Howard Kaufold
Castle Rock,CO
Summary
Proven Category Manager with a track record of driving category growth and enhancing vendor relations at Strategic Retail Partners. Leveraged data analysis and pricing strategy to boost market share, achieving significant product management successes. Skilled in merchandising and team leadership, consistently delivering results beyond expectations.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Category Manager
Strategic Retail Partners
Castle Rock, CO
06.2017 - Current
- Developed and implemented category strategies to increase market share for assigned categories.
- Analyzed sales data to identify opportunities for growth in specific product lines.
- Identified new products, vendors, and services that could benefit the organization.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of products at competitive prices.
- Directed entire lifecycle of product development, ensuring seamless transition from design to delivery.
- Maintained records of item cost, retail and gross profit and margin dollars to determine category sales and gross profit results.
Assistant Store Manager
Coleman Company
Castle Rock, CO
01.2016 - 06.2017
- Provided training to new employees on company policies and procedures.
- Oversaw daily cash handling procedures, reconciling discrepancies as necessary.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner and addressed any issues that may arise during store hours.
- Conducted regular performance reviews of staff members in order to identify areas for improvement.
- Managed the day-to-day operations of the store, including customer service, inventory management and staff scheduling.
Market Specialist
Implus LLC
Castle Rock, CO
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Analyzed consumer trends, competitor activities, and industry developments to recommend changes to marketing plans.
- Coordinated with customer employees and internal teams for effective product introductions.
- Organized product launches, trade shows, and other promotional events.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Analyzed sales data to understand product performance and identify areas for improvement.
Training Manager
S.A. Elite by Sports Authority
Denver, CO
01.2010 - 01.2014
- Trained employees on product features, operational standards, and customer service techniques.
- Educated employees on managing inventory control procedures.
- Performed weekly operational audits to ensure readiness for annual evaluations.
- Supported team advancement through tailored coaching and performance guidance.
- Presented training information via role playing, simulations and team exercises.
- Identified areas of improvement in existing training methods and procedures.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Business Management
Colorado State University Global Campus
Englewood, COSkills
- Category growth
- Pricing strategy
- Vendor relations
- Go-to-market strategy
- Supplier relationship management
- Merchandising
- Data analysis
- Product management
Accomplishments
- 2009 DIII National Champion - Golf at Oglethorpe University.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Category Manager
Strategic Retail Partners
06.2017 - Current
Assistant Store Manager
Coleman Company
01.2016 - 06.2017
Market Specialist
Implus LLC
01.2014 - 01.2016
Training Manager
S.A. Elite by Sports Authority
01.2010 - 01.2014
Bachelor's Degree - Business Management
Colorado State University Global Campus
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