Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Emily Sparks

Springfield,MO

Summary

Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in merchandising and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Merchant II - Toys

Bass Pro Shops
Springfield, MO
06.2023 - Current
  • Analyze sales and trends to accurately react to business needs
  • Effectively works with marketing, product development, & various teams to create strong product and drive sales
  • Consistently manages multiple tasks and projects at one time while hitting deadlines
  • Acted as interim toy merchant for 5 months
  • Successfully manage 30+ import programs and 20+ domestic programs
  • Co-developed 16 special items for Bass Pro Shops Santa's Wonderland 2024 in addition to developing 4 plush programs
  • Surpassed LY gross margin by negotiating stronger costs with my vendors and securing markdown funds

Buyer of Girls 4-6x and Toddler

Von Maur Center
Davenport, IA
09.2022 - 05.2023
  • Deliver exceptional results by curating and assorting collections for 35+ locations
  • Drive sales and maximize profitability by developing an acute understanding of market trends and customer preferences
  • Build strong relationships with vendors, negotiate product discounts, and manage inventory levels
  • Oversee finances by creating budgeting and forecasting yearly buy plans for two departments
  • Acquired and onboarded new vendors through networking and communication
  • Met and surpassed goal for gross margin and IMU
  • Successfully managed annual budget of 13$M+
  • Coordinated with 60+ vendors and traveled to market to select correct products
  • Davenport, IA

Executive Trainee

Von Maur
Davenport, IA
05.2022 - 09.2022
  • Implemented data-driven decisions after analyzing daily sales data
  • Conducted in-depth market research to develop winning strategies, improving sales
  • With a keen eye for design and a strong understanding of consumer behavior, effectively merchandised both new and existing products
  • Corresponded with customers in-store, quickly identifying needs and offering personalized recommendations
  • Achieved customer satisfaction and retention through excellent service

Merchandising Intern

Bass Pro Shops
Springfield, MO
06.2021 - 08.2021
  • Formulated, organized, and executed a quarter four holiday market strategy deck
  • Reviewed NPI and designed spreadsheet, aligning with current market trends and customer demand
  • Gained valuable experience in the retail industry by supporting product assortment planning, vendor communication, and inventory management

Education

Bachelor of Science - Apparel Merchandising

Iowa State University
Ames, IA
05.2022

Skills

  • Competitor analysis
  • Vendor negotiation
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Meeting sales goals
  • Retail metrics and goals
  • Trend awareness
  • Relationship building
  • Performance tracking

Timeline

Assistant Merchant II - Toys

Bass Pro Shops
06.2023 - Current

Buyer of Girls 4-6x and Toddler

Von Maur Center
09.2022 - 05.2023

Executive Trainee

Von Maur
05.2022 - 09.2022

Merchandising Intern

Bass Pro Shops
06.2021 - 08.2021

Bachelor of Science - Apparel Merchandising

Iowa State University

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Emily Sparks