Operations, HR and events, across markets
I have spent 20 years building operations and people functions for brands moving into new markets, from a luxury menswear house in London to a handbag start-up in Singapore. My work sits at the point where a company's ambitions meet the systems, budgets, and people needed to deliver them: recruitment and staff wellness, frameworks that hold up across multiple markets, and events that run to plan even when the plan changes on the day.
Leadership
I use a firm yet approachable style to manage cross-market teams, with an emphasis on communication, individual responsibility, and skill development. Every project is run to a clear, exacting standard with every stakeholder in the loop.
Operations
I build and implement frameworks across multiple markets to improve efficiency, working both internally and with external suppliers. Every framework is data driven, with trackable metrics at each stage: lead generation, critical path management, and final execution within budget.
Human Resources
I have extensive experience implementing HR policy while maintaining a company's ethos and values across multiple markets, adapting to differences in legal requirements and cultural nuance. That includes onboarding and exit strategies built around each person's development and fit.
Events
My events experience spans corporate and consumer work, from London Fashion Week and Pitti Uomo in Europe to sales, shopping, and brand awareness events in Asia: ideation, forecasting and budgets, price modelling, supplier sourcing and negotiation, and a plan B always in place.
From people I've worked with
“I had the pleasure of working with Victoria Watkins for 18 months from 2017 to 2018, during which time she showcased exceptional dedication and skill. Victoria's contribution to our team was invaluable, and her commitment to excellence was evident in every task she undertook. Her promotion to head up regional HR and business operations was well-deserved, and her relocation from Singapore to Bangkok further exemplifies her readiness to take on new challenges. Victoria proved to be an asset to our firm, consistently delivering results and demonstrating leadership qualities that inspired her colleagues. I highly recommend Victoria for any role that values professionalism, integrity, and a strong work ethic.”
“Victoria possesses a remarkable ability to thrive in diverse environments and readily adapt to new challenges. As Operations Director at TALA, she successfully launched the online platform, negotiated strategic partnerships, and optimised business efficiencies, contributing significantly to the company's development. With extensive experience, combined with strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Victoria is a valuable asset to any organisation.”
“It was a privilege to work with Victoria Watkins during her time at TALA. Victoria's professionalism, keen insight, and genuine enthusiasm for our collaboration left a lasting impression. Her ability to articulate clear goals and collaborate effectively made our partnership both productive and enjoyable.”
“I've had the good fortune to work with Vix on a number of consultancy projects, and she's made every one of them so much easier. You need clarity getting to the root of problems, creativity and ingenuity in finding solutions, and commitment and consideration for others when getting results. Vix has those skills in spades.”
“I worked with Victoria for over four years as a key supplier. Victoria is a firm negotiator who understands fair practice and market rates on both the supply and retail side. She is a problem solver and always free for a brainstorm to ensure we were able to create the exact product the designer had envisioned.”
“I had the pleasure of working with Victoria while at Tickled Media Pte. Ltd., where she held the position of Head of New Markets as well as a position on the senior leadership team for the group, including HR and Operations overlooking all markets. She did so with ease and triumphed at every task, surpassing expectations of her colleagues and team.”
“I had the pleasure of meeting Victoria at a collaborative event between the brand she was working for and my fine jewellery line. Victoria's impeccable management skills were evident in every aspect of the event, from preparation to execution. Her ability to convey the brand's values to clients with great attention to detail was really admirable.”
“I had the privilege of working with Victoria, and through interactions, it's easily known to all around that she's a born leader who supports and leads her team with utmost professionalism and respect. She's resourceful, able to build and grow projects from the ground up and see them through till the end with meticulous attention to detail.”
“I had the privilege of working under Victoria during her time as Operational Director at Totally Tala. Her strategic mindset and hands-on approach significantly enhanced our operational efficiency. I wholeheartedly recommend Victoria for any leadership role and any role requiring operational expertise.”
“I have had the pleasure of working with Victoria on multiple projects over the years and I am impressed with her exceptional leadership and management skills. She has a unique ability to inspire and motivate the team to achieve great results, and always ensures that everyone is on the same page.”
“Victoria is an incredible team player and will always go above and beyond what's required to ensure any project is completed in due time with white glove treatment. Truly a fantastic ambassador for any brand, with numerous skills which can be applied to a number of disciplines.”
“I had the pleasure of working with Victoria for over 2 years during my time at Hackett. Her talent for managing multiple projects, from in-house presentations to photo shoots and international exhibitions, while being a go-to problem solver for many a quandary in the studio, never ceased to amaze.”
“It's rare that you come across standout talent like Victoria. I had the pleasure of working with Victoria for 5 years at Hackett collaborating on several project teams and special events. I was particularly impressed by Victoria's ability to handle even the toughest clients, and effortlessly.”
“Victoria is a great all-rounder who is unphased by anything that is thrown at her. She always rises to the challenge and never does just enough, but instead exceeds everyone's expectations with her mix of creativity, capability, efficiency and cheerfulness.”
“Victoria is a fantastic event organiser. One of those rare people who look into the details of events and not just the big picture. If you need something organised, Victoria is the go-to person for the job.”
