This session offers an inside look into two of fashion retail’s most essential career paths: buying and merchandising. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how these teams shape product ranges, respond to trends, and work cross‑functionally to bring collections to life. Students will get a clear view of the day‑to‑day responsibilities, the skills that matter when starting out, and the realities, challenges and opportunities of working in a fast‑paced commercial environment. The panel will share practical advice, real career journeys and guidance on how to thrive in these roles.

Meet the speakers:

Jonathan Stanley

Senior Buying Manager, Men’s Jersey – F&F

Jonathan brings over 15 years of buying experience across womenswear, menswear, and accessories. He currently leads Men’s Jersey at F&F, focusing on delivering commercial, customer-led product ranges. His career spans premium and high-street retail, including buying roles at Reiss and Ted Baker. Jonathan studied Buying and Merchandising at the Fashion Retail Academy, giving him first-hand insight into entering the industry and progressing within it.

Philippa Cass

Head of Merchandising / Buying, Ladieswear – F&F (Tesco)

Philippa has over 30 years of experience across merchandising and supply chain, working across womenswear, menswear, and childrenswear. She is currently transitioning from Head of Merchandising into Head of Buying for Ladieswear at F&F. Her career includes senior roles at Arcadia brands, Jaeger, and Asda, combining specialist fashion expertise with large-scale retail operations. Philippa is known for her strong commercial mindset and commitment to delivering accessible, trend-led fashion for customers.

Jay O’Connell

Ladies Lead Buying Manager / Knitwear Buying Manager – F&F

With over 20 years in retail, Jay has progressed from early roles in a haberdashery shop and River Island to a long-standing career in buying. He completed a university placement at Debenhams and later joined the TK Maxx Buying & Merchandising Graduate Scheme. Jay has spent 13 years at F&F, progressing from Trainee Buyer across womenswear categories. After a brief move into HR, he returned to buying, driven by his passion for product, customers, and the fast-paced nature of the industry.

Lisa Sandeman

Merchandising Manager – F&F (Tesco)

Lisa has built a broad merchandising career across leading high-street and online retailers including ASOS, Topshop, New Look, and Tesco. Her experience spans menswear, womenswear, childrenswear, footwear, and seasonal categories such as Christmas and nightwear. Lisa brings deep expertise in merchandising planning, trading strategy, and category management, with a strong focus on delivering commercial ranges that meet customer demand at scale.

Lucy Rollason

Head of Buying – Home Lifestyle, F&F

Lucy has over 20 years of retail experience, beginning her career at River Island before joining Arcadia and later Tesco, where she has spent more than two decades in buying. Her background spans womenswear, online retail, and essentials categories, alongside leadership roles managing teams and developing commercially successful ranges. Now leading Buying for Home Lifestyle, Lucy combines her fashion expertise with her passion for interiors, travel, and global inspiration to create products that bring style and joy into everyday living.