Melissa Brandt Email and Phone Number

We work closely with business owners to develop and administer brand standards, strategies and marketing plans that are aligned with their vision. Our services include planning and executing impactful events that not only bolster your merchandising efforts but also refresh visual presentations to create a compelling branding and consumer experience. In today’s digital landscape, we recognize the importance of marketing across multiple communication channels. Our team excels in the execution and creation of integrated marketing strategies that resonate with your target audience.Notable project examples include fashion styling and strategic planning for leading retail brands, including Kohl's, Walmart, Target, and Cabela's. Through these collaborations, we have demonstrated our capability to drive results and elevate brand presence. Some brands have seen over 20% increase in sales.

Focused daily on the implementation of an ambitious Strategic Plan reporting to a fifteen-member Board of Directors. I led a team of dedicated professionals and affiliates to ensure Downtown Fargo remained welcoming, attractive and safe; plan, oversee, and coordinate events that bring more people Downtown; and provide support for the area.Strong advocate for businesses, residents, and community partners focused on economic growth, vibrancy, and advocacy. Generated funding through events, memberships, contributions, assessments, grants, sponsorships and donations. Collaborate with the Board of Directors and City Leaders in establishing and realizing a unified vision for Downtown and the Partnership. Effectively execute deliverables identified in the current strategic plan and by the Board of Directors. Identify clear evaluation metrics and outcomes to measure the success of the Partnership. Generate and seize unique opportunities to ensure Downtown is thriving; bring new ideas and resources to the table; act upon great ideas. Growth and development focus resulted in valuation Assist in designing initiatives and public policy practices that are inclusive and equitable and serve the interests of the entire community. Helped and led the execution of the Downtown Master Plan.Demonstrate authentic and reflective leadership with confidence and courage.Understand and engage the strengths of the Board of Directors resulting in increased networks, opportunities, and vision for the organization. Downtown Fargo had more than a $158 Million valuation increase during this timeframe.Implemented a public parklet and outdoor art throughout Downtown in partnership with local artists and business owners.

Attract and retain new and existing businesses through active involvement within the community to enhance business relations and extend network reach. Led creative marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and increase space availability. Key revitalization projects I was a part of: Black Building, Roberts Commons, ROCO garage (1st parking garage in Downtown), Kessler Building, RDO Tower, Broadway Square, and the Metro Drug building.

Oversee all aspects of mall management including leasing and tenant relations, marketing, events and financial planning. Strong partnership with city leaders, developers, small and large retailers, boutique and bar owners.

Responsible for all marketing, visual and promotional activity for 200 stores and online throughout the country. Collaboration with planning and merchant teams to identify business opportunities, manage receipts and inventory along with reporting to the CEO and Board with analysis highlighting important trends, key initiatives and brand positioning. Launched eVanity in 2008, Vanity’s website and fulfillment center, including in-house product and model.

Researched, evaluated, and purchased men’s and women’s clothing along with accessory lines for over 20 stores in 7 states. Strategized seasonal and specialty lines, managed the buying cycle, forecasted trends while combining commercial sensibility with creative curation. Utilized OTB to drive sales and profitability while managing margins and markdowns. Attended buying shows every season, maintained strong partnership and communication with vendor representatives.Provided in person training for floor moves, placement direction of the product to provide product knowledge to the Scheels sales leads to improve sales.

Developed, led, and motivated sales and visual teams to create a memorable brand experience, meeting sales expectations, and facilitating product flow, while applying memorable customer service. Recruited, trained, and retained staff and opened numerous stores throughout the years of employment.