Leslie Smith Email & Phone Number

Vancouver, Bc, Ca

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

RETAIL OPERATIONS:Successfully manages the retail operations of the Vancouver Aquarium with sales of 5.0M. As Product development expert, maintains product assortments that align with the Ocean Wise vision and mission Oversees the purchasing and analysis of all store categories and divisions, including the wholesale division and is experienced in meeting financial goals and understands the value and benefits of a sales and customer service-oriented sales team. Providing a branded on-line experience that showcases the Ocean Wise product line and engages global purchasing.  Known as an Expert in working directly with factories associated after costs by purchasing through distributors and flexibility to develop products not currently available such as “plastic-less” plush toys. Through buying strategies and communicating the needs of Ocean Wise with suppliers, has been able to build a cohesive and loyal relationships. This has allowed negotiations of a variety of business benefits such as: “payment” terms, freight allowance, custom procedures, pricing, product donations, and manufacturing changes.WHOLESALE OPERATIONS: Implemented and started up the Wholesale department Developed Wholesale business strategy Designing and selection of merchandise categories and products,  Attending Shows in Asia to source suppliers  Working with Brokers and Shippers to directly import products.  Developing a client list Hiring sales and administration staff to implement the wholesale business strategy

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Implemented and set up Food Services department for the first time. In the first-year sales were $40,000. Built revenue to a 2 million business, handed off to become its own department.  Implemented and started up the Food Services department Started the first food services Café at the Vancouver Aquarium Developed Food services strategy, including hiring of staff to implement the strategy Designed food services outlets

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Responsible for leading the operations and front gate admission teams in day-to-day operations