Meet the Team: Sarah Hansford, Associate Director

As Associate Director at EFI Training, Sarah Hansford plays a key role in expanding our bespoke training and apprenticeship programmes. Here's a look into Sarah's industry experience, background and advice for employers.

Sarah's Background

After studying her undergraduate degree in History of Art, Sarah joined Marks & Spencer's graduate scheme as a Trainee Buyer. She went on to build a successful career in buying, holding roles at renowned brands like The White Company, Arcadia Group and QVC.

In 2020, Sarah founded her own consultancy business, delivering a wide-range of projects, including a collaboration with the V&A Museum, a sustainable party decoration project, hair accessories for Oliver Bonas and the launch of Tess Daly's jewellery brand. 

Alongside her consultancy work, she taught Level 4 Fast-Track Buying & Merchandising at the Fashion Retail Academy (now part of EFI Group), strengthening her expertise in education and talent development.

Key Responsibilities at EFI Training

In her role at EFI Training, Sarah is responsible for driving business growth through the development and expansion of our bespoke training programmes and apprenticeships programmes. Drawing on her wide industry network and commercial insights, she works closely with clients to design and deliver solutions that meet evolving business needs across fashion and beauty industries.

What Inspired Sarah to Join the Fashion Retail Academy (now EFI Group)

When reflecting on what led her to join the Fashion Retail Academy (now EFI Group), Sarah shared: "I had always had an interest in education and enjoyed developing team members while I was in my buying roles. I chose to leave full time buying and was lucky that this coincided with the launch of the Fashion Retail Academy’s teacher training programme. I’ve been able to experience teaching Level 3, Level 4 and undergraduate degree courses, which has been a great way to gain an understanding of our students and the fantastic delivery teams. I wanted to combine this with the commercial experience I’d gained in my consulting business, so this role was the perfect opportunity to do this."

Looking Ahead for EFI Training

Sarah is particularly excited about expanding EFI Training's reach and highlighting the value of apprenticeships to businesses of all sizes. She believes there's still a lot of untapped potential and is passionate about spreading awareness.

Reflecting on her experience, Sarah shared:

"I wasn’t aware of how amazing the apprenticeship scheme can be for all businesses so I’m keen to get on with spreading that message and help retailers take advantage of this amazing training. I’m really excited about the opportunities with the London College of Beauty Therapy (also part of EFI Group) and developing our relationships with the beauty industry."

Sarah's Advice for Employers

Sarah encourages businesses considering apprenticeships or professional training to start a conversation:

"My advice would be to come and talk to us, even if you’re not completely sure what you need. The team have so much experience and knowledge, we can guide you towards the best solution and tailor it for your business’s specific needs."