LIANNE CLAYTON
Retail Leader
Durban,Kwazulu Natal
Summary
Strategic, people-focused retail executive with over 30 years experience in merchandise planning, buying, and supply chain leadership. Proven track record of driving profitability, transformation, and innovation through collaboration with Operations, Visual Merchandise and Marketing teams to ensure optimal store performance and customer experience. Passionate about developing high-performing teams and delivering results through inclusive leadership and agile strategy execution.
Skilled in project management, resource allocation, and process improvement. Highly reliable and capable of meeting organizational goals.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Planning Director
Mr Price Group – Miladys Division
01.2013 - Current
- As part of the leadership team, responsible for crafting and executing the business brand strategy.
- Lead strategic planning for a 2 billion-rand business, aligning merchandise strategy with company KPIs.
- Oversaw planning, resourcing, QA, and supply chain functions (2014–2017).
- Spearheaded new business initiatives including cosmetics and hair categories.
- Played a key role in brand repositioning and relevance for a legacy business.
- First ACI appointed Director in a trading division (2013).
- Previous Roles at Miladys
- Head of Planning (2011–2013)
- Planning Manager – Apparel (2010–2011)
- Planning Manager –Non Apparel (2006–2010)
- Planner (Rene Taylor) 2003 – 2006 - Buyer – Intimate Wear (2001–2003)
Merchandiser & Sales Coordinator
Ninian & Lester (Pty) Ltd
01.1995 - 01.2001
- Developed retail strategies for Jockey Men’s Wear across major retail chains.
- Progressed from clerk to merchandiser, gaining end-to-end exposure in manufacturing and sales.
Education
National Certificate - Sales & Marketing Management
Damelin
01.1996
International Leadership Development Program - undefined
W&RSETA
RSA, USA, Canada01.2010
Executive Programs - undefined
BABSON, GIBS & Henley Business School
Skills
Merchandise & Financial Planning
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Team Development & Talent Pipeline
Supply Chain & Resourcing Oversight
Cross-functional collaboration
Demand forecasting
Department oversight
Cost control
Analytical skills
Problem-solving aptitude
Customer relationship management
Budget management
Performance evaluations
Financial management
References
Natalie Wills - Managing Director Miladys
Donovan Baney - Mr Price Group Head - Apparel Sector
Contact details provided on request
LEADERSHIP STYLE & INSIGHTS
- Gallup Strengths: Relator, Arranger, Maximizer, Adaptable, WOO
- Enneagram: 1, 7, 4 – Visionary
- MBTI: ENTJ
Timeline
Planning Director
Mr Price Group – Miladys Division
01.2013 - Current
Merchandiser & Sales Coordinator
Ninian & Lester (Pty) Ltd
01.1995 - 01.2001
National Certificate - Sales & Marketing Management
Damelin
International Leadership Development Program - undefined
W&RSETA
Executive Programs - undefined
BABSON, GIBS & Henley Business School