General Manager of all retail operations for this non-profit fund raising store. Duties include the purchasing of merchandise while maintaining sales and stock plans, the management of all consignment vendors, and the processing of all vendor donated merchandise. Activities also include volunteer recruitment and training, along with the development of a paid staff. The position reports directly to the President of the Board of Directors. Accomplishments include greatly increasing the average sales check through the development of better businesses, and an increase in gross margin on purchased merchandise.

Under my leadership the store’s business and profitability reached record levels. Sales per visitor increased to above industry standards. Expenses were cut 30% and the store now achieves a net profit of 20% on gross sales. Web related sales growth levels have exceeded industry growth levels and the online store sales were among the highest nation wide for museum online stores. Accomplishments have included the development and implementation of a new floor plan and merchandising standards, a new management structure resulting in more management accountability, a reduction of invoice-related shortage, the maximization of sales from school groups, an increase in the uniqueness and quality of merchandise assortment with an emphasis on adult upper-end items, a consolidation of merchandise vendors for improved profitability and terms, an increase in Exploratorium custom products and related sales, more interaction with the museum’s members through special events and discounts, and the implementation of in-house online store fulfillment.

Account Executive Position was created to help the company implement a multi-year marketing plan which eliminated some independent sales representatives and replaced that function with a direct manufacturer-store relationship. Territory sales consistently exceeded company trend. Implemented company’s participation in gift shows to replace lost showroom presence. Oversaw the implementation of direct-to-consumer web-based store, including marketing, design, pricing, and order fulfillment. Coordinated company’s product development efforts with major national retail chains. Trained and managed company’s customer service department. In July of 2000 promoted to the position of Sales Manager. Additional responsibilities layered on to Account Executive activities included the management and motivation of six independent sales repping organizations and additional key accounts throughout the United States. Oversaw the planning and execution of all sales promotional materials. Hired and trained sales force for all territories.

Responsible for planning, purchasing and merchandising of the toy and gift retail businesses with annual sales of over $3,000,000. Developed annual sales, gross margin, and stock plans and consistently exceeded financial goals. Developed positive, results-oriented relationships with merchandise vendors. Created and developed exclusive Monterey Bay Aquarium products for retail and wholesale markets which reflected the aquarium’s high standards. Responsible for all aspects of the aquarium’s licensing program of educational children’s products. Directed store staff on the merchandising of over 2000 products. Interfaced with retail software provider on information system needs and accuracy, including the implementation of an on-line open-to-buy system. Worked directly with architects and contractors during major store remodel and expansion.

I was responsible for the Men’s, Young Men’s, Woman’s Accessories, Cosmetics and Shoe areas at the Macy’s Fresno, the #8 volume store in the chain. Managed and developed eight Department Sales Managers representing a total volume of $30,000,000 a year. Planned staffing needs, stock levels and merchandise presentation. Negotiated with merchandise buyers for stock assortments and desired merchandise turns. Implemented and monitored customer service training and development programs.