Mr Paul Mackie

Paul Mackie is Head of Department for Fashion & Textiles at Winchester School of Art, University of Southampton. He provides strategic leadership across education, research, staff development, external engagement and resource planning, helping to shape the future direction of one of the UK's leading centres for fashion and textile education. 
 
Before entering higher education, Paul developed a successful international career working with leading UK and global retailers, brands and consultancy organisations. His commercial experience spans buying, merchandising, product development, sourcing, licensing, franchising and business consultancy. Most recently, he served as Senior Buyer for an international retailer, working across the UK, Europe and the Far East. 
 
Throughout his industry career, Paul developed and managed successful product ranges across womenswear, menswear and accessories, leading key product categories for department stores and both national and international retailers. He has extensive experience working with suppliers, factories and design teams throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept creation and sourcing through to manufacturing, distribution and retail delivery. An experienced negotiator, he has managed complex supplier relationships and international supply chains, building strategic partnerships and delivering sustainable commercial growth in highly competitive markets. 
 
Alongside his work with major retailers, Paul has supported emerging and niche lifestyle brands, helping them develop products, strengthen market positioning and expand into new national and international markets. This combination of commercial leadership, product expertise and global market experience continues to inform his approach to academic leadership and curriculum development. 
 
Paul's academic interests sit at the intersection of fashion, business and innovation. His expertise includes fashion management, branding, consumer behaviour and the strategic development of fashion businesses. His work explores how organisations respond to changing consumer expectations, technological change, sustainability challenges and evolving global markets. 
 
As Head of Department, Paul leads the strategic development of Fashion & Textiles at Winchester School of Art, overseeing academic programmes, research culture, staff development and external partnerships. He is committed to creating an inclusive and collaborative environment that enables students and colleagues to thrive while ensuring education remains closely connected to professional practice and industry needs. 
 
Paul also contributes to sector-wide enhancement activities, including serving on a QAA Reference Group review panels, and works with organisations such as UKFT to strengthen collaboration between higher education and industry. Through his leadership and external engagement, he champions an internationally connected, industry-informed approach to education that prepares graduates to become the next generation of creative leaders.