Etienne Bernard
Palo Alto,CA
Summary
Dynamic and relationship-driven sales professional with 25+ years of success in the eyewear industry, including distribution, importing, brand representation, hiring and managing sales representative, frame design. Known for building deep, loyal client relationships and consistently growing territory revenue through consultative selling and outstanding service. Passionate about helping independent practices thrive with customized eyewear solutions. Self-motivated, tech-savvy, and ready to drive growth for a leading brand.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
PRESIDENT
Euro Eyewear, Inc.
Portola Valley, USA
01.2003 - 12.2024
- Company Overview: Exclusive US distributor for MINIMA Eyewear
- Founded and operated a successful eyewear distribution business in the USA, serving as an exclusive importer and brand representative for leading European frame lines, including MENRAD, MINIMA, GROSSFILLEY.
- Designed, manufactured, and sold original eyewear collections, managing the full product lifecycle from concept to retail.
- Built and maintained a robust network of independent optical practices, achieving a client retention rate of over 90% through personalized service and industry expertise.
- Developed go-to-market strategies for multiple brands, increasing territory sales by double digits year over year.
- Managed trade show presence, product launches, and training sessions to build brand awareness and client engagement.
- Exclusive US distributor for MINIMA Eyewear
Territory Sales Representative
MINIMA
Mountain View, USA
01.1999 - 12.2002
- Grew San Francisco Bay Area territory by consistently exceeding monthly and annual sales targets.
- Developed strong consultative relationships with optometrists, ophthalmologists, practice owners, and buyers, tailoring eyewear solutions to meet patient and practice needs.
- Provided ongoing product training and merchandising support to maximize sell-through at retail locations.
Education
BBA - International Sales and Marketing
Institut des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises
Metz, FRANCESkills
- Territory Sales Management
- Eyewear Product Knowledge
- Client Acquisition
- Client Retention
- Relationship-Based Selling
- CRM
- Sales Reporting Tools
- Lead Generation
- Prospecting
- Account Growth Strategy
- Brand Representation
- Trade Shows
- Event Sales
- Independent Practice Support
Additional Information
- Willing to travel throughout assigned territory.
- Flexible for occasional weekend events or trade shows.
- Passionate about fashion, innovation, and helping people see better and feel great.
Languages
- Fluent in French
- Fluent in English
Timeline
PRESIDENT
Euro Eyewear, Inc.
01.2003 - 12.2024
Territory Sales Representative
MINIMA
01.1999 - 12.2002
BBA - International Sales and Marketing
Institut des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises