Research output per year
Research output per year
Rachel is an academic leader and Reader in Fashion Buying and Merchandising at the University of Manchester. With a strong foundation in industry expertise, pedagogical innovation, and strategic leadership, her work bridges the gap between creative fashion innovation and commercial viability. Her internationally recognized research, teaching, and leadership contribute to the advancement of Fashion Product Development (FPD), shaping curriculum development and enhancing student learning through real-world industry connections.
With over a decade of industry experience specializing in product development, brand strategy, and sustainable fashion practices, Rachel brings first-hand expertise in retail operations, supply chain management, and strategic decision-making. This deep industry knowledge informs both her academic leadership and research, ensuring that fashion education remains dynamic, relevant, and forward-thinking
Academic Leadership & Teaching Innovation
Rachel has played a pivotal role in developing and leading undergraduate and postgraduate programmes within Fashion Business and Technology (FBT), ensuring alignment with both academic excellence and industry demands. As Discipline Head of Education and Programme Director for Undergraduate Studies, she has led curriculum design, programme operations, and strategic educational initiatives that place student experience, inclusivity, and employability at the forefront.
Her leadership in teaching and learning innovation has driven transformational change in pedagogy, curriculum development, and student engagement. Rachel has successfully:
Rachel's commitment to teaching excellence and pedagogical development has positioned her as a leading voice in fashion education, influencing best practices at institutional, national, and international levels.
Recognitions & Awards
Her contributions to teaching innovation and student experience have been recognized through numerous awards, including:
Distinguished Achievement Award – Teacher of the Year (2017,2020)
Leadership & Service
Rachel has extensive leadership experience in teaching and learning, contributing to strategic planning, policy development, and curriculum innovation at department, faculty, and university levels.
Her leadership roles include:
Rachel has led transformational change initiatives, including:
Rachel’s leadership extends beyond her department, as she actively contributes to university-wide initiatives, participating in multiple faculty and institutional groups to align teaching and learning strategies with broader institutional priorities.
Research & Scholarship
Rachel’s growing portfolio of publications in Fashion Buying and Merchandising and Fashion Product Development plays a vital role in shaping academic discourse and industry practice. Rachel is an active contributor to international conferences and industry networks, ensuring that her research resonates globally.
Her research focuses on:
Key Research Areas & Projects
Scholarship in Teaching & Learning
Rachel is dedicated to enhancing the student experience and cultivating pedagogy that fosters a profound sense of belonging and academic engagement. Rachel is an active contributor to international conferences, academic networks, and university teaching forums, ensuring that her research resonates globally.
Her research-led approach to teaching and learning focuses on:
Key Teaching & Learning Scholarship Initiatives
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):
Master of Education, Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector, , University of Bolton
1 Sept 2011 → 30 Jun 2012
Award Date: 31 Jul 2012
Bachelor of Arts, Fashion Clothing , University of Leeds
1 Sept 1997 → 30 Jun 2000
Award Date: 30 Jun 2000
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review
Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceeding › Chapter › peer-review