Gemma Shearsmith - Placement Profile
Course: BA (Hons) Fashion Management
Placement: River Island
Placement position: Buyers Clerk
Could you tell me about your work placement?
I am a Buyers Clerk for ladies Denim and work closely alongside the merchandisers and garment technologists. I am part of a buyers' team of four people and work closely together to ensure a perfect denim range is built for each season that the River Island customer will love and buy.
What was the highlight of your placement year?
The highlight of my placement year is being given my own independence and being part of building three denim ranges. It has been a pleasure to work for such a well known fashion-forward company where I have learnt so much, which I can carry forward with me for the future.
Has your placement experience helped you make a decision regarding your future career?
I know I made the right decision doing a placement as it has given me great insight to what it is like to be a fashion buyer and has made me so determined to be a head buyer for a company like River Island when I graduate from university. It has made me aware of the variety of duties which a buyer has, and how important they are to the head office of a company.
Would you recommend NTU and your course?
I would certainly recommend both my course and Nottingham Trent University to prospective students. My course is regarded and one of the leading courses in the country for the subject, and companies hold the course and University in such high regard that students on the course are front-runners for any jobs and careers within the industry. NTU is one of the most vibrant, exciting and enjoyable university cities and students who come to NTU will not only have a rewarding academic experience but a fantastic social life.
