We Had A Chat With Rachel Gilbert’s National Retail Manager.

Relationship building is a HUGE part of our roles as Retail Recruiters. Even if we don’t always partner with a brand, we still maintain and foster the connections made. You can really learn so much more about a brands way of working and brand culture this way!

In saying that - let’s take 5 minutes to get to know one of our long-time friends of The Talent Mill, Louise Pozzobon – National Retail Manager for Rachel Gilbert!

Louise has had an exceptional retail career. Let’s learn more about what about what her role entails and why she loves working for Rachel Gilbert.

For those that don’t know much about the brand, Rachel Gilbert is a Australian luxury fashion brand spanning across women’s evening, ready-to-wear and bridal. Known for their modern approach to event dressing. The brand has experienced rapid growth in recent years giving the brand more global presence, capturing the eyes of celebrities across the globe!

1. What first sparked your interest in working in retail?

I’ve always loved working with people, and I’ve always loved fashion! Retail felt like the perfect space to bring those two passions together.

2. Can you tell us a bit about your current role and what a typical day looks like for you?

As the National Retail Manager at Rachel Gilbert, no two days are ever the same. I’m lucky to be across a bit of everything. I work closely with our boutique teams every day, checking in with managers, supporting client experiences, and ensuring we’re consistently delivering at a high standard. I’m often on the shop floor too, connecting with clients and seeing firsthand how our product comes to life. Alongside that, I’m involved in everything from growing the retail business to trade planning, marketing feedback, and broader business strategy. It’s a fast paced, collaborative role and that’s exactly what I love about it.

3. How did you land your current role—what was the journey like?

I was lucky enough to be approached by Ange from The Talent Mill four years ago, and that moment really changed everything. I started as the Boutique Manager at Armadale, moved into a cluster leadership role, and eventually into my current national role. It’s been a really natural and rewarding progression. I’ve worked hard, learned a lot along the way, and have had so much fun doing it. Most of all, I’ve been fortunate to work for a business that truly values its people, which makes all the difference.

4. What’s been the biggest learning curve in your career so far?

Trusting my gut, especially in hiring. You can teach product knowledge, but attitude, energy, and work ethic? That’s the gold. I’ve learned that when someone aligns with your values, magic happens.

5. What’s something about your job people might not expect or know?

It’s incredibly cross functional! I’m involved in everything from product feedback and commercial strategy to growing the next generation of leaders. It’s not just about what happens on the shop floor, it’s the big picture too. I also collaborate closely with our Head of Brand to build out quarterly team training nights that help bring each new collection to life. They have become such a highlight. They're engaging, energising, and a chance to connect, learn, and have fun together.

6. Describe your job in three words.

- Dynamic

- Fulfilling

- People first.

7. What do you love about working for Rachel Gilbert?

The people, without a doubt. I’m surrounded by a team that is passionate, driven, and genuinely supportive. And the product? There’s nothing like it. Every new collection continues to raise the bar. Rachel Gilbert truly sets the standard for premium event wear. The craftsmanship, the design, the attention to detail, there’s nowhere else that compares. Being part of a brand that’s constantly evolving and redefining excellence is incredibly inspiring.

8. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to others looking to pursue a career in retail leadership?

Remember, leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room or having the final say. It’s about creating an environment where your team feels safe to be themselves and empowered to grow. The best leaders I’ve worked with roll up their sleeves, have the hard conversations, stay curious, and leave their ego at the door. Lead with heart, listen with intention, and never underestimate the impact you can have on someone’s career just by believing in them.

9. When you recruit team members, what do you look for?

Attitude is everything. I look for people who show up with authenticity, warmth, and a genuine love of connecting with others. I also look for curiosity. People who want to learn, grow, and understand the “why” behind what we do tend to thrive. In retail, things move fast, so hiring team members who are adaptable, proactive, and emotionally intelligent makes all the difference.

10. What do you love most about what you do?

Without a doubt my people. Supporting someone through their growth journey, watching them gain confidence, or achieve something they never thought possible, that’s the real reward. It’s the “why” behind everything I do. I also feel incredibly lucky to be part of such meaningful client moments. Rachel Gilbert dresses are "made to be

experienced" and I love that I get to play a part in that, whether it’s a milestone, wedding, or once in a lifetime event. It’s a privilege to help bring those moments to life.

11. Coffee or tea?

Coffee, always and forever!

12. What is a fashion trend you are wanting to make a come back?

Anything but skinny jeans!

13. Best book or podcast you’ve recently enjoyed?

I flew through The Housemaid series, three books in a month. So addictive!

14. Fave Rachel Gilbert piece at the moment?

Tough choice, it’s very hard to pick just one, but I’d say the 'Charlotte Gown'. It’s so timeless, elegant, and makes every woman who tries it feel incredible.

15. What’s your secret talent or hobby outside of work?

I’m fragrance obsessed! I love exploring niche brands, learning about different notes and compositions, and building my collection (I have an addiction 😅). One day, I’d love to create my own signature scent!

If you’d like to connect with Sharna to find your dream role or to become a new client of ours we would love to connect, please email Sharna@thetalentmill.com.au today.

By Sharna Vantarakis // Edited By Shannon Parsons