Deeptha Rajapaksha

Results-driven Apparel Merchandising and Account Management professional with extensive experience managing UK and USA retail customers, including Tesco, Next, M&S, Shop Direct, Sainsbury's, George, and Haddad Brands. Expertise spans outerwear, denim and non-denim garments, washed and non-washed products, embellished styles, and licensed products.

Proven track record in managing the complete garment lifecycle from product development, sourcing, costing, order placement, and production planning through to final shipment. Highly skilled in Time and Action (T&A) management, critical path monitoring, vendor coordination, and delivery execution to meet customer requirements and business objectives.

Strong technical knowledge of garment manufacturing processes, including fabric and trim sourcing, printing, embroidery, washing, quality assurance, and compliance standards. Experienced in working closely with cross-functional teams, suppliers, subcontractors, and customers to ensure product quality, cost efficiency, and on-time delivery.

Recognized for building strong customer relationships, resolving production challenges, negotiating effectively with suppliers, and driving continuous improvements across the supply chain. Possess excellent communication, analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced apparel manufacturing environments.

Collaborated closely with product development teams to customize products based on customer specifications, ensuring commercial viability while meeting quality, fit, and performance expectations.

• Performed duties as Quality Manager overseeing apparel production for leading UK retail customers, including Tesco, Next, M&S, Sainsbury's, George, and Shop Direct. Responsible for implementing and maintaining quality management systems to ensure products met customer specifications, compliance requirements, and industry standards.