlight of your placement year?
Having the opportunity to meet and work with so many knowledgeable and friendly people, from my colleagues to suppliers. I have learnt a great deal from working with extremely experienced people as well as making some good friends.
Has your placement experience helped you make a decision regarding your future career?
Even though I haven't come to a final decision of exactly what career path I want to follow within fashion business, I now have a clearer idea of the roles I would like to pursue. The placement experience has reinforced my dream of working within the fashion industry.
Would you recommend NTU and your course?
Yes – Nottingham Trent University is a great place to study fashion as it offers many different fashion, art and design courses and therefore lots of people to meet with the same interests. I strongly recommend this course as it offers a wide breath of subjects to study which prepares you for all job roles within the fashion industry as well as helping you to decide what you are most interested in. NTU is one of the few universities which helps and fully prepares you for gaining an industry placement, which is invaluable to assisting your knowledge learnt in lectures, helping to choose your future career path and gaining experience within the industry.
