Fashion Talks: Jay Solanki

Location: EB_M01

Jay Solanki: Chief Merchandising Officer at Stella McCartney

‘Jay Solanki, Chief Merchandising Officer at Stella McCartney, talks about his 25 years in luxury retail and the power of storytelling in fashion brands.’

Event description 
Join Jay Solanki, former Chief Merchandising Officer at Stella McCartney, for an inside look at a 25-year career in luxury retail and the power of storytelling in building unforgettable fashion brands.

Drawing on decades of experience at the highest level of the industry, Jay will explore how strong narratives shape collections, connect with audiences and drive commercial success. From merchandising strategy to brand identity, this session reveals how storytelling sits at the heart of modern luxury.

Key themes include:

• Why storytelling is essential to brand value

• Translating creative vision into retail success

• Building emotional connections with customers

• Lessons from leading global luxury businesses

• Navigating long-term careers in fashion

Perfect for students interested in buying, merchandising, branding, or creative business, this talk offers practical insight into how strategy and storytelling work together in the real world of luxury fashion.

This is an interactive session, so bring your questions about careers in retail, brand strategy, or the future of luxury fashion — there will be time for discussion and shared learning.

Speakers

Jay Solanki is the Chief Merchandising Officer at Stella McCartney, with 25 years of experience in luxury retail. He specialises in brand storytelling, merchandising strategy, and building emotional connections with customers, offering students insight into how narrative and creativity drive successful fashion brands.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaysolankisolanki/