Heather Hilton

Analyze customer needs, expectations, and buying behaviors to inform merchandise decisions.
Conduct market and competitive research to identify trends and opportunities within the category.
Execute and support seasonal merchandise strategy with a clear understanding of department goals.
Partner with the In-Season team to prepare for market appointments and line reviews.
Support negotiations on exclusive offerings, pricing, terms, vendor‑funded markdowns, and drop‑ship initiatives.
Contribute to in‑season inventory management, including markdown strategies and exit planning.
Evaluate business performance through analysis and data‑driven decision‑making to strengthen department results.
Participate in business reviews to understand the impact of departmental actions on total company performance.

Won Holiday Cup for Rack 2025

• Managed the development of new products from concept through production launch ensuring accuracy and timeliness of deliverables
• Demonstrated strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills while managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Ensured compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and standards applicable to product merchandising activities
• Managed relationships with external partners including vendors, contractors, and suppliers
• Identified areas of improvement within existing systems and processes related to product merchandising
• Conducted in-depth research to identify target markets and develop appropriate marketing strategies
• Created detailed reports on product performance to inform management decisions
• Collaborated with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of merchandise
• Received and documented customer feedback to provide sales insights to upper management.

• Complete buying office owned item attributes for item setup.
• Analyzed the financial performance of product categories to determine profitability and make recommendations for improvements
• Developed relationships with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable terms for purchases and negotiate discounts.
• Execute order writing, RTV'S, reorders, and take appropriate actions to help the business manage the complex needs of inventory, OTB, and pricing strategies.
• Communicate clearly and timely manner with suppliers and cross-functional partners.
• Manage and monitor Dropship feeds, including monitoring live dates, shifts, and supplier communication.

• Delivered first class customer service, driving quality shopping experiences
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks while remaining adaptable and flexible
• Identified ways to improve efficiency in operations and implemented process changes
• Collaborated with internal and external teams to ensure alignment of messaging across channels
• Demonstrated exceptional problem solving skills in resolving customer complaints and issues
• Handled escalated customer issues, driving customer satisfaction and repeat business
• Provided leadership and mentorship to staff members, leading to improved job performance and morale
• Trained and supervised associates on customer service excellence and strong company culture
• Oversaw the development, implementation, and maintenance of policies and procedures within the department
• Coordinated and organized special projects and events within the department
• Adhered to store merchandising standards in support of appropriate inventory levels and backroom organization
• Created weekly schedules based on predicted staffing needs, budgets and employee requests
• Represented business in marketplace and developed relationships with key accounts to promote and market business
• Recognized by store manager on several occasions based on business growth and exceeding sales goals
• Awarded the Best of Weddings for 2018 by The Knot and Seattle Bride Magazine.