Brandon Schmidt
Category Manager
River Falls,WI
Summary
2020 MBA graduate and experienced high-volume retail leader. Strong analytical mindset with a passion for business strategy and development. Thrives in work environments that foster consistent challenges and opportunities for professional growth. Highly coachable individual that is eager to learn. Essential team player and leader that brings positivity to any office culture.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Category Insights Manager
Acosta Group
05.2024 - Current
- Conducted data-driven category management leveraging Target VIQ, Circana, Nielsen, and other syndicated data tools to identify trends and growth opportunities.
- Developed insights-driven analytics and strategic recommendations using shopper, panel, and basket data to grow and optimize retail performance.
- Led business reviews and line reviews, collaborating cross-functionally to deliver advanced assortment optimization and category growth strategies.
- Provided forecasting and trend analysis to inform strategic decisions and support long-term planning for key accounts.
- Utilized Power BI, Excel, PowerPoint, Kantar, Mintel, Analytical Index and Co-Pilot AI
Buyer
Sportsman's Guide Inc.
06.2020 - 05.2024
- Became interim buyer in April of 2022 before being officially promoted in August. Currently still retain AB responsibilities as well.
- Managed profitability and implemented strategic direction of a $34mm category including sales, margin, turnover, gross margin return on investment (GMROI), and provides input on inventory.
- Identified and took action on all slow turning and obsolete merchandise in assigned categories.
- Negotiated co-op and volume rebates to support company growth initiatives.
- Communicated with vendors regarding inventory needs and negotiated prices to maintain profit margins.
- Monitored and analyzed sales records, trends, or economic conditions to anticipate consumer buying patterns.
- Worked cross-functionally with marketing to implement new strategies.
Founder & Owner
Owner-Operator
02.2021 - Current
- Owner & Founder of The Social Space - www.TheSocialSpaceWI.com
- Long-term and short-term real estate investor
Executive Team Leader, Logistics
Target
07.2017 - 06.2020
- Lead 4 direct reports and 100 hourly team members, promoting culture of efficiency and performance.
- Analyzed and interpreted store trends with Excel to facilitate planning and scheduling.
- Oversaw employee performance, corrected problems and increased efficiency to maintain productivity targets.
- Grew store sales to over $78m, YoY increase of 3%, by devising strategic daily plans capitalizing on changing market conditions.
Executive Intern
Target
06.2016 - 06.2017
- Grew and developed an understanding of how to be an Executive Team Lead.
- Created merchandising plans to control consumer behavior and drive sales.
- Measured and analyzed store metrics to identify opportunities to consistently improve sales.
- Developed knowledge of all facets of Target's processes and best practices.
Infantry Fire Team Leader - Sergeant (E5)
Army National Guard
Menomonie, Wisconsin
07.2011 - 07.2017
- Instructed and advised matters of tactics, personal management and junior leader development.
- Held responsibility for the welfare, fitness, moral and discipline within the fire team.
Branch Manager (Intern)
College Works Painting
02.2015 - 10.2015
- Exceeded $55,000 in sales.
- Made the national Top 5 Weekly Sales list 2x (ranked amongst ~4000 other national interns).
- Generated leads through multiple marketing strategies including Facebook Ads, Door-to-door marketing, bulletin board ads, and cold-calling.
- Established fair pricing structures and finalized contracts to complete purchase agreements with clients.
- Used consultative sales approach to understand customer needs and recommend relevant offerings.
Education
MBA -
Jack Welch Management Institute
Online 04.2018 - 06.2020
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Minnesota State University - Mankato
Mankato, MN 01.2013 - 05.2017
Timeline
Category Insights Manager
Acosta Group
05.2024 - Current
Founder & Owner
Owner-Operator
02.2021 - Current
Buyer
Sportsman's Guide Inc.
06.2020 - 05.2024
MBA -
Jack Welch Management Institute
04.2018 - 06.2020
Executive Team Leader, Logistics
Target
07.2017 - 06.2020
Executive Intern
Target
06.2016 - 06.2017
Branch Manager (Intern)
College Works Painting
02.2015 - 10.2015
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Minnesota State University - Mankato
01.2013 - 05.2017
Infantry Fire Team Leader - Sergeant (E5)
Army National Guard
07.2011 - 07.2017