Harry M. Russell
Virginia Beach,VA
Summary
Developed skills in fast-paced retail environment, focusing on market analysis and vendor management. Demonstrates expertise in data-driven decision making and relationship building. Seeking to transition into new field where these skills can contribute to achieving business goals. Personable and adaptable professional with strong understanding of market trends and consumer behavior. Possesses key skills in data analysis and vendor relations. Committed to driving sales growth and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Merchant
Dollar Tree
11.2021 - Current
- Managed several categories including Seasonal, Lawn and Garden, and most Recently Hardware and Auto annual sales of $320M.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless execution of merchandise strategies across all channels.
- Managed open-to-buy budgets effectively, ensuring optimal inventory levels at all times.
- Contributed to the development of company-wide merchandising guidelines as a subject matter expert in associate merchant responsibilities.
- Developed expertise in various product categories through continuous research, attending vendor training sessions, and staying abreast of industry news and developments.
- Established strong working relationships with suppliers, negotiating favorable terms and securing exclusive products for the store.
- Implemented process improvements that streamlined operations within the department, resulting in reduced costs and increased efficiency.
- Developed several training programs within "Dollar Tree University" new merchant training program. Lead training sessions with new associates on a monthly basis
Buyer
A.C. Moore
02.2013 - 11.2021
- Responsible for 54M in annual sales in Seasonal Décor, Lighting, and Fine Art Supplies
- Achieved positive sales comps for 6 consecutive years
- Worked closely and built an excellent rapport with suppliers both foreign and domestic to maximize margin dollars
- Negotiated terms and contracts with both domestic and import vendors
- Sourced overseas product through an extensive network of suppliers and factories
- Successfully developed and implemented new lines of merchandise as well as new branding
- Worked closely with design teams to introduce proprietary soft goods merchandise
- Refined initial product allocations and continued to work closely with allocators on a week to week basis analyzing store needs
- Monitored sales and instituted mark down strategies for low velocity items
- Instituted marketing strategies within the category augmenting Sales and Profit
- Merchandised product lines in a Plan-O-Gram format that were implemented in the throughout all the retail locations
District Manager
A.C. Moore Arts and Crafts
01.2005 - 02.2013
- Supervised 18 locations, enforcing high-quality standards of operation.
- Ensured compliance with company policies and procedures as well as federal/state regulations by conducting regular audits of operational practices at each location within the district.
- Boosted employee morale by creating a positive work environment that encouraged teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth opportunities.
- Oversaw successful store openings, coordinating logistics, staffing, training, and promotional efforts to ensure smooth transitions for new locations.
- Achieved consistent revenue growth by identifying new business opportunities and expanding existing client base within the district.
District Manager
The Rag Shop
01.1996 - 01.2005
District Manager / General Manager
Pep Boys
01.1987 - 01.1996
Education
Penn State University
Abington, PA06.1987
Skills
- Negotiating
- Purchasing
- Research
- Product Sourcing
- People Skills
- Highly Adaptable
- Resourcefulness
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Microsoft Office
- Outlook
- SAP - Business Objects
- Oracle - Micro Strategy / RMS
- Bamboo Rose Inventory Management
- Workflow Modules
- IBM AS400
Timeline
Associate Merchant
Dollar Tree
11.2021 - Current
Buyer
A.C. Moore
02.2013 - 11.2021
District Manager
A.C. Moore Arts and Crafts
01.2005 - 02.2013
District Manager
The Rag Shop
01.1996 - 01.2005
District Manager / General Manager
Pep Boys
01.1987 - 01.1996
Penn State University
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