Jahi Meraz
Newburgh,USA
Summary
Customer-focused and detail-oriented professional with over 10 years of experience in retail sales, customer service, and purchasing, now transitioning into the fashion industry. Proven track record of exceeding sales targets, maintaining strong vendor relationships, and managing purchasing and inventory within tight budgets. Strong creative instincts paired with analytical thinking, product research skills, and a lifelong passion for fashion. Seeking an entry-level opportunity in fashion buying or merchandising to leverage both business acumen and style sensibility in a fast-paced, trend-driven environment.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Buyer
Marco Board House Inc.
Poughkeepsie, NY
05.2025 - Current
- Analyzed market trends and conducted competitive research to identify new product opportunities and potential cost savings
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to forecast demand, plan inventory levels, and prevent stockouts or overstock situations
- Created purchase orders based on inventory needs while considering lead times, order quantities, and budget constraints
Materials Manager
Hudson Valley Ambulatory
Middletown, NY
04.2022 - 04.2025
- Managed inventory levels to ensure optimal stock availability while minimizing excess and obsolete materials, resulting in a 25% reduction in carrying costs
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers to secure favorable pricing terms, resulting in annual cost savings of 55%
- Conducted regular audits of inventory data to ensure data integrity and accuracy, resulting in a reduction of discrepancies by 20%
- Maintained accurate records of all incoming/outgoing shipments
- Managed the disposal of hazardous materials in compliance with environmental regulations
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Eastern Orange Ambulatory Surgery Center
Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY
02.2021 - 04.2022
- Assisted surgical team in preparing operating room for procedures, ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies were readily available
- Handed instruments to surgeons during procedures, anticipating their needs and maintaining a sterile field at all times
- Managed inventory of surgical supplies and restocked as needed to ensure uninterrupted workflow during procedures
- Liaised between surgical team members, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to facilitate effective communication during surgeries
Claims Representative
RTACabinetStore
Remote
11.2020 - 02.2021
- Provided exceptional customer service by promptly addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction
- Managed a high volume of incoming calls and emails, consistently meeting or exceeding performance metrics for response time and resolution
- Demonstrated strong product knowledge to effectively answer customer questions and provide accurate information
- Built rapport with customers through active listening, empathy, and personalized interactions
Associate Banker
Chase Bank
Newburgh, NY
05.2019 - 11.2020
- Processed customer transactions accurately and efficiently, including deposits, withdrawals, loan payments, and check cashing
- Maintained a balanced cash drawer at all times, with zero discrepancies or errors
- Promoted bank products and services to customers based on their financial needs and goals
- Received customer service award for de-escalation techniques in intense customer situations
Lead Customer Service Representative
Home Depot
Newburgh, NY
01.2016 - 05.2019
- Developed strong relationships with key customers through regular check-ins and personalized follow-ups
- Identified opportunities for upselling or cross-selling products/services based on customer needs and preferences
- Managed escalated complaints from dissatisfied customers, resolving issues promptly while maintaining professionalism at all times
- Mentored new hires during their onboarding process, providing guidance and support as they acclimated to their roles
Lead Sales Associate
Pier 1 Imports
Newburgh, NY
03.2014 - 01.2016
- Served as the key holder, responsible for opening and closing the store, handling cash deposits, and ensuring security protocols were followed
- Assisted in visual merchandising efforts to create an appealing store environment that drove customer engagement
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with customers, resulting in a high rate of repeat business
- Consistently exceeded monthly sales targets by an average of 15%, resulting in increased revenue for the company
Education
Science (Associate) -
Orange County Community College
Middletown, NY05.2018
Skills
- Budget management
- Business acumen
- Trend forecasting
- Leadership
- Analytical thinking
- Vendor management
- Negotiation
- Visual merchandising
- Sales experience
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
Languages
Spanish - Fluent
Timeline
Buyer
Marco Board House Inc.
05.2025 - Current
Materials Manager
Hudson Valley Ambulatory
04.2022 - 04.2025
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Eastern Orange Ambulatory Surgery Center
02.2021 - 04.2022
Claims Representative
RTACabinetStore
11.2020 - 02.2021
Associate Banker
Chase Bank
05.2019 - 11.2020
Lead Customer Service Representative
Home Depot
01.2016 - 05.2019
Lead Sales Associate
Pier 1 Imports
03.2014 - 01.2016
Science (Associate) -
Orange County Community College