• Successfully heads product development and the product lifecycle for volume driving categories.• Directs a team comprising of Product Managers and Junior Product Managers.• Demonstrates a proven ability of establishing and meeting deadlines.• Develop new line plans using trend, competitive and sales analysis.• Executes the new product development and sourcing process in collaboration with an overseas team and vendors. • Increased retail sales through innovative product development.• Create and use margin charts to analyze profitability of products.• Resourced items to grow profit margins.• Negotiate costs with vendors to ensure meeting margins while maintaining quality goals.• Implemented a continual sourcing process to ensure new ideas are ready for slotting into new line plans.• Lead consumer insight surveys to understand the voice of consumer and ensure profitable product lines.• Participate in task forces to set SOPs (standard operating procedures).

Responsible for buying footwear categories which represented 41% of the total business in retail sales for the Nine West retail specialty stores.Co-managed an assistant buyer for the Nine West Retail footwear team.Identified and executed growth opportunities which lead to increased efficiency in inventory and lower production costs. Financially responsible for balancing open to buy based on changes and demands in the retail environment. Strategically reviewed promotions and pricing to reach sales goals.Worked with design team on product development opportunities. Utilized communication skills (written and verbal) to share information with executives, peers, and the field via memos, conference calls and presentations.Partnered with visual manager to create impactful displays.Continuously researched fashion trends and competitive shopped to have a well rounded understanding of what is going on in the market.Conducted store visits to learn about selling and the store location.

Accountable for assisting in product selection across several different product categories (footwear, handbags, scarves, belts, jewelry, watches, and impulse items).Managed OTB and on order status weekly.Developed weekly store communications on promotions, markdowns, visual changes, and product knowledge.Created planograms utilizing fashion trends and selling information to effectively use floor space and provide a memorable shopping experience. Worked with allocations team to ensure proper distribution of goods.Built strong relationships with external vendors for product development, price negotiation, placing orders, while ensuring accuracy and timing of merchandise.

Assisted in product selection (categories included - footwear, handbags, scarves, belts, watches, jewelry and impulse items).Managed the submission and accurate entry of orders.Assisted in the launch of two new retail concepts.Responsible for execution of all markdowns and store promotions.

Liaison between account executives and wholesale accounts regarding order entry, accuracy, and delivery. Managed 5 department stores and independent accounts of the Southern and Western United States.Maintained vessel schedule for goods coming into the USA.Worked with sales representatives and accounts during market appointments.