Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Disclaimer
Work Availability
Timeline
GeneralManager

Athena Nicolaou

Corona,USA

Summary

I am an experienced manager with exceptional client and product management capabilities. I am action-oriented and can communicate effectively with diverse audiences within multi-location national facilities, including technology, executive, and business sectors. My primary responsibilities encompass overseeing factory operations, talent acquisitions, coaching sales associated with professional sales techniques, platinum customer service standards, staff development, and instructing personnel on merchandise features, marketing, fitting techniques, and market trends. I also manage scheduling coverage, set sales goals, and support sales staff in developing customer relationships and building a robust business book. Additionally, I implement corporate directives, marketing strategies, and sales promotions—primary goal achievement in revenue growth.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

General Manager

FXI/Pacific Tec/MacFarlane
01.1997
  • I managed annual transactions exceeding 24 million.
  • Led a team of 145 staff
  • I created comprehensive reports detailing branch activities
  • I developed marketing materials to enhance brand visibility.
  • I ensured that I adhered to deadlines by effectively managing individual and team tasks.
  • I collected and evaluated customer feedback to enhance operational efficiencies.
  • Conducted bi-weekly sales meetings, providing the sales team with the tools necessary to achieve the company goals.
  • At Pacific Tec/MacFarlane, Ontario, CA, Sales, I restructured the fabrication plant to successfully capture customers in the bedding, medical consumer products, and packaging sectors, leading to a 15% increase in market share.
  • I implemented a new procedural framework that equipped plant personnel, office staff, and sales teams with accurate information to serve customers better.
  • I participated in board meetings with the parent company located overseas.
  • Assigned and led the team in successfully acquiring a competitor and relocating the factory sales/operations to the Ontario location.
  • Lead the team in establishing a new facility as a Maquiladora in Mexico.

Innovative Bedding Solutions
11.2019 - 10.2024
  • I have restructured and reorganized the office and production process to meet contemporary market expectations.
  • The movement of equipment streamed lined production and increased capacity/ profitability.
  • I implemented new procedures to achieve company goals related to success, efficiency, productivity, quality, and regulations. In addition I educated based on my background sales and production staff on every product used so they better understand and communicate successfully with customers.
  • Sales representatives counted on me with customer interactions due to my technical/design expertise, analyst the projects and provided costing, alternative project options, and strategies tailored to individual customer needs.
  • With my market knowledge I was able to produce brand name consumer products for customers successfully.
  • I facilitated positive audit outcomes from major customers by achieving the highest rating available. Through their audits at two facilities, which had no prior audit experience, Costco approved me 97%. I also passed with a 96% rating from an FDA audit.
  • I analyzed the Company's profit/loss statement, taking steps to reduce costs and increase revenue by 10% within an expected timeline that impacted the Profit and Loss results.
  • Reviewed Federal standards and resolved any discrepancies. My knowledge of FR standards 1633, 1632, Prop65, and California 117 was key to successfully elevating the Company's compliance. Contracted a third-party lab for testing and created procedures accommodating federal and state requirements. The procedure put in place avoided any issues with Federal or State regulations.
  • I communicated constantly with suppliers and ensured that any products received were accompanied by the correct paperwork regarding specifications and regulations.
  • Using my understanding of the transportation market, I negotiated with FedEx, LTL, and Truckload providers and presented cost savings to major customers and the Company.
  • I worked with Custom Brokers for all International shipments, arranging and providing the necessary documentation for products sold overseas.
  • I was the primary contact for chemical permits/structural permits based on Federal and State regulations. I was successfully in contact with State and Federal Agencies.
  • I worked closely with Accounts Receivables due to my close relationships with customers. I encountered difficulties with payments due and communicated directly with customers, bringing millions of outstanding debt within terms.
  • Consultant (Owner), Atticus Products LLC, Chino Hills, CA 01/2016 – 11/2019
  • I applied business acumen consulting expertise to assist organizations in meeting their short-term and long-term business objectives.
  • I provided consulting services to various clients in sales and manufacturing practices, offering market expertise to enhance profitability and streamline manufacturing processes.
  • Furthermore, I aided customers in expanding their client base by entering additional markets.
  • I educated clients on Regulations that they needed to adhere to.

General Manager-National Medical Director

Future Foam
10.2007 - 11.2015
  • I managed annual transactions exceeding $35 million.
  • Worked directly with all Future Foam plants across the United States and China to secure national accounts in the consumer, medical, furniture, and bedding markets.
  • I trained, coached, and mentored staff to ensure seamless adoption of new business goals. Resulting to a top notch professional customer service team.
  • Weekly meeting with the sales team created a successful inviroment of a sales team with specific goals and achieving the incredible results.
  • I conducted audits at Future Foam locations and reported my findings and individual plant needs directly to the owner.
  • I accomplished the objective of servicing national accounts requiring multiple fabrication plants for product needs.
  • I produce a solid supply chain, overseen logistics and successfully operated distribution center operations.
  • Strengthened the Company's business by diversifying the core business and introducing Future Foam to new Markets
  • I successfully negotiated national contracts with diverse customers.
  • I created new revenue streams through automation in the plants and the offices.
  • Implemented effective safety programs, Quality procedures, FDA approval, and being ISO compliant
  • I collaborated closely with sales personnel and customers to secure business domestically and internationally.
  • Consistently exceeding company objectives with the Profit/Loss results.
  • Serviced 5 Simmons Bedding facilities in CA, AZ, and Hawaii with enormous success.
  • Restructured one of the factories from the ground up to accommodate extreme expectations from Simmons Bedding. I was able to ship over 10 truckloads per day and receive Simmons's appreciation from the Corporate office.
  • Implemented a Kanban system and created a new computer/inventory control system.
  • Trained the staff, changed the plant layout, and purchased equipment to lower labor costs and increase capacity, quality, and timely deliveries.
  • I created relationships with suppliers overseas and provided Future Foam with exclusivity on products patented by suppliers from Europe.
  • Collaborated with chemical engineers on new products and formulations.
  • As a Sales Manager, I supported my sales staff by accompanying them in meetings with customers nationwide.
  • Due to achieving Company Goals, I was promoted to General Manager of a second fabrication plant in addition to National Medical Director.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Directed daily operations to enhance team performance and improve service delivery.
  • Implemented process improvements that streamlined workflows and increased operational efficiency.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to align business objectives with operational capabilities.
  • Developed training programs to elevate staff competencies and ensure adherence to safety standards.
  • Analyzed performance metrics to identify trends, driving data-driven decisions for resource allocation.
  • Fostered a culture of continuous improvement through regular feedback and team engagement initiatives.
  • Managed vendor relationships to optimize supply chain processes and reduce operational costs.
  • Oversaw compliance with industry regulations, ensuring high standards of quality and safety in all operations.
  • Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
  • Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
  • Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
  • Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately.
  • Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
  • Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
  • Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
  • Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
  • Implemented operational strategies and effectively built customer and employee loyalty.
  • Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
  • Increased overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
  • Established comprehensive employee training programs to develop skills, improve productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
  • Directed comprehensive sales efforts to exceed revenue targets consistently while maintaining customer satisfaction levels.
  • Maximized operational excellence mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
  • Implemented robust inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and minimize waste/costs associated with excess product storage.
  • Championed continuous improvement initiatives that enhanced operational performance across all departments.
  • Analyzed market trends/data to identify potential opportunities for business growth within existing or emerging markets successfully.
  • Provided thoughtful guidance to personnel in navigating and resolving snags in productivity.
  • Developed and executed strategic plans for business growth and expansion, resulting in increased market share.
  • Drove revenue growth by identifying and penetrating new market segments with tailored marketing strategies.
  • Negotiated with suppliers to secure better pricing, reducing operational costs while maintaining product quality.
  • Drove the successful execution of numerous large-scale events/promotions while closely managing costs/budgetary constraints associated with event planning/management activities.
  • Streamlined inventory management processes, minimizing waste and ensuring optimal stock levels for uninterrupted operations.
  • Led team to exceed sales targets, implementing motivational incentives and comprehensive training programs.
  • Developed and executed comprehensive employee training program, elevating staff skills and improving service delivery.
  • Oversaw successful launch of new product lines, coordinating between departments to ensure unified approach and timely delivery.
  • Optimized supply chain logistics, ensuring timely delivery of products and significantly reducing transportation costs.
  • Fostered culture of continuous improvement, introducing regular review sessions that boosted team performance and morale.
  • Boosted employee retention by developing comprehensive benefits package and fostering positive work environment.
  • Expanded business operations into international markets, navigating regulatory environments and cultural differences for successful entry.
  • Addressed customer complaints and feedback with immediate action, turning dissatisfied customers into loyal patrons.
  • Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
  • Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
  • Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
  • Implemented innovative programs to increase employee loyalty and reduce turnover.
  • Successfully negotiated client contract renewals to create increased revenue.
  • Reduced budgetary expenditures by effectively negotiating contracts for more advantageous terms.

Sales Representative

Foamex (FXI)
08.1994 - 12.1996
  • Managed a portfolio of approximately 100 sales accounts.
  • I negotiated and set sales prices, terms of sales, and service agreements with clients.
  • Engaged new and existing customers to discuss how their needs could be satisfied through specific tailored products and services.
  • Provided quotations, credit terms, and other specifications for bids that met customer needs.
  • Selected appropriate products based on customer requirements, product specifications, and applicable government regulations.
  • Fostered relationships with customers and the community to promote sustainable business development.

Education

Finance

Fullerton College
Fullerton, CA

Skills

  • Team leadership skills
  • Cost management strategy
  • Data analysis
  • Coaching expertise
  • Project coordination
  • Long-term planning
  • Innovative product strategy
  • Executive-level communication
  • Cultivating collaborative partnerships
  • Team collaboration
  • Goal-oriented motivation
  • Effective communication
  • Sales team leadership
  • Financial performance analysis
  • Lean production techniques
  • Customer relationship management expertise

Disclaimer

Sincerely, Athena Nicolaou

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline

Innovative Bedding Solutions
11.2019 - 10.2024

General Manager-National Medical Director

Future Foam
10.2007 - 11.2015

General Manager

FXI/Pacific Tec/MacFarlane
01.1997

Sales Representative

Foamex (FXI)
08.1994 - 12.1996

Finance

Fullerton College

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Athena Nicolaou