Julie has been VP of Planning and Allocation here at Laura Canada for two and a half years. We recently asked her a few questions about her role with our team, her plans for 2020, and more.

Hi Julie! Can you tell us about your role as VP of Planning and Allocation?
Simply put, I’m responsible for making sure that the right inventory goes to the right Laura and Melanie Lyne stores at the right time.
What is the biggest challenge involved in that process?
I’d say that the biggest challenge is understanding and catering to different customer needs in different markets. Still, what works best in one place will usually work best everywhere. The key, of course, is having good products.
What did you do before joining our team?
I started my career 25 years ago as a buyer for A. Gold and Sons. Then I worked as a location manager at Boutique Jacob for four years, before spending another four years at Reitmans. After that I was in planning and allocation at Aldo for sixteen years, overseeing 900 stores. Finally, I came to Laura and have been here for two and a half years.
What are you most proud of since working at Laura Canada?
The number-one thing I’m most proud of is my team and their open-mindedness. When I started, there were people who were here for many years. I’ve been so pleased to see that we can maintain a balance between their established knowledge and all of the new ideas and approaches that are brought to table by new people.
What advice would you give someone who wants to work in planning and allocation?
Be passionate about it, that’s it! Things are always going to change in this field, so in order to keep up with how dynamic it can be, the most important thing is to love what you do, love your team, and know that it’s the right work for you.
How do you manage to maintain a balance between your professional and family life?
It can be very challenging! I have three kids under the age of thirteen and they all do sports, so there’s always a lot going on. But again, in both professional and family life, the only way to succeed is to love it and dedicate yourself entirely. When you’re committed and devoted, and you love both of those parts of your life in different ways, you can make anything work.
What are you most looking forward to this year?
I’m definitely looking forward to taking my team to the next level. We’re ambitious and driven, so we’re all eager to push and challenge ourselves in what we do. I’m very excited to see them grow and reach their fullest potential, and I think 2020 will be a wonderful year for that!

Quick Six
1. What is your favorite color?
Blue.
2. What is your favorite place in Montreal?
I love the restaurant Escondite, and Lac des Deux Montagnes is a beautiful place to jog.
3. What are your hobbies?
I like to participate in triathlons, and I really enjoy trying new things when cooking.
4. What is your favorite item from the new collection?
I adore our Baroque Print Bomber Jacket, especially when put together with the Melanie Lyne Premium Denim!
5. Who is your style icon/biggest inspiration?
Jennifer Aniston.
6. Where are you going on your next vacation?
We always go to Mexico as a family, our next trip will be in July.