In Conversation with Anthony Millero
Tell us about your background:
I am a fashion professional with experience planning and developing all apparel product categories for men’s & women’s designer, sportswear, contemporary, and jeans markets. I have held positions at Liz Claiborne, TSE, and Calvin Klein, but much of my experience was at Donna Karan New York, where I was a merchandiser working on men’s and women’s jeans and sportswear lines, ultimately becoming the director of merchandising.
I enjoy a creative and collaborative atmosphere, and am comfortable leading a team and working cross-functionally to drive results. I have worked closely with designers to develop seasonal creative concepts and refine line assortments, ensuring alignment with market trends and brand identity. Additionally, I have partnered with product development teams to optimize margins while overseeing off-price product development, leading to consistent year-over-year growth.
After many years in the industry I received my master’s degree in Global Fashion Management at Fashion Institute of Technology and subsequently worked at Miami Fashion Institute, where I helped build curricula for a new college fashion program. Recently I was a professional lecturer of fashion merchandising at Marist University, and I am a doctoral candidate in the Consumer and Design Sciences department at Auburn University with a research focus on sustainability in textiles and apparel. In my time as an instructor I have taught a range of courses on topics including consumer culture, sustainable fashion, global sourcing, product development, and fashion merchandising strategies.
While I enjoy teaching, my passion lies in working directly with planning and line development. Beyond product strategy, I have played a role in operational efficiencies, establishing standard operating procedures for account management and development teams. I have also participated in executive-level strategic planning sessions, providing insights that have shaped long-term business objectives. My leadership experience includes managing merchandising teams and advising designers for special projects, fostering a collaborative and results-driven work environment.
What do you wish you’d known when you started out?
Patience is a virtue. While ambition is good and integral to long term success, there are times when appreciating the present and the team around you is important.
Best career advice you've ever received?
The fashion industry is very small. Do your best at any job you have (small or big) and you will be remembered for it.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
Effective leadership occurs when there are clear business strategies in place and a culture of empowerment. I personally thrive when I have ownership in my role, and I have learned as a manager to delegate responsibilities in order for my direct reports to similarly feel that. People will shine when their input is respected and sought out, making for a more productive team.
How has networking contributed to your professional growth and success?
Networking has been incredibly important to my career trajectory. Early on a personal friend referred me to an assistant job at a large apparel company, and the professional network established there has continued to be a support to this day. I have found many jobs through my connections, and created life-long friendships along the way.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-millero-b0511122/
Instagram: @evergreenfashionnyc
