Stuart Luscombe Email & Phone Number

Epping, Vic, Au

Melbourne , Vic, Au

Retail Expansion and Transformation Specialists.SL Projects assist small and medium size businesses that don’t have Project Management resources navigate through day to day operational issues and transformation strategies for the future. Be it related to future needs or developing operational efficiencies in the now, we will provide practical advice and assistance to give you the confidence to manage the challenges you come across in your business. My expertise has been developed over 25 years working in Senior Retail Operations and Project Management roles with some of Australia’s most recognisable companies including Coles, Dan Murphys, Mitre 10, PETstock and United Petroleum.Available for the following services on contract basis:

Currently seeking new opportunities within retail operations, retail design and renewal, transformation fit outs, renovations or relocation projects on a full time or contract basis.My expertise includes retail merchandise project design, management, development & implementation. I enjoy generating new ideas and devising feasible solutions to broadly relevant problems.My colleagues would describe me as a strategic problem solver that focuses on the root cause of situations. I envision smart solutions whilst delivering exceptional results. Enthusiastic, driven and honest in collaboration, I drive and instill confidence and motivation within teams, especially during challenging times of change.With an impeccable track record of well-honed communication skills, I cultivate relationships with stakeholders and motivate colleagues to implement complex solutions to deliver objectives effectively.I am driven by success and a never-ending desire for Continuous Improvement with strengths lying in organisational and strategic planning, creating and maintaining winning cultures, driving efficiency, leading organisational change and leading teams to deliver exceptional results.Please contact me at sluscombe@outlook.com or 0438606406 to find out how I can add value to your organisation.Key Competencies:Project Management - Retail, Logistics and EventsRenewal and TransformationConstruction and Fit OutRisk ManagementLeadershipVendor ManagementVolunteer ManagementProcess ImprovementWarehouse OptimizationLogisticsStore Design & ImplementationStrategy to ExecutionComplianceChange ManagementRetail OperationsAnalytical Problem SolvingCoachingMentoringCreativityInnovationAdaptabilityFlexibilityProject DeliveryProject Governance Continuous ImprovementVisual MerchandisingPlanogram ImplementationProcurementLoss prevention Sustainability

Accountabilities:• Develop project documentation, project schedules, planners, database and budgets using spreadsheets and MS Project. • Create and maintain pre and post project documentation such as schedules, staging plans, CAPEX spreadsheets, and scope documentation to ensure plans are kept up to date and invoicing is accurate.• Lead a team of 8 Project Managers and Project coordinators focusing on collaboration and high-quality output.• Monitor asset inventory levels within internal and external storage facilities to ensure adequate provision for current and upcoming projects.• Collaborate with key suppliers and international brands to ensure orders for fixtures, fittings and other related assets are delivered in line with key project dates.• Manage changes that impact the installation of equipment and fixturing and communicate changes to internal and external stakeholders.• Ensure all vendors and contractors have live documentation, SWMs and SLAs.• Issued and analysed tenders and cost estimates for project works, shop fitting, building and other trades.Results:• Manage the Coles account to consolidate, warehouse and transport shop fittings and fixtures Australia wide. Directly responsible for signing 15 x million-dollar tender contracts for Coles Business Initiatives.• Prioritised targets to meet agreed timelines and managed multiple work-streams concurrently. Delivered every deadline in this role to date.• Improved the speed and execution of strategy rollout focusing on Agile Project Management methodologies and keeping costs low and keeping processes simple. Delivered an increase in storage rates within first month in this role.

PROJECT PLANNINGDeliver new stores into the network using LEAN and Agile project and program management techniques. Negotiate lease agreements and liaise with local councils and food safety regulators. LEADERSHIPManaged 3 direct reports and over 100 indirect reports.PROJECT IMPLEMENTATIONDesign and influence the management of space in store with Space Planning team. Delivered 2 new stores and 13 refurbishments on time, on budget to required specifications. Prioritised targets to meet agreed timelines and managed multiple work-streams concurrently. Led key projects and initiatives, including cost control and agreed deadlines.PROCESS OPTIMIZATIONImplemented the Pie Face sales strategy across Victoria which increased NET sales by 32%.STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENTManage internal and external stakeholders and key customer relationships.INTEGRATIONDrove the store opening and refurbishment strategy. Oversaw the roll out of the Pie Face brand into United convenience stores through refurbishment program. PROJECT GOVERNANCEImproved the speed and execution of strategy roll out focusing on Agile Project Management methodologies and keeping costs low and keeping processes simpleVISUAL MERCHANDISINGEnsure that merchandise presentation, layouts and appearance accurately reflect business strategy in store.RISK MANAGEMENTDeveloped and coached franchisees on the root cause of business decisions. Analyzed customer data to apply strategies and understand consumer trends. Used If this then that (IFTTT) and What if calculations to calculate risk strategies resulting in a 63% decrease in recurring problems during transformations.CULTURAL CHANGECoached franchisees to embrace new QSR strategy to implement Food Service into their existing businesses. Stores that embraced the strategy saw sales uplifts of 45% post implementation.SAFETYPromote and lead a safety culture throughout the company resulting in no LTIS.

CULTURAL CHANGEInfluenced leaders across 4 states, breaking down cultural barriers, inspiring new paradigms and leading Moreton Hire to set out on a path that will enable vibrant business success. TRANSFORMATIONLed transformation of the warehouse and operational team structures that had been floundering under poor morale and neglected talent development resulting in a 53% reduction in staff turnover.FIELD PROJECT AND WAREHOUSE OPERATIONSManaged a team of 6 Project Managers, 12 Site Supervisors, 200 Warehouse and field operatives and contractors. Improved operational efficiencies by focusing on delivery on time and on budget. Consistently delivered timelines and expectations utilising highly developed negotiation skills.PROBLEM SOLVINGAnalysed key business problems, developed pragmatic solutions, and implemented roadmaps. Achieved an increase on variation charging onsite of 62%.STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENTCoordinated with key stakeholders to effectively manage and implement all strategic operational initiatives within operations and supply chain. Achieved an improvement on the company’s efficiency rating which led to increased profit margins.SITE DELIVERYDesigned and installed major events and managed construction of temporary structures, following BCA, regulations and town planning and contractor regulations.SAFETYPromoted and led a safety culture throughout the company resulting in no LTIS.RISK MANAGEMENTDeveloped a new loss prevention and risk management format to reduce profitability leakage.STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENTSpearheaded review and site meetings with subcontractors aligning them to budget, quality, and timelines. This program included managing defect inspection meetings of all works and ensuring timely (immediate) resolution.PROJECT PLANNING & REPORTINGProduced and presented due diligence reports and project brief to a variety of audiences and facilitated discussions with a range of stakeholders within the organisation and externally.

12 month contract focusing on continuous improvement and changing broken organisational cultures within major events and activations.IMPACT SNAPSHOT• Planned and executed exhibitions, corporate events, trade shows, conferences, carnivals, seasonal events, custom stands and retail pop ups. • Developed mutually beneficial relationships with key event spaces in Melbourne and Sydney.• Championed a shift in strategy to focus on core business, identified opportunity and overcame significant resistance to roll out new products and increase sales through on-site variations.ACCOUNTABILITY AND KEY TASKS- Project Planning (Retail and Events) - Project Delivery- Procurement- Managing internal and external stakeholders to align to a common goal- Logistics management- Ensure all projects are completed to the highest quality, on time and within budget.- Building and maintaining relationships with clients and contractors.- Coordinating external contractors both onsite and remotely.- End to end management of project job costs from estimates through to invoice.- Manage own schedule effectively.My portfolio included:- Australian Open Tennis- Australian NINJA Warrior- Airshow- Caravan and Camping expo- Boat Show- Dog Lovers Show- Moto Ex- Fine Foods- Nespresso

Responsible for the day to day operation of the Melbourne DC. Ensuring the warehouse operated at the highest level of efficiency, whilst maintaining a customer-centric focus.Key responsibilities included:Oversee daily warehouse operations, while managing inventory movement.Managing workflow between manufacturing and the warehousesManage all transport/freight requirements including company truck/van.Supervising a team including; rostering, workflow allocation & training of staffAssist with the daily requirements of receiving, picking, packing and dispatch of goodsEnsure work standards including OH&S and quality are adhered to.Direct receiving of containers;Organise and direct pick, pack and dispatch;Organise stock checks, bin replenishments & bin location management.Ensure and maintain a high accuracy level and provide a high level of service.Keep the warehouse clean, well maintained & organized at all times.Monitor staffing levels in accordance to daily operational requirementsMaintain a safe work environment for all staff and site visitorsManage all staff members ensuring all warehouse procedures are being followedMonitoring and maintaining all warehouse equipment

Supported the renewal function in the role out of new stores on a contract (as required basis)Focused on peak trade period implementation and effective store operations.

Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Au

MULTI SITE RETAIL OPERATIONSProvided leadership to 32 sites, ensuring corporate culture was maintained. FINANCIAL ACUMENDrove sales and profitability performance improvements at store level utilizing store data, metrics and store layout and performance drivers. Improved fuel sales across 2 regions by 12%, Convenience sales by 32% and QSR sales by 15% (Like for Like data).End to end P&L accountability resulted in an improvement on the region’s sales budget of 7% through constant management of retail strategies, strong financial analysis, sales forecasting, and reporting. CUSTOMER EXPERIENCECoached and mentored franchisees and managers to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Analyzed customer data to apply strategies and understand consumer trends resulting in a 7% sales increase across the 32-store region.BUSINESS PLANNINGContinually developed and reviewed business plans and budgets with franchisees and monitored KPIs and identified improvement opportunities focusing on the local market demographics.VISUAL MERCHANDISINGEnsured that merchandise presentation, layouts and appearance accurately reflected business strategy.CULTURAL CHANGEDeveloped and coached Members to drive better commercial results by focusing on results and not reacting to daily pressures. Increased member retention rate over 2 regions by 4%.COMPLIANCE Ensured compliance to operational and marketing standards and kept impeccable records for each site. Identified opportunities for improvement by driving efficient and effective store operations, achieved an average audit score of 88% which impacted positively on retailer’s profitability.LOCAL AREA MARKETINGSpearheaded a local area marketing strategy to assist stores with marketing and promotional campaign execution to ensure that each store showcased being the Best Store in Town.REFITSDrove the store refurbishment strategy for the Pie Face brand and provided operational support for new store openings, and refurbishments.

Heatherton, Victoria, Au

-Delivered the store opening and renewal strategy for the Franchise Network. Established and maintained high volume project rollout pipelines and implementation schedules. -Developed exceptional network and product knowledge of the hardware and tool sector. Developed and implemented the Tool Centre concept into new and existing sites.-Contributed to ongoing review and implementation of best practice operating procedures including core range roll out, visual merchandising and local area marketing programs, customer value proposition and trade centre roll out. Assisted to develop E-Learning courses and what good looks like guides for each program.-Ensured store operations, layouts, and appearance accurately reflected Marketing/ Merchandising strategy to a sustainably consistent standard across all locations to holistically achieve the best outcomes for stores, teams, and customers.-Identified and mitigated project risks by engaging and communicating regulalry with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project critical paths and agreed programmes were achieved.-Developed and managed a continuous improvement program which focused on customer service, best practice merchandising, loss prevention strategies and achievement of financial budgets.-Volunteered on committee of management and led the delivery of yearly trade show.-Delivered 23 large store refurbishments, 2 Greenfield sites, 4 Brownfield sites, 30 small store fitouts, 4 store closures and business initiatives and program roll outs including automatic inventory, core range, customer flow and customer value statement.-Planned, executed, and drove the Sapphire Continuous Improvement program which focused on implementing learnings from each new store into the next project and eliminating Lean waste in a timely manner-Spearheaded transformation of the operational team structures and developed relationships between internal and external stakeholders that ultimately delivered a 17% increase in NET sales

Heatherton, Victoria, Au

Newly created role created to integrate the Home Timber and Hardware brand to the Mitre 10 group. IMPACT SNAPSHOTInfluenced leaders across 7 states, to deliver a transformation program impacting 100+ stores. Led transformation of the operational team structures and developed relationships between internal and external stakeholders that ultimately delivered a 17% increase in NET sales and 25% increase in customer visitation. Store Design and Retail Operations focusing on the Customer Value Proposition. Undertaking a holistic approach to store transformations from format development, customer centric layouts, customer experience, team, operational improvement, pos, marketing, digital and stakeholder management. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES- Managed the compliance of construction sites, ensuring sites are kept safe, free of hazards and compliant to safety standards.- Delivered projects to agreed programmes, budgets and in line with business standards, expectations and strategies.- Played an integral part of reducing the capital per square metre for build and fit-out of new stores, refurbishments, closures, conversions and business initiatives.- Responsible for end-to-end project management, identified and mitigated project risks, engaged with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project critical paths and agreed programmes were achieved.- Improved the speed and execution of onsite works, fitout, construction works through to handover of store to Store Operations, in line with forecasted opening dates.- Managed project costs and scope in line with agreed deliverables and business strategies.- Managed and engaged various external consultants and contractors for project development works.

Heatherton, Victoria, Au

- Member of the IHG Expo leadership committee, responsible for transport, logistics, design and implementation.- Project manage setup and operation of the 2016 - 2018 Trade Show Expos.- Management of internal & external stakeholders- Partnering with external supplier base in order to develop prototypes & trial equipment- Working in with broader project team to ensure alignment with the critical milestone dates- Align teams to corporate strategy and leverage learnings and best practice strategies across multiple sites. - Design store layouts as per Customer Flow Methodology and local demographic information. - Driving continuous improvement program between multiple internal departments and external business partners. - Working with external parties for continuous innovation in POS, marketing, format development, fixtures, fittings, signage and information technology. - Preparation of budget and contract negotiation for each project.- Preparation and management of critical path documents. - Build and maintain relationships with member base.- Delivery of our newest concept store of the future in Mona Vale NSW- Development and maintenance of Project Tools and Constant Improvement Programs

Heatherton, Victoria, Au

• Supervised the store operations of 19 trade/ hardware stores. Rolled out the Sapphire program including design, development, and implementation of the Safety centre in Mona Vale, NSW.• Provided support, coaching and direction to franchisees, in order to achieve business objectives.• Implemented, built engagement, and drove local marketing and advertising strategies in alignment with brand strategies to provide solutions in aid of promoting retailer business and analysed business trends to identify opportunities to drive results. Region consistently met or exceeded KPIs as determined by the company.• Developed and utilised benchmarking tools/KPIs to analyse and improve store performance. Resulted in upskilling store managers to increase customer experience and sales metrics.• Led transformation of the operational team structures and developed relationships between internal and external stakeholders that ultimately delivered a 17% increase in NET sales and 25% increase in customer visitation.• Planned, executed, and drove the Sapphire continuous improvement program which focused on implementing learnings from each new store into the next project.• Promoted and led a safety culture throughout the region resulting in no lost time injuries nor serious incidents.• Analyse key business problems and develop pragmatic solutions. Analyse business trends to identify opportunities and/or gaps to drive results.• Coached and developed direct reports. Created a culture of teamwork that was reinforced by creating a common set of standards that improved consistency and accountability.• Manage cross-functional alignment of the strategy and planning processes with other teams including. Marketing, Merchandise, Operations and Store Formats.

Heatherton, Victoria, Au

- Partnering with external supplier base in order to develop prototypes & trial equipment- Working in with broader project team to ensure alignment with the critical milestone dates- Align teams to corporate strategy and leverage learnings and best practice strategies across multiple sites. - Driving continuous improvement program between multiple internal departments and external business partners. - Working with external parties for continuous innovation in POS, marketing, format development, fixtures, fittings, signage and information technology. - Preparation and management of critical path documents. - Member of the IHG Expo leadership committee, responsible for transport, logistics,design and implementation.- Project manage setup and operation of the 2018 Trade Show Expo.- Build and maintain relationships with member base.- Delivery of our newest concept store of the future in Mona Vale NSW- Development and maintenance of Project Tools and Constant Improvement Programs- Financial project and program reporting completed and communicated effectively to facilitate good governance and decision making across the business- Establish strategies, agree planning, direction and priorities for the wider development and property teams- Deliver customer focused outcomes to energise stores and drive value, ensuring store planning team objectives are aligned with business strategy and objectivesTrack and communicate program risks to facilitate decisions across capital delivery and store planning- Lead store planning team to focus on business priorities and ensure timely and accurate delivery by managing resources to meet business needs- Engaging, managing and leading external consultants to deliver expertise into the business that compliments the team and drives commercial and cost-effective outcomes- Build high performance relationships based on trust with direct reports, peers, colleagues, and vendors through exceptional leadership capabilty

Au

Accountabilities:• Project Management and setup of new stores.• Development and implementation of new concepts. Coordinated with key stakeholders to effectively manage and implement all strategic operational initiatives within operations and supply chain including floor plan design, suppliers, category teams, contractors, and executives.Results:• Rolled out new concepts in 22 stores including pet treats, veterinary, grooming, reptile and aquarium and customer value statement on time on budget and above quality standard. These categories averaged an uplift in sales of 12% wherever implemented.• Improved operational efficiencies by focusing on delivery on time and on budget. Consistently delivered timelines and expectations utilising highly developed negotiation skills.• Produced and presented due diligence reports and project brief to a variety of audiences and facilitated discussions with a range of stakeholders within the organisation and externally.  Coordinated with key stakeholders to effectively manage and implement all strategic operational initiatives within operations and supply chain. Achieved an improvement on the company’s efficiency rating which led to increased profit margins. Improved operational efficiencies by focusing on local demographics to become the Best Store in Town.

Au

RESPONSIBILITIESI was responsible for overseeing day to day operation of the South Morang/ Epping stores, hiring, training, mentoring and evaluating management, owners and team members using achieve and develop plans, developing and maintaining a World Class customer service culture , leading a large scale metropolitan team, handling employee relations and HR issues, complete monthly trading reports, liaise with national head office team members, liaise with business partners, develop and maintaining stock control metrics across the network, reviewing and actioning shrinkage reports, preparing budgets and identifying opportunities in profit/loss management, preparing in store promotions and marketing activities with the Supply Team and Business partners, meeting deadlines, controlling trade debtors and ensuring that the right stock was available at the right time.ACHIEVEMENTS* 2 of my staff members went on to become staff member of the month and ultimately staff member of the year for the entire franchise group of 80 stores.* My store was ranked first of our 80 stores in all major business KPIs for 18 months running. These include average spend, basket size, stock management, customer retention and add on selling goals.* During my time at PETstock I was also a member of numerous committees including the Metro Melbourne Marketing Committee and the National Marketing Committee, the PETstock Foundation Committee and the Franchise Committee.* I have also set up, prepared, relocated and helped plan Grand Opening promotions for 19 other PETstock stores, including interstate.* I have organized and ran participation at events such as the Pet/ Animal Expo, Equitana, Whittlesea Show, Royal Melbourne Show, Bark in the Park, Geelong Cup and numerous other marketing events.

Au

I was a part of the founding board for the PETstock foundation (now called PETstock Assist). I organised and helped manage 2 x Charity Gala balls, numerous auctions and retail activities incompassing fundraising initiatives. Throughout my time on this board we raised over 3 million dollars and made some long time sponsorship arrangements with Assistance Dogs Australia, Wildlife Victoria and many others

Melbourne, Vic, Au

I was promoted to store manager at 3 different locations after beginning my employment as a casual grocery filler in 1998. Job Role• Direct all business & operational functions, track sales to budget, direct OHS & food safety guidelines as well as monitor employee performance.• Assist area manager with activities including interviewing management candidates, filling in for other store managers & overseeing store openings statewide. • I opened 7 new Bilo stores as the State Grocery Coordinator and worked alongside the project team to fit out and fill these departments.• Stock presentation, Stock control & inventory ordering, supervision of as many as 250 employees. Meet specific KPI’s & sales targets to achieve budget, set budgets & meeting deadlines, ensure efficient & effective day to day operation & training staff on a daily basis. Manage remuneration & succession planning on a weekly basis.• Change Management - Coles took over the Bilo chain in Victoria. Needed to appease concerns with staff to modify their mindset of a ‘takeover’ to positively spinning the benefits both them & the business. This was the only store in the area that did not lose any staff due to the Coles takeover.Major Achievements• Led store to achieve 240% of sales budget for year ended 30/6/2004 - Diamond Creek location• Led store to a staff turnover figure of 1% for year ended 30/6/2004• Shrinkage result of .89% of sales for year ended 30/6/2004• Led a store from store opening & on to 2 area management changes• Trained & developed staff (7 who were promoted to management positions in other stores)• Led store to be 1st BI-LO Supermarket (Vic) to reach $1M net operating profit (2004)OTHER POSITIONS HELDBI-LO - Duty Manager, Assistant Manager, State Grocery Champion & Store Refit Champion

Melbourne, Vic, Au

Previous store is > 1300 days lost time Injury free. Coles Craigieburn has not had a lost time injury since its inception & Coles Kilmore is >300 days LTI free.• I recently received feedback from Coles CEO John Durkan that the Craigieburn Superstore had put in place and maintained the best standards that he had seen over a period of time in his time at Coles• Managed full stock fit out of Craigieburn Superstore to deadline and budget.

Melbourne, Vic, Au

IMPACT SNAPSHOTDeveloped reputation as a coach and developer of top talent with many team members promoted to higher leadership. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIESLead team of 160+ employees & Manage daily operation of the storeManaged opening the newest Craigieburn Superstore (inception - opening). Responsible for overseeing fit out and management of shop fitters in the grocery, General Merchandise and Dairy departments. Responsible for ordering and laying out stock onto fixtures to planograms and managing an external visual merchandise team to achieve this.Managed a variety of stakeholders including suppliers, business partners, internal setup teams and store teams.Training, mentoring, evaluating & developing team members performance & developmentDrive store standards, exceeding sales & shrinkage targets, driving total loss actions & monitoring & reviewing shrinkage reportsDeliver World Class Customer Service (support center team members & business partners)Ensuring daily safety & legal compliance of all team members, business partners & customers• Inventory management & visual merchandising• Manage budgets & profit/loss management• Prepare in store promotions & marketing activities, meeting deadlines • In my champion role I am responsible for training other store managers to achieve best practice results for their availability metrics including rostering, fill schedules, easy ordering processes and promotional tie up. This role is a multi site role.Major AchievementsRanked No 3 in our Victorian Zone (120 stores) for the last 3 months in Easy ordering metrics Previous store was trading at 6% up on last year & 2% ahead of budget (up by 2% since I started). Coles Kilmore (ad hoc) is currently tracking at 5% above budget & 7% year growth. Store waste results are down by 4% (Period 1 & 2). Team members deliver exceptional customer service in high theft areas.

Associate’S Degree, Business

Diploma, Project Management

Associate’S Degree, Mini Mba

Diploma, Event Management

Certificate Refresh, Information Technology Project Management

Six Sigma, Lean - Black Belt

Diploma, Retail Management

Certificate, Retailing And Retail Operations 2, 3, 4

Associate’S Degree, Visual Merchandising

Certificate Iv, Change Management

Certificates, Progressive Learning

Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean - Six Sigma Black Belt

High School, Business Commerce Major