Victoria Watkins
I have over 20 years of experience in operations, project management, events, partnerships & people management across multiple regions. I am a strategic thinker confident liaising with all key stakeholders in any project. This enables me to enter any company at a senior level and quickly influence change and become an integral part of any team.
I am a firm believer in improvement, not for the sake of it, but in automating systems and creating the best possible infrastructure for efficiency and success. Having experience over multiple markets in SEA, as well as, the UK I understand the importance of cohesion in systems and frameworks; and the need for adaptability to individual market standards.
I have a proven track-record of delivering projects, on time and within budget; whilst creating future scalability for growth.
Skilled at building and developing effective and culturally diverse teams, my approachable, yet firm and confident personality as a project leader, or support function allows me to identify opportunities to increase workflow efficiencies, while supporting co-workers in multiple markets, acting as a touchpoint both internally and with external partners – all with clear trackable business metrics.
What I Do
Leadership
Using a firm yet approachable leadership style to manage cross market teams, emphasing communication, individual responsibility, skill development and clear communication with all stakeholders to deliver exceptional projects with exacting standards.
Operations
Skilled at building and implementing frameworks; over multiple markets to enhance operational efficiencies, internally and in conjunction with external suppliers and stakeholders. All frameworks are data driven ensuring trackable metrics at every project stage; from lead generation, critical path management and final execution within budget.
Human Resources
I have extensive experience implementing HR policies and procedures maintaining company ethos and values which can be rolled out and adapted to multiple markets, incorporating differentials in legal requirements and cultural nuances. Adept at onboarding and exit strategies; the key element is the ability to asses and work with team leaders to increase skill development and ensure each team member is in the best position for themselves and the company.
Events
Experience in both corporate and B to C events ranging from London Fashion Week and Pitti Uomo in the UK and Europe as well as sales, shopping and brand awareness events. This includes but, not limited to, ideation, forecasting & budgets, price modeling, supplier sourcing & negotiation, team allocation, critical path management with a fully fledged plan B always in place.
Testimonials
I had the pleasure of working with Victoria Watkins for 18 months from 2017 to 2018, during which time she showcased exceptional dedication and skill. Victoria's contribution to our team was invaluable, and her commitment to excellence was evident in every task she undertook. Her promotion to head up regional HR and business operations was well-deserved, and her relocation from Singapore to Bangkok further exemplifies her readiness to take on new challenges. Victoria proved to be an asset to our firm, consistently delivering results and demonstrating leadership qualities that inspired her colleagues. I highly recommend Victoria for any role that values professionalism, integrity, and a strong work ethic. If you would like a reference check on Victoria, do not hesitate to reach out to me on LinkedIn
Victoria possesses a remarkable ability to thrive in diverse environments and readily adapt to new challenges. She has consistently demonstrated the ability to influence positive change. As Operations Director at TALA, she successfully launched the online platform, negotiated strategic partnerships, and optimised business efficiencies, contributing significantly to the company's development. She excels at approaching challenges with innovative thinking and practical solutions. Her ability to implement systems that support business goals and achieve scalability demonstrates her strategic mind and strong problem-solving skills. With extensive experience, combined with strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Victoria is a valuable asset to any organisation.
It was a privilege to work with Victoria Watkins during her time at TALA. Victoria's professionalism, keen insight, and genuine enthusiasm for our collaboration left a lasting impression. Her ability to articulate clear goals and collaborate effectively made our partnership both productive and enjoyable. Victoria is undoubtedly an asset to any team or project she chooses to engage with, and I look forward to the opportunity of working together again in the future.
I've had the good fortune to work with Vix on a number of consultancy projects, and she's made every one of them so much easier. You need clarity getting to the root of problems, creativity and ingenuity in finding solutions, and commitment and consideration for others when getting results. Vix has those skills in spades. She has a particular skill in balancing commercial and operational needs that I most admire. She's also exceptional when dealing with some pretty difficult customers! If Vix isn't on your shortlist, she should be.
I worked with Victoria for over four years as a key supplier. Victoria is a firm negotiator who understands fair practice and market rates on both the supply and retail side. She is a problem solver and always free for a brainstorm to ensure we were able to create the exact product the designer had envisioned. She is very resourceful sourcing components and always able to work together to overcome any challenges we may face. Always a pleasure to work with, Victoria approaches the most difficult of challenges with patience, understanding and determination. I would be delighted to work with Victoria again and would recommend her leadership skills to any organisation, and also a wonderful Project Manager.
I had the pleasure of working with Victoria while at Tickled Media Pte. Ltd. Where she held the position of Head of New Markets as well as a position on the senior leadership team for the group, including HR and Operations overlooking all markets. Although holding a new markets role she was asked to wear many hats during her tenure at the company. She did so with ease and triumphed at every task, surpassing expectations of her colleagues and team. This included launching a new product which she took from ideation to implementation. Victoria is creative and dedicated to her team, role and the company and always highly motivated. She will and has been highly rated by her peers. In my opinion she is an excellent leader that takes initiatives and will manage any situation with a clear response and understanding.
I had the pleasure of meeting Victoria at collaborative event last year between the brand she was working for and my fine jewellery line. From our initial interaction, I was immediately struck by her warmth and professionalism. Victoria is not only communicative and easygoing but deeply committed to her work. Our collaboration continued with another event at Design Orchard during the holiday season. Victoria's impeccable management skills were evident in every aspect of the event, from preparation to execution. Her ability to convey the brand's values to clients with great attention to detail was really admirable. Anyone fortunate enough to work with Victoria in the future can expect a dedicated and capable professional who consistently tries to deliver exceptional results.
I had the privilege of working with Victoria & through interactions, it's easily known to all around that she's a born leader who supports & leads her team with utmost professionalism & respect. She's resourceful, able to build & grow projects from the ground up and see them through till the end with meticulous attention to detail. Victoria is quick to think on her feet to find the best solutions & always up for a challenge. I look forward to another opportunity of working together with her again.
I had the privilege of working under Victoria during her time as Operational Director at Totally Tala. Victoria not only excelled in her role but was also an invaluable support to me as a manager. Her strategic mindset and hands-on approach significantly enhanced our operational efficiency. Victoria navigates complexities with ease and implements effective solutions, showcasing strong analytical and leadership skills. What stood out was her exceptional ability to foster a collaborative work environment. Victoria motivated us to deliver the best work consistently, contributing to the overall success of our projects. I wholeheartedly recommend Victoria for any leadership role & role requiring operational expertise. Her professionalism, dedication, and supportive nature make her an asset to any organization.
I have had the pleasure of working with Victoria on multiple projects over the years and I am impressed with their exceptional leadership and management skills. She has a unique ability to inspire and motivate the team to achieve great results. Victoria is an excellent communicator and always ensures that everyone is on the same page, leading to a seamless and productive workflow. She has a keen eye for identifying areas of improvement and implementing solutions to drive success. I highly endorse Victoria as a team leader and manager and am confident that she will continue to excel in any future endeavors.
Victoria is an incredible team player and will always go above and beyond what's required to ensure any project is completed in due time with white glove treatment. I was lucky enough to work with Victoria on a number of key projects that required an enormous amount of detailed attention. Truly a fantastic ambassador for any brand with numerous skills which can be applied to a number of disciplines.
I had the pleasure of working with Victoria for over 2 years during my time at Hackett. Her talent for managing multiple projects,from in house presentations to photo shoots and international exhibitions,whilst being a go-to problem solver for many a quandary in the studio never ceased to amaze. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Victoria for any role which requires great organisational skills teamed with total dedication (and patience !)
It’s rare that you come across standout talent like Victoria! I had the pleasure of working with Victoria for 5 years at Hackett collaborating on several project teams and special events. I was particularly impressed by Victoria’s ability to handle even the toughest clients—and effortlessly. That skill often takes years to develop among customer professionals, but it seemed to come perfectly naturally to her. No matter how tense a meeting, Victoria made sure everyone left with a smile. As a team member or a leader, Victoria earns my highest recommendation.
Victoria is a great all rounder who is unphased by anything that is thrown at her . She always rises to the challenge and never does just enough, but instead she exceeds everyone's expectations with her mix of creativity, capability, efficiency and cheerfulness. Victoria is a great people person and is in her element organising fashion shows and exhibitions involving a multinational clientele. Everything that Victoria does is natural and unforced and she has the rare ability to make everything she has organised look effortless, but that's probably because she has organised it all perfectly in advance . I think she would be a fantastic asset in any role involving a creative approach. She is also warm , likable, and absolutely honest.
Victoria is a fantastic event organiser. One of those rare people that look into the details of events and not just the big picture. All of our events from Hog roast to Tarantino party were executed flawlessly. My first New year was spent in Siem reap and we had the pleasure of spending it at Under Construction, complete with outdoor ice bar, drinks promotions and late night snacks which saw us off into the night/morning. If you need something organised Victoria is the go to lady for the job!!
