Michael Wolter Email and Phone Number

Responsible for inspiring a team to create ownership opportunities for customers on the sales floor. Guiding the talent that provides technical support and training, while working in partnership with the business team. Oversee operations such as inventory and visual merchandising. Actively build my teams - hiring, training, and developing team members in all these disciplines and more.

Spearheaded the successful operations of a high-volume Starbucks store, creating an engaging environment for both customers and team members. Achieved notable success in store performance, resulting in my selection for the Developmental District Manager Program, a highly competitive advancement opportunity aimed at fostering leadership excellence. Oversaw all facets of store operations, from staff training and development to inventory management and visual merchandising. Ensured superior customer service and quality, boosting store reputation and customer loyalty. Successfully recruited by Apple in recognition of demonstrated leadership skills and proven retail management abilities.

Position company for long-term sustainable growth and profitability while overseeing day-to-day operations. Manage all aspects of inventory management, budgeting/financing, staff management, training/development, customer service management, operational efficiency, and logistics. Develop, fine-tune, and implement a plan of action with the management team designed to manage expenses, improve store safety, enhance brand loyalty, and drive revenue. Tour the entire club weekly to maximize customer satisfaction and deliver unmatched service. Develop key action plans to identify areas in need of improvement and implement solutions.Successful at implementing strategic and tactical plans that generate $64M+ in annual sales; grew sales by $2M+ taking it from $62M to $64M+ in the first year of taking over the role.Generated up to $2M+ in annual profit/revenue in memberships dues.Accountable for managing 70+ different categories of merchandise, inventory, and assets valued at $10M+.Mentor, lead, and direct a multifaceted team of six (6) assistant manager and 150+ associates.Manage member/customer expectations and respond to concerns/feedback expediently and thoroughly.Provide full-cycle staff leadership, including sourcing, reviewing applications, hiring, training, and termination.Raised AES scores from 59% to 72% within the first year after inheriting the Club by turning around low morale and empowering staff to exceed performance expectations.Serve as a source of guidance and direction improving communication with associates to keep them informed, engaged, and proficient. Success in developing talent to improve job performance and identifying future leaders ready to move to the next stage in their career.Partner with the Compliance manager to enforce and ensure alignment with health codes, safety processes, and regulatory compliance standards.

Received fast-track promotion culminating in the position of Merchandise/Operations Manager to assist the Club Manager in driving membership, financial performance, and sales growth in the facility. Ensured effective merchandise presentations, proper inventory/stock levels, and accurate/competitive pricing. Assisted the Club Manager in ensuring compliance with Company and legal policies, procedures, and regulations.Oversaw, led, and managed a store that generated $100M+ in annual sales; managed $20M+ in stock/inventory across several categories.Led and directed a team both the operations team consisting of 3 managers and up to 90 associates as well as the merchandising team composed of 3 managers and up to 70 associates.Stepped up and filled the role of Interim Club Manager during the continued absence of the Club Manager. Received praise from the CEO and COO for outstanding leadership and promoted to Club Manager as a result of accomplishments in this role.

Promoted to a position of increased authority and scope. Established direction and generated strategies to increase membership and drive customer loyalty. Managed all Front-End operations, including the registers/self-check-out, Tire and Battery, Optical Center, and Hearing Aid Center. Managed customer expectations across all assigned areas and maintained thehighest levels of customer satisfaction.Outperformed stated goals/objectives and increased membership base by 1.6% - an increase of 500+ members — increased revenue by upgrading regular memberships to plus memberships.Successfully renewed memberships at the rate of 85%+.Led and directed a staff consisting of 1 team leader and 80+ associates; conducted group training onupselling/cross-selling, solutions selling, and customer service management.Conducted role-playing sessions to teach staff the art of customer engagement and closing the sale. Improved staff proficiency in compliance and safety standards through intensive department training.

Promoted to manage membership acquisition. Developed and managed outside relationships with local businesses and utilized the consultative sales approach to educate clients on the benefits of membership, including exclusive offers and programs available to members. Discussed price/revenue advantages and processed new membership applications.

Promoted to lead daily operations across the Fresh Food areas, including meat, produce, bakery, deli, and the café. Oversaw, led, and directed a staff of 3 team leads and 50+ associates. Managed and maintained strict inventory management practices over $9M+ in assets/inventory. Ranked in the top 20 Fresh Club out of 700+ Sam’s Club locations for operational excellence, increased sales, compliance, safety, and sanitation.

Honorable Discharge