Meet the Maker: Gary
Head of Private Client and E-Commerce Operations
Five years in, Gary is the human bridge between our archives and our digital storefront. As Head of Private Client and E-commerce Operations, he’s the one making sure every order – whether for a loyal regular or a new customer—feels personal. If he’s not refining our website or smoothing out warehouse logistics, he’s likely looking for that next small, bespoke touch to make a client’s day.
What's your name, and how long have you been at Derek Rose?
My name is Gary Johnson, and I've been with Derek Rose for five years. During that time, I've worked in E-commerce Client Services, helping ensure our customers receive the highest level of service and attention they deserve.
Can you talk us through what you do and what a typical day looks like for you?
My official title is Head of Private Client and E-commerce Operations Manager. No two days are ever the same. I oversee our private clients and provide them with a bespoke and personal experience. I then also oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of our e-commerce business.
One moment I might be helping a long-standing customer find exactly the right gift or arranging a bespoke request, and the next I'm solving a website issue and coordinating with our warehouse. I'm always striving to give my very best to improve the customer experience.
What's your favourite memory of working here?
One of my favourite memories is helping a particular customer with a special request and seeing how much it meant to them when everything came together. Those moments remind me that we're not just selling products; we're part of people's celebrations, milestones, and everyday rituals.
When I can see that someone is ordering something for a special occasion, I often reach out and chat about how we can make it more special for them.
What's the best thing about working here, what makes Derek Rose special?
The people, it's like a family. There is a genuine care and pride for both the product and the customer that runs through the whole company. We pay attention to details, and there's a real commitment to quality that hasn't changed despite how much the business has evolved.
What do you do outside of work? Any hobbies?
I’m very family-oriented, with a wife and two kids. I enjoy travelling, spending time with family and friends, and keeping active with my Labradoodle, AJ. I also enjoy golf and swimming!
What does “Live As You Please” mean to you?
To me, it means feeling comfortable and confident enough to enjoy life on your own terms. Whether that's relaxing at home, travelling, working, or spending time with loved ones, it's about having the freedom to do (and wear) what makes you happy without compromise or pleasing anyone else – apart from yourself.
What's the most unusual request you've had — and did you make it happen?
We've had some wonderfully creative requests over the years, but one that stands out was a large order of personalised dressing gowns and eye masks for a client heading to New York at very short notice. Each piece was embroidered with the client's logo and initials, and we even incorporated a hidden message inside the garments, which was a really special touch.
The deadline was incredibly tight, so it required a huge amount of coordination between our suppliers, embroidery team and warehouse. Seeing it all come together and leave on time was incredibly rewarding. It's a great example of how far we're willing to go to create something unique for our clients.
What would you want people to know about what goes into making a Derek Rose product?
A huge amount of thought goes into every product, from fabric selection and fit development to quality control and customer feedback. The finished product might look effortless, but there's an incredible amount of expertise and attention to detail behind it.
100 Years. A hundred pieces.
