Ali Haider Merchant
Deer Park,NY
Summary
Accomplished Project Manager at Visual Citi INC, adept in Print Production Management and Team Leadership. Elevated client satisfaction by pioneering innovative design concepts and streamlining production processes. Excelled in strategic planning, ensuring projects exceeded expectations with meticulous quality control and effective resource allocation. Proven track record in enhancing productivity and fostering long-term client relationships.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Project Manager
Visual Citi INC
03.2013 - 03.2015
- Successfully managed end-to-end project delivery, from initial requirement gathering to final installation, ensuring projects met client specifications and were completed on time.
- Handled key accounts such as Samsonite, La Senza, Next Electronics, Metro Shoes, Puma, Reebok, and Kenneth Cole, consistently delivering high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
- Developed accurate execution plans, coordinated material procurement, and oversaw project timelines to ensure successful launches.
- Contributed to the creation of innovative design concepts for clients, particularly for new product launches or campaigns, enhancing brand visibility and impact.
- Negotiated and managed third-party contracts related to project deliverables.
- Committed to continuous learning and professional growth, quickly advancing from a beginner to independently managing complex projects.
Business Development Manager
Visual Citi Pvt Ltd
03.2015 - 03.2016
- Demonstrated strong performance leading to a promotion to Business Development Manager. Successfully acquired high-profile clients, including Reliance Brands, Arvind Brands, and Next Electronics.
- Successfully managed and trained a team of three trainees, guiding them to achieve business objectives and secure new clients for the company.
- Effectively managed and nurtured relationships with multiple key accounts, including KidZania, Burgs, and Papa John's, JCB Salon Max Fashion ensuring client satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
- Actively participated in meetings for new projects, provided accurate cost estimates for the project and accurately gathered project requirements and maintained clear communication with clients and internal teams, ensuring that expectations were met throughout the project lifecycle.
- Generated new business with marketing initiatives and strategic plans.
- Reached out to potential customers via telephone, email, and in-person inquiries.
- Proven ability to close deals with major brands and negotiate favorable terms, contributing to the company’s revenue growth.
Production Manager
Visual Citi INC
03.2016 - 05.2017
- Successfully oversaw operations in a newly opened manufacturing plant in Mexico, ensuring smooth production across multiple departments and collaborating with other managers for efficient project flow.
- Managed and trained a team of trainees, equipping them with the necessary skills to oversee plant operations independently.
- Increased overall productivity by identifying bottlenecks in the production process and proposing effective solutions.
- Managed continuous improvement initiatives to drive gains in quality, flow, and output.
- Worked closely with different departments within the plant to maintain continuity in production and ensure that all project goals were met efficiently.
Project Manager
Visual Citi INC
07.2017 - 12.2021
- Successfully trained a team and handed over operations, Transitioned from overseeing a manufacturing plant to managing projects at the company’s head office in New York, showcasing adaptability and expertise in diverse environments.
- Worked closely with design teams to ensure client requirements were met, consistently delivering projects that aligned with client expectations.
- Successfully managed site surveys and installations, ensuring seamless project execution from inception to completion.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with key clients such as Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, L'Occitane, Vera Bradley, Express and others, contributing to the company’s growing client base.
- Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful project completion.
- Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
Print Production Manager
Visual Citi INC
01.2021 - Current
- Effectively manage four key sections within the print production department, including Printing, Graphic Cutting, Lamination, and Gluing, ensuring all projects are completed on schedule.
- Lead a team of 13 members, efficiently planning and allocating resources to meet project deadlines.
- Oversee inventory to ensure that all necessary materials are in stock, enabling smooth and uninterrupted production processes.
- Develop and implement daily task plans, managing start and end times for all department members to maintain productivity and efficiency.
- Skilled in operating advanced printing and cutting machinery, including Vutek Large Format Printer, HP Eco Solvent Printer, SwissQ Flatbed Printer, Epson Roll-to-Roll Printer, Summa (Vinyl Cutting Machine), Zund (Graphic Cutter), and Kern (Laser Cutting Machine).
- Improved turnaround times by streamlining communication channels within the print production team.
- Provided technical guidance on paper selection, finishing options, binding methods, ink types and other critical aspects related to successful completion of each job order.
- Evaluated employee performance and provided feedback and training as needed.
- Created and oversaw production schedules and adjusted as needed to meet deadlines.
- Oversaw routine maintenance programs and scheduled service to keep equipment functioning at peak levels.
Education
MBA - Marketing
ITM Business School
Khargar, Mumbai 04.2014
Bachelor of Commerce - Accounting And Marketing
Pillais College of Mahatma Eduction
Panvel, Mumbai03.2013
Skills
- Print Production Management
- Team Leadership & Resource Allocation
- Daily Task Planning & Workflow Optimization
- Inventory Management
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Deadline Management
- Job Planning
- Quality Control
- Production Scheduling
- Problem-Solving
- Multitasking
- Critical Thinking
Hobbies
- Cricket: Actively participate in cricket with a local group and community center; recently awarded "Best Batsman of the Tournament" in a recent tournament.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking and long drives, which contribute to a balanced and active lifestyle.
Timeline
Print Production Manager
Visual Citi INC
01.2021 - Current
Project Manager
Visual Citi INC
07.2017 - 12.2021
Production Manager
Visual Citi INC
03.2016 - 05.2017
Business Development Manager
Visual Citi Pvt Ltd
03.2015 - 03.2016
Project Manager
Visual Citi INC
03.2013 - 03.2015
MBA - Marketing
ITM Business School
Bachelor of Commerce - Accounting And Marketing
Pillais College of Mahatma Eduction
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