Adam Ponce
Bloomfield,NJ
Summary
Accomplished Luxury Retail Manager with expertise in launching new stores, enhancing visual standards, and optimizing performance through effective team development. Build and lead high-performing teams while ensuring brand integrity and superior client experiences. Strong background in sales leadership and KPI execution within premium fashion.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Visual Manager
A Bathing Ape (BAPE)
East Rutherford, NJ
12.2024 - 01.2026
- Maintained full ownership of visual merchandising, ensuring alignment with global brand standards and high-volume product drops
- Drove team performance beyond sales goals and key KPIs through daily floor leadership and coaching
- Individually generated approximately $275,000 in sales through elevated client engagement and styling-driven selling
- Played a key leadership role in achieving over $1.3 million in total store sales during tenure
- Developed associates through structured one-on-one and group coaching sessions focused on: Advanced selling tactics, Styling techniques aligned with brand identity and Building authentic customer relationships
- Built and led a self-sufficient sales team through delegation, accountability, and consistent performance feedback
- Participated in store opening from day zero, supporting pre-opening preparation, visual execution, and team readiness prior to launch
Disney College Program - Ops Cast Member
Disney
Orlando, Florida
03.2024 - 11.2024
- Collaborated cross-functionally to enhance guest experiences and align with brand expectations
- Delivered high-volume, guest-facing service while maintaining brand, presentation, and operational standards
- Provided solution-oriented guest service during peak traffic periods, ensuring guest satisfaction
Assistant Store Manager
2nd Street USA
Montclair, NJ
02.2023 - 02.2024
- Supported store opening from day zero, including operational setup, associate onboarding, and training execution
- Led and supervised teams of up to 15 associates, ensuring independent daily operations and floor leadership
- Conducted one-on-one and group coaching sessions focused on: Luxury brand knowledge and product education, Authentication of luxury handbags, apparel, and accessories and Buy-in negotiation strategies and customer trust building
- Authenticated luxury goods across brands including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Chrome Hearts, and other high-value designers
- Reinforced disciplined buying practices, inventory accuracy, and consistent client experience standards
Sales Associate/Buyer
The Loop
Jersey City, NJ
01.2022 - 02.2023
- Led purchasing and authentication processes for high-demand streetwear and sneaker brands including Supreme, Off-White, BAPE, Jordan, Yeezy, Stüssy, MM6, and other premium labels
- Maintained professional composure and decision-making in high-volume, high-pressure retail environments while protecting brand standards
- Built authentic client relationships through product knowledge, trust, and consistent engagement, driving repeat business
- Executed visual merchandising standards by organizing racks and displays to enhance store flow, product storytelling, and sell-through
- Assessed client needs and applied strategic, suggestive selling techniques to increase average transaction value and overall sales performance
Fabric Warehouse Operations Associate
Zelouf International
Clifton, NJ
06.2021 - 12.2021
- Prepared and examined textiles for cutting and production readiness, achieving quality and consistency standards
- Handled a wide range of fabrics, enhancing knowledge of textile construction, weight, and composition for improved product selection
- Established foundation in fabric handling and product awareness, supporting growth initiatives within the fashion industry
Education
High School Diploma -
Bloomfield High School
Bloomfield, NJBusiness Management -
Essex County College
Newark, NJSkills
- Store openings & visual ownership
- Team development & coaching
- Sales leadership & KPI management
- Client experience excellence & clienteling
- Luxury product knowledge & authentication
- Inventory control & buying strategy
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
Timeline
Visual Manager
A Bathing Ape (BAPE)
12.2024 - 01.2026
Disney College Program - Ops Cast Member
Disney
03.2024 - 11.2024
Assistant Store Manager
2nd Street USA
02.2023 - 02.2024
Sales Associate/Buyer
The Loop
01.2022 - 02.2023
Fabric Warehouse Operations Associate
Zelouf International
06.2021 - 12.2021
High School Diploma -
Bloomfield High School
Business Management -
Essex County College