Open to opportunities

Erica Shepherd

@ericashepherd

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Dynamic merchandising professional with a proven track record in sales growth.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that fosters team collaboration, encourages innovation, and offers opportunities for career growth.

I am a dynamic merchandising professional with over 10 years of experience in retail management, seeking a Merchandising Manager role. My career has been marked by a proven track record in leading multi-unit teams, driving sales growth, and enhancing customer engagement through strategic merchandising and visual presentation.

Throughout my career, I have developed expertise in inventory management, promotional strategies, and fostering a guest-focused culture to achieve operational excellence. My roles have included managing daily operations of high-volume retail stores, overseeing large teams, and implementing effective training programs that enhance employee performance and customer satisfaction.

I am passionate about creating innovative visual merchandising displays that not only attract customers but also drive sales. My commitment to operational excellence and team development has consistently resulted in exceeding sales targets and enhancing overall store performance.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Assistant Store Manager

Current

Dry Goods

Sep 2024 - Present (8 months)

Supervised daily operations and trained sales associates on effective sales techniques, merchandising strategies, and product knowledge to enhance customer experience and drive revenue. Analyzed sales trends and customer feedback to optimize product performance and sales.

Sales Strategies Product Knowledge Sales Analysis Customer Feedback Loss Prevention Customer Service

Executive Team Leader, General Merchandise & Food

Target

Aug 2021 - Jan 2024 (2 years 5 months)

Managed daily operations of a $37.92 million retail store, leading over 150 team members and directing three team leaders across multiple departments. Utilized inventory management systems to maintain accuracy and identify development opportunities, contributing to sales growth and profitability.

retail management Team Leadership Inventory Management Operational Excellence Sales Growth Staffing Training Guest Focused Culture

General Merchandise Team Lead II

Target

Aug 2020 - Aug 2021 (1 year)

Achieved sales targets and enhanced guest engagement through effective merchandising, pricing, and promotional strategies. Optimized team efficiency by analyzing data and addressing operational gaps, resulting in improved order fulfillment and guest service.

Sales Targets Merchandise Pricing Data Analysis Efficiency Improvement order fulfillment Guest Service Coaching

Visual Merchandiser Lead

Target

Aug 2018 - Aug 2020 (2 years)

Enhanced store aesthetics by developing and maintaining innovative visual merchandising displays across various departments, contributing to improved guest engagement and sales. Collaborated with store and department teams to address merchandising challenges and ensure optimal product placement.

Store Aesthetics Display Development Sales Inventory Levels Training

Manager of Merchandising

Stein Mart

Aug 2016 - Aug 2018 (2 years)

Created and implemented strategies to consistently exceed store goals and objectives, enhancing overall sales performance. Led and organized major store events, ensuring smooth operations through effective coordination of cross-functional communications and timely execution.

Sales Strategies Event Management Cross Functional Communication Recruitment Scheduling Customer Service Operational Excellence

Assistant Store Manager of Merchandising

Forever 21

Jul 2013 - Aug 2016 (3 years 1 month)

Recruited, hired, and developed visual merchandising associates, ensuring team members and store leaders were trained to uphold visual presentation and brand standards. Analyzed sales reports to make data-driven product placement adjustments, enhancing visual displays to drive sales and maintain consistency.

Recruitment Training Sales Analysis Data Driven Inventory Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Ashford University

Master of Business Administration, Entrepreneurship

Completed a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Entrepreneurship. Focused on developing strategic business acumen and leadership skills relevant to new venture creation and business growth.

Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical University

Bachelor of Science, Apparel, Merchandising and Design; Fashion Merchandising

Earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Apparel, Merchandising and Design, with a focus on Fashion Merchandising. Gained comprehensive knowledge in fashion industry practices, visual merchandising, and product development.