Rachel Parker-Strak

Rachel Parker-Strak is a Reader in Fashion Buying and Merchandising at the University of Manchester, leading the Fashion Business and Technology (FBT) discipline. She holds academic leadership roles including Associate Dean for Digital and Flexible Learning in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Discipline Head of Education for FBT, and Programme Director for Undergraduate Studies. Her academic journey includes a Master of Education from the University of Bolton (2012) and a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Clothing from the University of Leeds (2000).

Rachel’s research bridges academic theory and industry practice, focusing on Fashion Product Development (FPD), sustainable fashion, and strategic frameworks for industry alignment. Key areas include managing complexity in product development, industry collaboration, and curriculum innovation. She is a recognized leader in pedagogical innovation, emphasizing student engagement, inclusivity, and real-world project-based learning.

Her awards include the Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2020), Honorary Fellow (2021), and Fellow (2023) of the Institute of Teaching and Learning. She drives interdisciplinary initiatives, mentoring early-career academics and fostering student partnerships to enhance employability and industry readiness.