James Gilman
Edgewater,MD
Summary
Dynamic Sales and Marketing Professional
Results-driven individual with a strong track record in building customer relationships and driving sales growth. Exceptional communication and project management skills that enable effective collaboration across teams and departments. Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced environments, adeptly managing multiple priorities to achieve strategic objectives. Recognized for a proactive approach to identifying market opportunities and optimizing processes that enhance team performance and profitability.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Yacht Broker/Brand Manager
David Walters Yachts
03.2022 - Current
- Developed and executed tailored marketing strategies to promote high-value yachts, enhancing brand visibility and driving sales growth.
- Facilitated seamless contract negotiations and documentation, ensuring compliance with industry standards while enhancing customer confidence.
- Provided exceptional customer service by promptly addressing inquiries, delivering accurate information, and managing quote requests to elevate client satisfaction.
- Coordinated inspections and surveys of sold vessels, ensuring a smooth transition for clients and reinforcing trust in our services.
- Specialized in cultivating relationships with high-net-worth individuals, identifying their unique needs, and guiding them through the yacht purchasing process to maximize sales opportunities.
General Manager
Sirocco Marine/Brig USA
05.2019 - 02.2022
- Spearheaded strategic growth initiatives, achieving a remarkable increase in sales from $1.2 million in 2019 to $3.5 million in 2021 through innovative marketing and sales strategies.
- Fostered long-lasting client relationships and enhanced customer loyalty through effective communication and personalized issue resolution.
- Trained and motivated a high-performing team, driving productivity and ensuring alignment with sales goals.
- Monitored financial performance, optimizing budgets and controlling expenses to support sustainable growth and profitability.
- Implemented lean manufacturing processes to reduce costs while effectively increasing sales margins.
Sales/Operations Manager
KO Sailing
09.2011 - 04.2019
- Rebranded and relaunched the business, setting ambitious goals and leading a team to achieve significant market penetration in the sailing industry.
- Managed comprehensive operations including marketing, customer engagement, and product development to enhance brand presence and customer satisfaction.
- Leveraged inbound marketing techniques to create valuable content, such as educational videos and training, addressing customer pain points and driving engagement.
- Expanded the company's digital footprint through strategic use of social media, blogs, and newsletters, enhancing customer interaction and brand loyalty.
- Developed and implemented strategic plans for yacht club programs, focusing on sales, client relations, and operational excellence.
Sales Manager
Dinghy Locker @ Landfall Navigation
03.2009 - 09.2011
- Transformed a recognized local brand into a nationally recognized entity, setting industry standards for service quality and comprehensive product offerings in the sailing market.
- Designed and launched mobile retail locations, increasing customer accessibility and driving repeat business.
- Oversaw product procurement and inventory management, ensuring a diverse and high-quality product range that met customer needs.
Institutional Sales
Vanguard Sailboats/Laser Performance
06.2006 - 12.2008
- Drove sales of sailing vessels to institutional clients, fostering relationships with universities, schools, and community programs to expand market reach.
- Utilized strategic marketing and networking at trade shows to generate new leads and enhance brand visibility.
- Managed custom orders meticulously, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with client specifications, reinforcing trust and satisfaction.
Education
Master’s of Maritime Administration and Logistics - Financial Management, Operations Management Business Economica, Decision Analysis and Modeling, Marketing, Transportation Logistics, Intermodal Transportation, Maritime Transport Economics
Texas A&M University Galveston
05.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
05.2006
Skills
- Customer Relationship Management: Expertise in cultivating strong customer connections and leveraging insights to drive engagement and loyalty
- Strategic Problem Solving: Ability to analyze market trends and customer feedback to develop innovative solutions that address challenges and capitalize on opportunities
- Time Management & Prioritization: Efficiently organize and execute tasks to meet deadlines and exceed sales targets
- Collaborative Team Player: Work effectively within diverse teams to achieve common goals and enhance overall marketing strategies
- Continuous Learning: Eager to stay ahead of industry trends and best practices to drive personal and organizational success
- Business Development: Proven ability to build and maintain a robust book of business, contributing to revenue growth and market expansion
- Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, along with CRM management experience using HubSpot, including website implementation
Timeline
Yacht Broker/Brand Manager
David Walters Yachts
03.2022 - Current
General Manager
Sirocco Marine/Brig USA
05.2019 - 02.2022
Sales/Operations Manager
KO Sailing
09.2011 - 04.2019
Sales Manager
Dinghy Locker @ Landfall Navigation
03.2009 - 09.2011
Institutional Sales
Vanguard Sailboats/Laser Performance
06.2006 - 12.2008
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
Master’s of Maritime Administration and Logistics - Financial Management, Operations Management Business Economica, Decision Analysis and Modeling, Marketing, Transportation Logistics, Intermodal Transportation, Maritime Transport Economics
Texas A&M University Galveston
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