Andrae Kates
Frisco,USA
Summary
Experienced and results-driven leader with a proven track record of driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, maintaining and growing vendor relationships, and delivering exceptional customer service. Skilled in team building, sales management, and inventory control, with a strong focus on maximizing team performance and enhancing the overall buying experience. Dedicated to fostering a positive work environment, developing talent, and achieving business objectives.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Package Handler
FedEx
Frisco, TX
06.2025 - Current
- Loading and unloading packages using appropriate safety protocols and equipment.
- Sorted packages efficiently to ensure timely distribution and delivery.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of work area to enhance productivity.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve daily shipping goals consistently.
- Improved package handling efficiency by using proper sorting, stacking, and organizing techniques.
Merchandising Coordinator
Pilot Company
Knoxville, TN
01.2021 - 12.2025
- Oversee, and manage all retail merchandising and retail marketing for Pilot and Flying J stores in territory.
- Lead and manage all store resets, floor plan changes, etc.
- Act as a liaison between our corporate office, store, and vendors.
- Coordinate all promotional activities to ensure alignment with company objectives and brand standards.
- Analyze sales data and market trends to identify opportunities for product assortment optimization and inventory management.
- Evaluate Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and purchasing teams.
- Execute promotions, product launches, and seasonal campaigns.
General Manager
Pilot Company
Fort Worth, TX
03.2019 - 01.2021
- Mentored managers, building leadership capabilities and strengthening team dynamics within the organization.
- Responsible for hiring, training, and scheduling employees within allotted monthly budget.
- Collaborate with department leaders on staffing and budgeting in their respective areas.
- Responsible for placing weekly orders and conducting audits on merchandise, cash handling, cigarettes, and lottery.
- Drive sales and execute current marketing and merchandising plan.
- P&L Accountability and monthly KPI targets.
Store Manager
Mattress Firm
Plano, TX
11.2012 - 12.2019
- Drive individual and store team's performance sales through the achievement of KPI's, to reach targeted goals.
- Manage, train, and coach store employees in sales, product knowledge, qualifying questions, overcoming objections, and operational activities.
- Providing constructive feedback, annual performance reviews and individual development plans.
- Provide technical, and product knowledge information to associates and customers, serve as subject matter expert and maintain customer relationships during and post-purchase.
District Manager in Training
Lids Hat World
Plano, TX
12.2011 - 11.2012
- Drive team engagement through impactful store visits and follow-up by ensuring DMIT’s stores are provided recognition, gap assessment, ongoing training, and continuous check-ins, including performance management and documentation when relevant, to support and reinforce career and personal growth.
- Develop Store Managers in the skills of recruiting and training to continually strengthen the talents and results in the market.
- Share role and behavior expectations and coordinate onboarding training programs to acclimate new team members.
- Manage business disruptions and provide operational continuity (e.g. store closures, employee absenteeism, schedule / wages, operating hours impact, etc.). Perform work / essential functions of subordinates as needed.
Store Manager
Lids Hat World
Dallas, TX
08.2010 - 12.2011
- Directed execution and support of Selling 101 strategy to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Managed customer feedback resolution and addressed issues promptly, including escalated concerns and urgent requests.
- Oversaw hiring, scheduling, and staffing processes for team members.
- Oversaw cash management operations, ensuring precise opening and closing of the till while implementing counterfeit protection measures.
Education
High School Diploma -
MacArthur High School
Irving, TX06.2004
Skills
- Leadership
- Interpersonal Communication
- Problem Solving
- Relationship Building
- Excellent Customer Service
- P&L Accountability
- Multi Location Management
- Attention to Detail
Accomplishments
Top Sales 2013 Mattress Firm -Dallas Northeast
Top Sales Margin 2013 Mattress Firm-Dallas Northeast
Top Sales Mattress 2015 Mattress Firm-Dallas Northeast
Timeline
Package Handler
FedEx
06.2025 - Current
Merchandising Coordinator
Pilot Company
01.2021 - 12.2025
General Manager
Pilot Company
03.2019 - 01.2021
Store Manager
Mattress Firm
11.2012 - 12.2019
District Manager in Training
Lids Hat World
12.2011 - 11.2012
Store Manager
Lids Hat World
08.2010 - 12.2011
High School Diploma -
MacArthur High School