In this edition of our "Meet the Team" series, we catch up with a long-standing and truly versatile member of the BC SoftWear family, who’s been with us since 2015. From stitching initials in embroidery to steering stock and exports, she’s worn many hats – and worn them well. Sophie has just been promoted to our new Purchasing & Export Manager, her latest hat!

“I’ve been here since 2015. I first started in the embroidery department, then spent several years managing customer services. I’ve recently stepped into a new role, in the world of purchasing and export, which has been an exciting shift.”

Company Christmas party, 2015

A New Challenge Behind the Scenes

Her latest role might be behind the scenes, but it’s absolutely central to our operations – especially when it comes to supporting our international clients.

“I’m basically the person who makes sure we’re never caught short on stock and that everything we send makes it to the right place, especially for our international customers.”

“It’s a bit like air traffic control for towels and bathrobes!”

From managing purchasing to keeping exports on schedule, she plays a vital role in keeping our global operations ticking.

“It’s been brilliant to take on a new challenge and see a different side of the business. I still draw on all the product knowledge I’ve built up over the years, but now I get to work more behind the scenes, actually making things happen.”

A Day Full of Variety

“No two days are ever quite the same, which I love.”

Most mornings begin with checking purchase orders and chasing supplier updates. From there, she switches gears to oversee freight and export documentation, juggling logistics and timelines to ensure everything arrives exactly where it should.

“There’s always plenty to juggle, but it’s satisfying knowing I’m helping the whole operation run smoothly from the ground up.”

Full Circle – And a Stitch of Nostalgia

If she could trade jobs for a day?

“I’d love a day back in the embroidery department. That’s where my journey at BC SoftWear began and I still have a real fondness for that part of the business; there’s something calming about stitching.”

“Plus, it would be fun to be hands-on with the products again.”

Our Culture, In Three Words

“Supportive, innovative and passionate.”

A simple but fitting way to describe the energy that drives BC SoftWear.

No Job Too Small

One of the things she loves most about BC SoftWear?

“We all really do wear multiple hats. There have been days when I’ve jumped in to help fold towels or assist in packing orders.”

“It’s an all-hands-on-deck mentality that keeps things interesting and makes us feel like a close-knit team; no one’s afraid to roll up our sleeves and pitch in when it gets busy, no matter the task!”

BC SoftWear's 20th Anniversary party, Pennyhill Park 2022

A Few Fun Facts…

If she had a superpower?

“I’d love to have the power to stop time. There are never enough hours in the day to get everything done, so a little pause button would be perfect!”

If BC SoftWear had a mascot?

“A big, cuddly bear in one of our bathrobes. We’re all about wrapping our clients (and their guests) in comfort and luxury.”

Weirdest thing on her desk?

“A little crocheted cactus! I made it during lockdown and now it’s still sitting on my desk. It’s low-maintenance and doesn’t need watering but still adds a bit of greenery – the ideal office plant, really!”

Go-to comfort food?

“Definitely a warm, cheesy lasagna. There’s just something so satisfying about layers of pasta, sauce and melted cheese.”

Whether it’s keeping global shipments on track or jumping in to help the team pack orders, she brings adaptability, insight and genuine care to everything she does. Stay tuned for more team stories soon – we’re only just getting started.

BC SoftWear Summer Party, Pennyhill Park, 2024