Liberty is pleased to announce the promotion of Lydia King to the new role of group buying & merchandising director. This strategic appointment follows a successful 12 months for King at Liberty, during which she has served as interim buying director. Her promotion marks a significant step in Liberty’s vision to unify and strengthen its buying and merchandising functions, driving the brand forward in its mission to be a thought leader and key partner in luxury retail.
King ’s new role will align efforts to enhance brand partnerships, refine the customer experience, and accelerate growth across the business. Both buying and merchandising functions will now report directly into Lydia, creating a unified, collaborative approach that reflects Liberty’s ambitious retail strategy.
King brings a wealth of experience to the position, with an illustrious career spanning some of the most respected names in luxury retail. Previously the fashion director at Harrods, Lydia oversaw critical categories including womenswear, accessories, shoes, and childrenswear. Prior to this, she spent 13 years at Selfridges, where she held the pivotal role of womenswear buying and merchandising director. Lydia’s career began in luxury fashion PR, equipping her with a unique understanding of the industry’s interconnected disciplines.
Sarah Coonan, managing director of Liberty Retail, commented: “I am delighted to announce Lydia King as Liberty’s group buying & merchandising director. Over the past year, Lydia has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise, making a significant impact on our Buying team. This appointment represents a strategic step forward for Liberty, as we continue to build our retail business, enhance our reputation as a key luxury partner, and cement our position as a thought leader in the industry. I look forward to seeing Lydia’s continued influence as we embark on this exciting new chapter.”
King ’s promotion comes at a pivotal time for Liberty as the brand prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2025. Her leadership will be instrumental in curating the exceptional product offering and brand collaborations that have become synonymous with Liberty’s legacy.