Driving change with people & process supported by technology

Chris Jones, Founder of JBSO Group

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Introducing Chris Jones

After originally training and working as ​an engineer, ​Chris joined a fashion services and technology company 30 years ago to implement ISO9001. Since then, he has helped over a hundred fashion brands, retailers, sourcing agents, and manufacturers to optimise their processes supported by new technologies and concepts, working in offices, showrooms and factories world-wide. He has worked in leadership roles and as trusted partner, with the largest and best-known global brands, retailers and manufacturers, not only in the fashion supply chain, but also in other industries, such as Sales Operations and Revenue Operations, Management Consultancy, Marketing Services, Financial Services, Publishing, Pharma, CRO and other regulated industries.

Process & Technology

Chris has the rare combination of business, process and technology knowledge and skills. Aligned to a creative, pragmatic and adaptable approach, innovative solutions are implemented in the most effective method according to the situation. An ability to quickly get up to speed in new situations and technologies enables both the big picture view, and to dive into the details. This is invaluable when mentoring teams to deliver transformation projects on time, on budget, and with lasting impact for the business.
He has brought leading process mapping and re-engineering skills and methodologies to transformation projects in many industries for nearly 30 years.

Fashion Supply Chain Expertise

Architecting, integrating and implementing a wide range of processes, software, solutions and data for brands, retailers, sourcing agents, and manufacturers for 30 years.
End to end knowledge of the fashion supply change from budgets, planning, design, development, costing, manufacturing and shipping to retail operations.
Extensive knowledge of solutions such as: Product Lifecycle Management, Retail Planning, CAD/CAM, 3D and Digital Product Creation, Supply Chain Collaboration, Factory Order Planning, Costing, Fabric Optimisation. Sustainability measurement tools.

Sales & Revenue Operations & Microsoft D365

Experience creating Sales Operations 'from the ground up' and tranforming existing functions.
Defining, implementing and managing business processes for FY Planning, Quotas, Pricing, GTM, Commissions, Sales process including lead acquisition, qualification and opportunity to close, digital contract management, onboarding, knowledge team, etc..
Architecting and integrating connected business systems centred around CRM, including Marketing Automation, pricing, proposal and contract management, finance accounts, invoices and payments, Licensing Mangement, Time capture, Customer Data Platform, and data insights via real time dashboards and complex analysis.
Expertise in Microsoft D365 Customer Engagement, Customer insights and Power Platform, and have worked with Microsoft Product Groups, and been member of D365 Customer Advisory Board.

Trusted partner and thought leadership

Proven history as a trusted partner to the CxO and teams of some of the largest and most successful global companies.

Deep insights to process and technology, combined with innovative solutions and pragmatic, adaptable execution have lead to many successful outcomes for these clients.

Contributor to Advisory Boards and thought leadership articles.

Blog & Articles

Articles, News & Blogs

Overcoming Challenges in Implementing Digital Product Passports: Key Steps for Fashion Companies

CHRIS JONES | OCTOBER 15, 2024 | 5 MINUTE READ     As sustainability takes centre stage in global fashion, Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are no longer a distant requirement—they are an immediate priority. Brands that act now will be poised to lead in c...
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Unlocking Global Potential: Strategic Business Implications of Digital Product Passports for Fashion Brands

CHRIS JONES | OCTOBER 10, 2024 | 7 MINUTE READ     As sustainability becomes non-negotiable, Digital Product Passports (DPPs) are transforming how global fashion brands meet consumer demands, streamline operations, and comply with evolving regulations. Be...
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Strategic Imperative: The Role of Digital Product Passports for UK Fashion Brands

CHRIS JONES | OCTOBER 01, 2024 | 5 MINUTE READ     In recent years, sustainability has moved from a niche interest to a central theme across industries, especially in fashion, where its implications are both broad and profound. However, while many brands ...
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Advancing the Circular Economy: The Role of the Digital Product Passport in the EU's Ecodesign Strategy

CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 28, 2024 | 4 MINUTE READ     In an era where sustainability is more than a buzzword, the European Union (EU) Commission spearheads initiatives that promise significant strides towards a sustainable future.The Ecodesign for Sustainable...
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Post-pandemic Pivot: Reshaping Your Sales & Revenue Operations for the Evolving Fashion Landscape

CHRIS JONES | FEBRUARY 22, 2024 | 4 MINUTE READ     The fashion industry has been one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, with store closures, supply chain disruptions, and changing consumer behaviour. As we emerge from the pandemic, it is clear that the ...
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Micro-Trends, Macro Impact: Revolutionizing Fashion Industry Demand Forecasting with AI

CHRIS JONES | FEBRUARY 12, 2024 | 5 MINUTE READ     With its ever-evolving trends and rapid-fire product cycles, the fashion industry faces a significant challenge in accurately predicting demand. Traditional forecasting methods, often relying on historic...
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Top 10 Trends Shaping the Future of Fashion for 2024

CHRIS JONES | JANUARY 24, 2024 | 10 MINUTE READ     2024 promises to be a vibrant tapestry woven with innovative threads in the fashion industry and its tech-savvy counterpart. From the ethical sourcing of materials to the personalised experiences powered...
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Human & Tech Harmony: Optimizing the Fashion Supply Chain with Collaborative Digital Tools

CHRIS JONES | JANUARY 17, 2024 | 4 MINUTE READ     Revolutionising the Industry Through Transparency and Shared SuccessThe fashion industry, long renowned for its glamorous facade, often hides a complex and sometimes harsh reality behind the scenes. From ...
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From Farm to Fashion Floor: Blockchain and Circular 2.0 Weaves a Sustainable Future

BY CHRIS JONES | JANUARY 10, 2024 | 7 MINUTE READ     The fashion industry, a dazzling behemoth shimmering with trendsetting threads, casts a long shadow on our planet. From water-guzzling cotton fields to overflowing landfills, its traditional "take-make...
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Unravelling the Future of Fashion: The Dawn of AI-Driven PLM Systems

BY CHRIS JONES | DECEMBER 13, 2023 | 4 MINUTE READ     In the dynamic and intricate world of fashion, Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems are not just beneficial; they are essential. The fashion supply chain, known for its complexity, rapid evoluti...
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Revolutionising Fashion: Harnessing Fashion PLM and Generative AI for Speed, Agility, and Market Dominance

BY CHRIS JONES | DECEMBER 05, 2023 | 5 MINUTE READ     In the ever-evolving world of fashion, speed is of the essence. Consumers today expect new styles and trends to hit the market faster than ever before, and fashion brands must keep up to stay competit...
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Helping fashion brands boost creative processes with Generative AI

BY CHRIS JONES | DECEMBER 1, 2023 | 2 MINUTE READ     ❓Are you a fashion brand considering utilising Generative AI to shorten your merchandising and design cycles and improve decision-making to boost profits?🌟Generative AI enables exciting creative proce...
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Embracing Circularity: How Fashion PLM Paves the Way for Sustainable Fashion Futures

BY CHRIS JONES | NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | 10 MINUTE READ     The fashion industry faces a growing imperative to embrace sustainability and circularity as consumers, activists, NGOs, and governments demand a more responsible approach to fashion production. The ...
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How Fashion PLM Can Enhance Supply Chain Resilience and Agility

BY CHRIS JONES | NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | 7 MINUTE READ     The fashion industry is renowned for its ever-changing trends and consumer demands, which makes it essential for brands to maintain a flexible and efficient supply chain. However, the fashion supply c...
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How Fashion PLM Can Support Omnichannel Retailing and Customer Experience

BY CHRIS JONES | NOVEMBER 1, 2023 | 6 MINUTE READ     In today's fashion landscape, consumers are no longer confined to a single channel for shopping. Omnichannel retailing has become the norm, as customers expect a seamless and personalised experience wh...
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How Fashion PLM Can Retain Talent and Engage Employees

BY CHRIS JONES | OCTOBER 25, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ     In an industry where trends shift rapidly, and consumer demands change overnight, fashion businesses must stay ahead of the curve. The fashion world, however, isn't just about glittering catwalks and s...
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Fashion Digital Value Chain Newsletter: Driving Digital Transformation in the Fashion Supply Chain - Leveraging Fashion PLM

BY CHRIS JONES | OCTOBER 16, 2023 | 7 MINUTE READ     Welcome to the first newsletter, which explores how Fashion PLM can support business strategies to drive growth by transforming complex processes in the fashion supply chain into a digital value chain....
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Navigating Fashion E-Commerce Challenges: High Returns, Cart Abandonment, and Low Customer Retention

BY CHRIS JONES | SEPTEMBER 25, 2023 | 7 MINUTE READ     In the high-stakes realm of fashion e-commerce, retailers grapple with seemingly omnipresent issues, including skyrocketing return rates, rampant cart abandonment, and fluctuating client retention, d...
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Choosing the Fashion PLM Solution for Your Business: Essentials Checklist

BY CHRIS JONES | SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 | 9 MINUTE READ     The fashion industry is evolving rapidly, with fast fashion, sustainable materials, and shifting consumer demands influencing the market landscape. In this dynamic environment, an integrated Product ...
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Expanding Horizons: How an Integrated Fashion PLM Solution Facilitates Brands in Tapping New Product Categories and Markets

BY CHRIS JONES | SEPTEMBER 05, 2023 | 4 MINUTE READ     Agility, adaptability, and foresight are critical to staying relevant and profitable in an ever-evolving fashion landscape. Brands often look to diversify their offerings or enter new geographical ma...
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Elevating Fashion PLM with Cloud Technology: Scalability, Security, and Flexibility Unleashed

BY CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 30, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ     In an era dominated by digital transformations, the fashion industry is no exception to the ever-increasing demand for efficiency, agility, and adaptability. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems f...
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Leveraging Fashion PLM to Enhance Collaboration and Communication with Suppliers and Partners

BY CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 24, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ     In the dynamic fashion industry, the importance of effective collaboration and communication with suppliers and partners cannot be understated. The seamless integration of design, sourcing, development,...
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Understanding Before Implementing: Harnessing Microsoft D365 for Streamlined Sales and Revenue Operations

BY CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 22, 2023 | 9 MINUTE READ     In today's digitally driven business landscape, integrated solutions are the key to unlocking optimal revenue operations. Microsoft Dynamics 365 (D365) Customer Engagement and Sales Insights have emerge...
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Augmenting Customer Experience and Loyalty through Fashion PLM

BY CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 15, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ     In the competitive landscape of the fashion industry, customer experience and loyalty have become the key differentiators. An exceptional customer experience doesn't just start when a customer walks int...
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Zero Carbon Academy insights: The Drivers for Visibility and Traceability in the Fashion Industry: Illuminating the Road Ahead

BY CHRIS JONES | AUGUST 3, 2023 | 6 MINUTE READ For the second time, Chris Jones provides Fashion Industry insights for the fashion industry subscribers of Zero Carbon Academy.You can find the insights here: The Drivers for Visibility and Traceability in ...
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Harnessing the Power of Fashion PLM: Optimising Planning, Inventory, and Replenishment

BY CHRIS JONES |AUGUST 1, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ     The fast-paced nature of the fashion industry demands a meticulous and highly dynamic approach to planning, inventory, and replenishment. Fashion Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software can be integra...
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The Challenges and Opportunities of Streamlining Fashion’s Creative Processes

BY CHRIS JONES | JULY 26, 2023 | 5 MINUTE READ     In recent years there have been many improvements in the creative processes of the fashion supply chain thanks to new DPC-3D tools streamlining processes, enabling faster decisions, and requiring fewer ph...
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How Fashion PLM Can Optimise Product Quality and Compliance

BY CHRIS JONES | JULY 13, 2023 | 6 MINUTE READ     We’re in a period where technology is rapidly evolving, and new tools such as Generative AI will have a profound and disruptive effect on the fashion industry in the near future. However, as with Generati...
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Zero Carbon Academy Insights: The Future of Generative AI in Fashion

BY CHRIS JONES | JUNE 29, 2023 | 5 MINUTE READ     JBSO Group is pleased to share that Chris Jones now provides Fashion Industry insights for Zero Carbon Academy.You can find the first article here: The Future of Generative AI in Fashion (zerocarbonacadem...
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How Fashion PLM Can Enable Faster and More Accurate Demand Forecasting

BY CHRIS JONES | JUNE 28, 2023 | 5 MINUTE READ     The fashion industry operates in a rapidly changing and highly competitive environment. Not only do consumer behaviour, market trends, supply chains, technology and geopolitical situations continuously ch...
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The PLM Fashion Report 2023: Why Integrations to PLM are driving digital transformation in Fashion

BY CHRIS JONES | JUNE 15, 2023 | 11 MINUTE READ     It's here! 🎉The Interline has published The Fashion PLM Report 2023.  And the exciting news for JBSO Group is that Chris Jones has contributed to this year's report with an editorial discussing what it ...
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What is Fashion PLM, and what's the future?

BY CHRIS JONES | MAY 31, 2023 | 4 MINUTE READ  Another week and another great discussion with Mark Harrop! We both recounted some of the conversations we've been involved in over the last few months and discussed some of the confusion prospects for new or...
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Fashion PLM and Manufacturing on Demand

BY CHRIS JONES | MAY 26, 2023 | 8 MINUTE READ  This week, as I considered the typical use cases stated for fashion PLM, I realised that Manufacturing on Demand (MOD) has been rising in prominence in fashion, and it would be a good point of discussion. How...
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Boosting Innovation in Fashion with Generative AI

BY CHRIS JONES | MAY 17, 2023 | 3 MINUTE READ  I recently had an interesting conversation with Mark Harrop. First, we discussed the range of solutions supporting the fashion supply chain, such as 2D CAD/CAM, 3D-DPC, Retail Planning, PLM, and ERP, amongst ...
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Sustainability: Defining SROI: Examples, Part 2

BY MARK HARROP X CHRIS JONES | APRIL 20, 2023 | 11 MINUTE READ  Identifying practical examples of sustainability improvement initiatives in fashion, and spotlighting the power of process breakdown and primary data.This article is part of a larger series o...
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Sustainability: Defining The ‘How’ And The ‘What’ Of SROI – Part 1

BY MARK HARROP X CHRIS JONES | APRIL 4, 2023 | 8 MINUTE READ  To begin to manage, and then mitigate, its impact on people and planet, fashion must first put in the work to understand and quantify the resources used in product creation.Although fashion nee...
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Sustainability: Preparing For Transparency With A Flexible Value Chain, Backed By Data

BY MARK HARROP X CHRIS JONES| MARCH 13, 2023 | 11 MINUTE READ  Across the entire, multi-tier, fashion supply chain, brands and their partners are now required to substantiate sustainability initiatives with evidence. The first building block for that disc...
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Sustainability: What is SROI, and why do we need it?

BY MARK HARROP x CHRIS JONES | FEBRUARY 22, 2023 | 7 MINUTE READ  As the global mandate for verifiable sustainability grows, and enhanced scrutiny breaks through environmental and ethical commitments that aren’t backed by data, fashion needs to recognise ...
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Testimonials

Mark Harrop, Founder & CEO WhichPLM

I have had the pleasure of working together with Chris on and off for over 30+ years. His career in the fashion sector started when he came to work for Microdynamics helping build CAD/CAM systems this gave Chris first-hand experience in pattern design and lay planning, and from this point onward I have tracked his career linked to design, development and manufacturing.

In later years his career moved on to PLM which took him from factory operations to brands and retail processes. His PLM & Merchandise Planning technology and process experiences have challenged him to become deeply knowledgeable both from a technology design standpoint and business process expertise.

He possesses an all-around understanding of the technologies and digital workflow across the fashion value chain.  I have recently had the pleasure to work with Chris again on a series of articles relating to environmental sustainability and its return on investment, it was refreshing to work together with a like-minded individual that possesses a vision for the future of the fashion industry. I would gladly recommend Chris to any fashion business that is looking for deep expertise in both technology and fashion best practice processes. 

John Hazen, Chief Digital Officer at Boot Barn

I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Chris and their team on multiple supply chain projects over the years. Chris is truly a world-class expert in the apparel systems and process space, and I would eagerly work with them again without hesitation. The fashion supply chain solutions in the apparel industry can be challenging and risky, but Chris and their team have a deep understanding of the nuances of our vertical. They have been invaluable in navigating the complexities and have consistently delivered exceptional results.

Akash Shah, MD, Coats Digital

I worked with Chris during the formation of Coats Digital. He worked with the leadership team, driving several initiatives primarily focused on building the operating backbone necessary to create a high-growth software business… i.e., streamlined processes, supported by integrated business solutions, and underpinned by data architecture to generate insights that provided a significant positive impact on the business. Chris utilized his deep knowledge of the fashion industry, processes, and technical capabilities to prioritize objectives, create innovative solutions and powerful tools to increase productivity and deliver valuable insights for business decision-making. Chris collaborates well across the organization, dives into the detail / hands-on and drives outcomes. I have no hesitation in recommending Chris

Keith Fenner, Managing Director / CEO

I directed Chris to create a Business & Sales Operations function to enable greater control and visibility of the business for the Leadership Team, which he achieved rapidly with implementation of processes, cadence and tools to support business operations and deliver data driven insights. Chris is driven to achieve high level strategic objectives, whilst also being able to get hands on with the detail, and coach the team to success. His ability to easily collaborate with Partners, Vendors, and colleagues across the Group, with formation of cross-functional teams that deliver outcomes with positive impact to the business, is key to his successful achievement of transformation projects. Chris can rapidly get up to speed on new challenges and uses creative yet pragmatic solutions to deliver successful outcomes.

Julie Tubby, Senior Director, Customer Ops

I've worked closely with Chris across a number of functional areas within senior leadership roles at Coats Digital. Initiallly, we worked together on customer facing PLM implementations where Chris expertly supported strategic direction of the product in addition to providing invaluable fashion industry contextual expertise. More recently we have worked on internally facing projects to support digitisation of process, process streamlining and internal business system implementations. Chris's work ethic is second to none, he has excellent attention to detail, strives for a successful delivery and is a pleasure to work alongside. I have no hesitation in recommending Chris

Wesley Ekman, Senior Sales Director

I have worked with Chris in different capacities over the last three years. Chris is a brilliant project manager with a strong work ethic. He has intricate knowledge of the Rev Ops function and was able to drive large automation projects around CRM, EDM, and connectors to Sales NAV. He has been pivotal in harnessing the internal systems to create meaningful insights in dashboards and reports, that have proven invaluable in driving the growth of the business.

Chris is very strong in communication, strategy, and execution, able to manage stakeholders on multiple levels, with clarity and focus, to achieve the desired outcome. Chris comes highly recommended by me for any senior Rev Ops/PMO/ Strategic role.

Raphael El-Saheli, ​Principal Program Manager, D365 Marketing & Customer Insights, Business Applications Group, Microsoft

Dear Chris, thank you and your team for the great partnership and for your excellency – the conversations on innovative topics resulting in technology improving the business with real ROI is what we are all striving for.

I want to thank you again personally for the great partnership – it has been one of the most positive rides and one of the best conversations on innovative topics with a customer we have had since GA of our product close to 4 years ago, also benefitting Microsoft. I am looking forward to the next project with you.

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For nearly 50 years, WhichPLM’s Mark Harrop has helped brands, retailers, and manufacturers make intelligent investments in technology and smart choices for process change.

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