"Consumer behaviour changes from day to day; the challenge is to anticipate and react to it."
Questions to Erik van Bilsen, Operations Director, Retail Division
Describe a typical working day
Always something new going on
extremely fast-moving and inspiring
"never a dull moment"
enjoyable to work with enthusiastic and ambitious people
Describe your background and experience
grew up in a fashion and textiles family
Higher Business Administration Diploma
sales experience: started in completely different sector – office automation industry
started as a Jr. Representative at Dimaggio, rose to Brand Manager, then manager of the shirts division (Dimaggio, King Shirts, Elmior and Royal Cotton); for the last 3½ years have been Operations Director of the McGregor Retail Division. Have now been working for the organization for almost 12 years.
What do you like about your job?
The constant alertness required to work in a retail organization. Consumer behaviour changes from day to day; the challenge is to anticipate and react to it. Working with a large group of people, and inspiring and motivating them. Huge variety of responsibilities and associated freedoms.
What do you like about working at the McGregor Fashion Group?
we're always on the lookout for new challenges & goals
the feeling that nothing is impossible
plenty of room for personal development
young, ambitious people with drive who've developed a sense of community
What has been your biggest challenge to date at the McGregor Fashion Group?
The rollout of our McG Menswear stores all over Europe.
The rollout of our McG Womenswear stores in the Netherlands and Belgium.
What personal contribution that you have made to the success of the McGregor Fashion Group are you most proud of?
The successful integration of Adam Menswear into the McGregor Fashion Group after the takeover in 2005.
