NordstromRegional Merchandise Manager, Juniors’ Department
Feb. 2001 - Mar. 2008Dallas/Fort Worth AreaDirected a $25.5 million territory for 17 stores Increased total sales volume by 10% in fiscal year 2007, the #1 increase in the company, through coaching sales techniques, detailed inventory management and constant communication with buyers about specific product needs Maintained a gross margin of 60% - #1 in the company Used Oracle and Retek Data Warehouse systems to track purchase order shipping, control product flow and ensure proper inventory levels by store Collaborated with a corporate financial planner to define a budget and then planned and implemented markdowns within that budget Consistently and successfully negotiated gross margin issues and return authorizations with vendors to facilitate a positive open to buy every month Implemented proactive strategies to manage the fastest inventory turn over in the company Trained and educated department managers and staff by leading, planning and organizing 16 product knowledge seminars throughout Texas, Florida and Georgia annually Implemented corporate strategies to direct 27 managers as a cohesive business unit