Directed all aspects of merchandising encompassing service levels, inventory control, category management, local brand growth, and sales support. Worked in field building relationships with prospects and existing customers. Led department of 15 direct reports including director, planners, and product advisors.* Achieved best in class metrics and ranked among Top 5 of all Sysco merchandising departments nationwide by implementing processes and procedures to support service level, inventory management, and sales growth.* Aligned merchandising team with sales staff and customer needs by implementing quarterly field sales shadowing program. Provided product advisors with insight into impact of merchandising decisions on sales growth.* Grew earned income 10% YoY by optimizing product mix.* Generated 1.7% increase in local branded cases over prior year by leading product conversions and partnering with suppliers to launch new items before competitors. Resulted in sales teams introducing ~200 new products in 17 months.* Reduced aged inventory 30% over prior year through aggressive product transfers and high-commission promotions.* Met corporate mandate to restructure merchandising department by reorganizing staff into different roles with well-defined responsibilities and goals.

Led merchandising department operations spanning service level, inventory control, category management, local brand growth, sales support, and customer relationships. Provided oversight and direction to 15 direct reports in planning and product advising.* Attained best in class local branded sales metrics by leveraging product conversions to increase local sales.* Ranked #1 nationally for aged inventory as percentage to total inventory after exceeding all merchandising goals.* Drove 12% YoY increase in earned income by ensuring right product mix was in place.* Optimized product mix with new items by introducing process that involved sales management and select marketing associates in product approval process. 60%-75% of all products reviewed were approved and placed in market.* Elevated merchandising team engagement and effectiveness by implementing weekly training sessions and field sales work that connected staff with customers and sales force.

Promoted through ranks with eight progressively responsible positions in 20 years.Direct all facets of category management, purchasing, cost management, inventory management, and marketing for large division. Support sales efforts via internal pricing deviations, new item requests, purchases, and vendor management. Assist in RFP conversions, pricing, and LMAs throughout State of Florida. Monitor and maximize resources, margin, sales, marketing, daily service levels, and category performance. Lead team of 20 employees including category managers, buyers, and specialists. * Noted for driving dramatic improvements in service levels, spoilage and DIOH.

Directed all merchandising and procurement activities including service level, inventory, DIOH, excess inventory reserve, spoilage, and total category management. Supported purchasing, marketing, and sales efforts through food shows, promotions, pricing, and cost negotiations. Led team of 30 personnel.* Ranked among Top 10 of all company divisions for six consecutive years.

Drove profitable revenue growth across all categories through strong inventory controls, marketing support, and local program negotiations. Led team of 10-15 buyers.

Promoted through ranks to manage pricing, items, and service/inventory levels for COP, Dairy, and Produce categories.