Results-driven professional with 25 years of retail expertise in leadership, communication, and team management, alongside a strong background in risk management and cost control. Proven ability to analyze market trends and customer preferences, leading to informed decision-making and strategic planning. Skilled in budgeting, inventory management, and regulatory compliance, ensuring operational efficiency and adherence to standards. Committed to enhancing customer service through in-depth product knowledge and relationship building, aiming to contribute to growth and innovation in diverse industries.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
2003
2003
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Beer Buyer/Manager
Joe's Wine and Liquor
Memphis, Tennessee
09.2019 - 07.2025
Strengthened and fostered strong relationships with key beer distributors to maximize profits
Negotiated and prepared orders, contracts, and budgets to ensure financial accuracy.
Organized and marketed beer to optimise profit margins.
Coordinated deliveries from suppliers for 550-person Beer Club.
Facilitated CBD/THC product placement and pricing strategies in store.
Analyzed market trends to forecast product demand effectively.
Ensured timely product delivery while maintaining high customer satisfaction levels.
Managed vendor disputes to uphold professional business relationships.
Evaluated product sales performance, identifying opportunities for improvement.
Assistant Manager
Stellar Cellar Wine and Spirits
Memphis, Tennessee
03.2004 - 09.2019
Worked closely with Gm in everyday operations including managing, inventory
Initiated and planned tastings and educational seminars to engage customers and raise awareness to Beer, Wine and Spirits
Identified and consequently lessened key risks, and worked closely with GM on Budgets and Goals
Set clear goals and objectives quarterly. Consistently increased sales year after year. 100% increase first year, 75% increase over previous year.
Managed social media which fostered strong social media engagement and ROI's
Overcame distribution issues by building strong relationships with key breweries and key suppliers
Set, implemented, and executed bringing Best brands to West Tennessee
Worked closely with Best Brands
Developed strong relationships with suppliers, ensuring timely delivery of products.
Maintained high standards of store cleanliness, enhancing shopping experience for customers.
Handled stock control duties diligently preventing overstocking or shortages.
Increased staff productivity by providing comprehensive training programmes.
Managed daily operations to ensure ultimate customer satisfaction
Delegated tasks to team members efficiently improving overall productivity.
Monitored sales performance regularly adjusting strategies as required.
Coordinated with management on operational issues providing solutions for better efficiency.
Improved customer service by implementing new procedures and protocols.
Minimized inventory loss for improved profit margins.
Education
High School - General
Christian Brothers High School
Memphis, Tennessee
08/1995 - 05.1999
High School - General
Christian Brothers High School
Memphis, Tennessee
08.1995 - 05.1999
Skills
Leadership and Communication
Team Management
Cost Control
Creative and Critical Thinking
Market Insight: predicting customer preferences and market trends
Passion for Education
Negotiation
Problem-solving, adaptive to fast paced environment
Proven track record of increasing revenue
Key Responsibilities
Purchasing & Inventory:
Selecting and purchasing beer from various suppliers.
Managing inventory levels and ensuring adequate stock.
Monitoring product codes, quality assurance, and storage.
Handling product rotation and maintenance.
Placing orders and coordinating deliveries.
Customer Service & Sales: Providing friendly and knowledgeable service to customers.
Assisting customers with finding specific beers or recommending options.
Potentially participating in promotional activities.
Product Knowledge & Trends: Staying up-to-date on beer trends, styles, and availability.
Understanding production processes and flavor profiles.
Predicting customer preferences and market trends.
Negotiation & Relationships:
Negotiating pricing and deals with beer distributors.
Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers.
Administrative Tasks:
Managing purchasing and POS systems.
Handling invoices, returns, and other related paperwork.
Potentially participating in regional purchasing programs.
General Duties:
Ensuring a clean and organized work environment.
Performing opening, mid-day, or closing duties as assigned.
Reporting any safety hazards or violations.
Attending team and store meetings.
Potentially training other team members.
Skills & Qualifications:
Extensive knowledge of production, styles, and flavor profiles.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work as part of a team and independently.
Proficiency in computer programs and ordering systems.