Shawn Cooper

Performed industry and market research prior to investing in and launching franchise in new territory. Managed, developed, and supported a team of 28 employees, ranging from site coordinators to academic tutors.

Supported corporate transformation by creating an enterprise intelligence portal, complete with competitive insights and recommendations on a vast array of distributors. Fulfilled ad-hoc requests from senior leadership on a variety of topics, including researching traditional and new industries, geographical markets, international opportunities, digital marketplaces, new product categories and sol

Provided Steering Committee performance updates on competitors, suppliers, and bellwethers, keeping the team abreast of any trends and changes in the market as well as advising team of our competitors' strategic plays. Published quarterly reports on competitors for our marketing and sales teams, capturing key financial metrics, strategic plays, and targeted end markets/customers.

Grew department sales dollars 23% and gross margin dollars 30.0%. Launched new product category based on trend research, which accounted for over 90% of total sales growth for bottoms class within the same season.

Increased initial markup for subcategory by 4% and improved product execution, which resulted in a 17% gross margin dollar increase over plan and 26% increase over last year. Collaborated with multiple teams to develop seasonal assortments to meet company's overall strategy, while envisioning long-term plans to remain competitive in the market.

Increased sales dollars 19% by partnering with internal teams to improve ordering process. Represented Private Brands during Belk's Annual Denim Seminar to present line and inform store associates on product details.

Increased sales dollars 9% by updating the assortment based on sales trends and market analysis. Managed rebranding and re-ticketing projects for both current merchandise in stores and merchandise that had yet to ship from factories.

Researched fabric and embellishment techniques with global factories for men's and women's athletic apparel. Built a costing tool for internal use and provided cost analysis for all items planned each season to highlight challenges early in the development process.

Activities and societies: Industry Advisory Board Member for the Dept of Consumer, Apparel, and Retail Studies (2014-present)

Studied Consumer, Apparel and Retail Studies. Participated in a study abroad program in Melbourne, Australia at RMIT.

Focused on Textile Engineering with a concentration in Product Design. Also completed a minor in Spanish.