Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Calista Thorson

Milwaukee

Summary

Results driven professional with expertise in merchandising, supply planning, and marketing. Skilled in inventory management, trend analysis, and vendor relations to optimize operations and create positive outcomes. Excel in fast-paced environments, driving efficiency and improving performance through data analysis and process improvement. A proactive team player with strong problem-solving abilities and a commitment to business success.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Supply Planning Analyst

Milwaukee Tool
09.2024 - 03.2025
  • Supported analytics and performance reporting to evaluate content effectiveness and inform future strategy.
  • Collaborated with vendors and cross-functional teams to align supply chain strategies with business objectives.
  • Utilized data analytics tools to assess trends, forecast demand, and improve inventory accuracy.
  • Optimized purchase order processes to enhance efficiency and reduce lead times.
  • Kept a pulse on emerging trends and platform innovations, piloting new features and recommendations to enhance brand presence.
  • Enforced strategic planning initiatives by analyzing supply and demand data to drive cost-effective solutions.

Merchandising Specialist

Kohl's
11.2022 - 09.2024
  • Managed digital content accuracy and purchase orders for 25,000+ product styles across multiple departments, ensuring alignment with brand standards and campaign timelines.
  • Professionally led top vendor and internal team communication to streamline content handoffs, image assets, and product storytelling for use across social and e-commerce platforms.
  • Interpreted weekly sales and inventory data to inform content prioritization and promotional timing on social media and digital channels.
  • Partnered with buying and creative teams to enhance visual merchandising and content strategy, improving customer engagement and conversion.
  • Worked with cross functional product development and other internal teams to maintain clear and precise updates, execute products, and deliver results.


Nanny (Full & Part Time)

Self-Employed
01.2014 - 10.2022
  • Delivered structured childcare services, managed schedules, transportation, and daily routines for multiple families.
  • Strengthened problem-solving and multitasking skills while balancing caregiving with educational commitments.
  • Built long-term, trust-based relationships with families through reliability, adaptability, and exceptional communication.
  • Gained valuable leadership, conflict resolution, and organizational skills by independently managing household operations.

Customer Service Sales Associate

Kohl's
06.2019 - 06.2021
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring a seamless shopping experience.
  • Assisted in merchandising, inventory restocking, and implementing price adjustments to enhance store presentation.
  • Trained and mentored new team members in product knowledge and customer service best practices.
  • Handled challenging customer interactions with patience and effective communication, leading to increased satisfaction and retention.
  • Juggled part-time employment while completing a full-time university degree, reinforcing multitasking and work ethic.

Education

Bachelor of Business Administration - Marketing

Lubar School of Business, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
01.2022

Bachelor of Science - Retail Merchandising

College of Design, University of Minnesota
05.2018

Skills

  • Marketing Insight
  • Merchandising & Retail Operations
  • Supply Chain & Inventory Management
  • Demand Forecasting & Analytics
  • Vendor Relations & Procurement
  • Process Optimization
  • Customer Experience Enhancement
  • Leadership & Time Management
  • Problem-Solving & Adaptability
  • Performance Tracking
  • Cross-functional Teamwork
  • Fast-paced Environments
  • New Platform Adoption
  • Evolving Trends
  • Quick Learner
  • Microsoft Excel SAP Oracle AX Google Suite (Sheets, Slides, Analytics, Ads)
  • Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Office, Adobe

Timeline

Supply Planning Analyst

Milwaukee Tool
09.2024 - 03.2025

Merchandising Specialist

Kohl's
11.2022 - 09.2024

Customer Service Sales Associate

Kohl's
06.2019 - 06.2021

Nanny (Full & Part Time)

Self-Employed
01.2014 - 10.2022

Bachelor of Science - Retail Merchandising

College of Design, University of Minnesota

Bachelor of Business Administration - Marketing

Lubar School of Business, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee