Responsible for training and educating all Midwest Handbag departments on visual merchandising, product knowledge and selling skills to drive volume. Worked with department managers on developing schedules, creating floor plans for day to day business, events and promotions and also taught them to utilize report and how it impacts business and product placement. During this time also opened 3 new stores (16 total for region) and conducted week long training with new teams to teach selling, merchandising and the culture of the company,

Developed and built a selling team (13-17 employees) to drive sales. Taught and held team accountable for department visual standards. Developed schedule, coached employees and worked with them side by side to assist them in building the sale, creating a relationship with the customer and delivering exemplary customer service. Handled customer concerns proactively and courteously both within the department and while the Manager In Charge of the store. Reviewed and analyzed business to work with buyers on vendors and product to add or remove from selling mix as well as for optimal product placement. Prepared for and executed bi annual inventories. Had the number 5 increase in the store for 2007, a 12% increase and launched Designer handbags.

Assisted manager in daily tasks to ensure department was visually meeting the expectations. Worked side by side with the team to assist them in selling to customers, building the sale and providing excellent customer service. Handled customer issues proactively and with a sense of urgency. Assisted manager with schedules, inventory preparation and execution and in department and store events and promotions. Began to develop an understanding of the business and how it can be affected by product placement and employee focuses.

Developed and maintained client base by providing excellent customer service, adhering to the customers’ needs, and preparing for customer appointments. Performed daily department maintenance tasks including stock work, re-merchandising, display, price markdowns, merchandise transfers and basic department cleaning. Was a Top Tier seller within the first quarter and also went through the Future Nordstrom leader program.

Developed and executed marketing campaigns for clients including Hillshire Farms, Deans, Hunts, Reddi-Whip and Healthy Choice. This included creating presentations, developing budgets, execution of events/promotions and interaction with media. Additionally, had to track all media hits, budget and campaign recaps. Participated in brainstorming sessions as well as numerous client presentations. Developed excellent presentation skills both in small and large group settings and organizational skills.