Leslie Hard

Leslie began her career in New York City with Giorgio Armani in the early 90’s working as part of the menswear wholesale team. She then moved on to collaborate with Dolce & Gabbana as the women’s Sales Director and launched their second collection, D&G to United States and Candian markets successfully building an extensive mutli-million dollar business with department and specialty stores throughout the country.

Upon relocating to Milan, Italy she joined Jil Sander. For over 15 years she manned the wholesale men’s and women’s teams for the United States and Canadian markets. Leslie travelled extensively throughout the United States as primary educator and mentor for Jil Sander in all freestanding boutiques and department stores. After a decade of working exclusively for the brand she was elevated to Brand Development Manager for the house. She then started working side by side with the Creative Director and collection design team merchandising for both men’s and women’s collections. Leslie further developed and managed a multitude of vital product launch events along side the creative and PR teams.

Upon the departure of Ms. Sander from the house in 2014, Leslie decided it was the perfect moment to branch out solo, launching her successful Brand Development consultancy based in Milan.

Having formed her own consultancy, Leslie collaborates in various capacities with many of the most influential and important fashion houses in Milan, Paris and NYC as well as establishing more tailor-made collaborations with luxury niché Milan-based collections.

Leslie Hard is highly experienced in all facets of developing successful brands – from idea to conception, brand identity, product merchandising, distribution and production.

Leslie’s extensive, unique background combined with close, personal relationships with premier specialty stores and industry leaders have provided her with a uniquely comprehensive understanding of the luxury sector.