Aric Peterson
Summary
Accomplished Senior Buyer offering years of experience in researching and purchasing highly-desirable products to meet consumer needs. Talented in building strong relationships with top suppliers and negotiating prices for best value when making purchases. Expert in maintaining in-depth knowledge of product trends and current market pricing. First-rate planner, manager and communicator highly trained in purchasing and supply chain management. Proficient in managing purchasing needs in high-volume operations. Skilled research and forecasting abilities with strengths in communication and key relationship management.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Merchandise Buyer
United Hardware Distributing
11.2021 - Current
- Improved profitability by regularly reviewing pricing strategies and making adjustments based on competitive analysis.
- Established strong relationships with vendors, negotiating favorable terms and ensuring timely delivery of products.
- Negotiated pricing with vendors to achieve maximum profitability.
- Coordinated with logistics teams to ensure accurate forecasting of replenishment needs based on sales data analysis.
- Monitored inventory levels and made necessary adjustments to maximize sales and profits.
- Achieved consistently high gross margin percentages through astute merchandise planning and strategic buying decisions.
- Leveraged data analytics tools to identify emerging trends, informing long-term business strategy development.
- Increased sales by developing and implementing effective merchandising strategies for various product lines.
- Collaborated with marketing team for prompt promotion of products.
- Managed open-to-buy budgets effectively, balancing inventory levels with sales projections to maximize revenue potential.
Production Supervisor
Emerson
01.2018 - 10.2021
- Established operational objectives and work plans and delegated assignments to subordinate managers.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement necessary changes.
- Set and enforced performance-oriented production approach, significantly increasing worker output and reducing safety incidents.
- Boosted team morale and productivity through effective communication, coaching, and recognition of individual achievements.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to help employees reach their full potential.
Merchandise Manager
United Hardware Distributing
03.2014 - 01.2018
- Developed and tracked metrics to measure supplier performance and cost savings.
- Monitored inventory levels and made necessary adjustments to maximize sales and profits.
- Streamlined merchandise flow by implementing efficient receiving processes and timely replenishment of the sales floor.
- Developed and implemented successful strategies to increase sales and profits.
- Negotiated pricing with vendors to achieve maximum profitability.
- Maintained updated product knowledge to successfully educate and advise customers.
Assistant General Manager
Menards
01.2011 - 03.2014
- Established and maintained relationships with external vendors for prompt restocking of needed items and supplies.
- Reviewed customer feedback to identify trends and improve product selection.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends, adjusting product placement and displays accordingly for maximum impact.
- Streamlined merchandise ordering processes, reducing lead time for stock replenishment.
- Monitored competitor activity, implementing strategic pricing adjustments to remain competitive in the market.
Assistant General Manager
Menards
03.2003 - 01.2011
- Mentored and motivated team members to achieve challenging business goals.
- Collaborated with the General Manager on marketing initiatives to increase brand awareness and drive sales growth.
- Increased customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving concerns in a timely manner.
- Collaborated with other departments to establish productive and timely completion of projects.
Department Manager - Plumbing
Menards
05.1998 - 03.2003
- Implemented cross-training initiatives for employees, increasing overall departmental knowledge and versatility.
- Controlled resources and assets for department activities to comply with industry standards and government regulations.
- Prepared detailed reports for management to clarify existing trends, review sales and inventory data and support shrink minimization and safety awareness.
Education
Associate of Science - Business Management
Minot State University
Minot, NDSkills
- Strategize Inventory
- Buying Market Programs
- Data Management (Epicor)
- Price Negotiations
- New Product Sourcing
- Vendor Relations
- Purchase Orders
- Advertising Promotions
- Supply Chain Coordination
- Competitive Analysis
- Market Analysis
- Clear Communication
Timeline
Senior Merchandise Buyer
United Hardware Distributing
11.2021 - Current
Production Supervisor
Emerson
01.2018 - 10.2021
Merchandise Manager
United Hardware Distributing
03.2014 - 01.2018
Assistant General Manager
Menards
01.2011 - 03.2014
Assistant General Manager
Menards
03.2003 - 01.2011
Department Manager - Plumbing
Menards
05.1998 - 03.2003
Associate of Science - Business Management
Minot State University