ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT SERIES: AN INTERVIEW WITH ROSE PHAN
November 4, 2024
In our Associate Spotlight series, we are highlighting associates across the company who are shaping our community and who embody our Centric Brands philosophy every day.
Meet Rose Phan, Senior Merchandiser, Kids’ Division at Centric Brands Vietnam. In her interview, Rose shares her motivation for pursuing a career in the fashion industry and how she stays ahead of trends by continuously adapting her approach to reflect the industry’s ever-evolving landscape.
Could you share insights about your role and responsibilities?
As a merchandiser at the Ho Chi Minh City office, I oversee several key aspects of product development and production. I collaborate closely with my team to ensure that trims, packaging, and hardware are developed and approved on time. This includes attending development and production fittings to ensure products meet our standards.
A key aspect of my role is understanding product costs and addressing any pricing discrepancies. I work with cross-functional teams and supply chain partners to identify competitive pricing and quality solutions. Additionally, I review and verify tech packs and fabrications throughout both the development stage and bulk production. I also collaborate with the Quality Assurance (QA) and Production teams to monitor vendor activities at the factory level.
How did you become passionate about your career and/or choose this career path?
My passion for the fashion industry stems from the belief that, regardless of where we are in life, we all need to eat and dress well. This desire to provide beautiful and unique outfits led me to pursue a career in fashion, where I aim to leave a distinctive mark on each wearer.
With 15 years of experience in the garment industry, I have developed a deep appreciation for the creative process and its ability to positively impact customers. My passion for sustainable apparel brands, like Under Armour, stems from my commitment to making a meaningful contribution to environmental causes. Engaging in initiatives that align with my values is not only rewarding but also reinforces my belief in the importance of sustainability in fashion.
How do you approach acquiring the knowledge and skills you need for your role?
My approach begins with a clear understanding of the task’s requirements. I prioritize continuous learning by staying engaged with industry trends through webinars and professional networks. I am adaptable, tailoring my learning strategies to the complexity of each topic—whether that involves collaborating with peers or seeking mentorship. Regular reflection on my progress and soliciting feedback further enhances my understanding, allowing me to fine-tune my approach.
Can you discuss a time when you had to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines?
When juggling competing priorities and tight deadlines, I tackle the challenge by first evaluating the urgency and importance of each task. Recently, I managed a project with several deliverables due within the same week. I approached it proactively by breaking down tasks into manageable steps and setting clear timelines. Staying organized and adaptable allowed me to meet all deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards. It’s rewarding to see how effective planning and a positive mindset can lead to successful outcomes.
What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?
I initially applied to university to major in mechanical engineering, focusing on automobiles. However, on the day I submitted my application, I had an unexpected conversation with the head of the training department, who suggested I consider switching to sewing technology, believing it would be a better fit for me.
With his encouragement, I adjusted my academic path and embraced garment technology, which has led to a fulfilling career spanning nearly 20 years. I’m incredibly grateful to that mentor for guiding me toward a field I’m truly passionate about. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and embracing unexpected opportunities.
