Tracey Samuel

• Founded The Bonniemob, a GOTS-certified, globally recognised baby and kids’ brand, known for fun, colourful design, quality and innovation. Focusing on premium quality knitwear and jerseywear. • Stocked in prestigious stores such as Bergdorf Goodman, Selfridges, Harrods and over 100 independent boutiques worldwide. • Expanded into international markets, working with agents, distributors, and partners in South Korea, China and the USA — including designing exclusive capsule collections for specific regions and negotiating distribution deals and collaborations. • Designed and launched two seasonal collections annually, managing the full process from concept Sampling through to production and delivery. • Developed unique yarns and fabrics. • Designed all print designs and knit motifs and jaquards. • Overseeing marketing, photography direction and visual identity to ensure brand consistency across all platforms. • Experienced in Shopify website design and management. • Full proficiency of Adobe Illustrator, Indesign and Photoshop.

Full-time in Paris (1996–2001), Freelance between Brighton and Paris (2001–2005) • Employed as part of the creative team to design and launch the Sonia by Sonia Rykiel collection, the sister line to Sonia Rykiel. I designed seasonal knitwear collections within a dedicated team, developing brand DNA through stitch detail, signature intarsias, innovative shapes, and textured knits. • Collaborated closely with the in-house technical team to refine knit details, agree on cost parameters and attend fittings, ensuring each design was fully production-ready and delivered to the highest standard. • Worked directly with Madame Rykiel on aspects of the mainline knit collections, contributing to the brand’s signature knitwear identity. • Collaborated with Botto Paola (Italian spinner) to develop a bespoke high-twist Merino yarn for the main line, elevating quality and performance. • Sourced and developed new knitting production suppliers in China while maintaining close collaborations with key factories in Italy and Portugal. • Worked on styling and concepts for catwalk shows. • Partnered with distributor teams on the Japanese licensed line of Sonia by Sonia Rykiel, travelling frequently to Tokyo to oversee the collection.

Coats Viyella was one of the main UK knitwear suppliers to Marks & Spencer in the 90’s. • Developed innovative techniques and fabrics using newly acquired Shima Seiki knitting machines (£20M investment). • Worked closely with technicians to explore machine capabilities, expanding technical knowledge and commercial understanding. • Collaborated with yarn spinners in Italy and Hong Kong to develop bespoke yarns for specific customer briefs. • Work contributed to major collections for Marks & Spencer, including collaborations with Julian McDonald.

• Designed high-end cashmere and woolen classic knits for prestigious brands including Burberry and Scotch House. • Collaborated with the in-house Hodgson Of Scotland brand to create unique knitwear pieces. • Managed freelance projects remotely, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to brand standards.