Jennifer Cruz

Lead and oversee the operations of a high-end residential interior design firm and store front. Responsible for managing and guiding the design and sales team, ensuring exceptional quality and customer satisfaction, and driving the growth and success of our studio & store.

• Work with principal to assign and delegate projects, establish deadlines, and ensure efficient resource allocation.
• Provide guidance and support to the team and ensuring adherence to project requirements and timelines.
• Oversee the consistency in implementation of our design processes and operation from conception to completion, ensuring the highest quality standards.
• Monitor project progress, resolve any issues that arise, and ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Build and nurture relationships with new and existing clients to understand their needs and exceed their expectations.
• Act as the primary point of contact for key clients, ensuring exceptional service and client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.
• Achieved cost-savings by developing functional solutions to problems.
• Created policies and procedures for improved workflow processes.
• Resolved customer service issues in a timely manner while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Oversaw the implementation of new technology solutions designed to streamline processes.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the retail store, ensuring a welcoming and customer-centered environment.
• Lead, motivate, and train retail staff to deliver exceptional customer service and meet sales targets.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive buying plan aligned with the overall business strategy
• Create, plan with actionable steps to achieve new sales and earnings goals
• Design marketing and advertising to extend customer outreach.
• Maintain a deep understanding of all products and services to effectively assist customers and drive sales.
• Analyze sales data and trends to make informed decisions, implementing strategies to maximize sales and profitability.
• Maintaining storefront appearance, records of inventory, and updating pricing.
• Organize and execute trunk shows, promotional events, sales, and special offers to drive foot traffic and boost sales
• Social media content creation by taking photos, organizing promotions, and maintaining content schedules
• Curate an assortment of products align with the brand vision and aesthetic

As Sale Account Manager I managed a portfolio of $50 million in wholesale utility bedding sales. Retailers included: Dollar General, Family Dollar, Belk, Tuesday Morning, Bealls, Bealls Outlet. Assisted the VP of Sales with Ross, Homegoods, Marmax Group and Burlington (over $200 million in wholesales sales)

• Researched and communicated competitive activity to influence marketing plans and sales tactics.
• Coordinated with other departments regarding order status updates and delivery schedules.
• Improved profit margins by effectively managing expenses, budget and overhead, increasing closings and optimizing product turns.
• Ensured compliance with company policies, procedures, and industry regulations related to sales operations.
• Liaised between customers and sales teams to deliver successful solutions according to customer needs.
• Monitored market conditions, product innovations and competitor activity and adjusted account sales approach to address latest market developments.
• Built sales forecasts and schedules to reflect desired productivity targets.
• Collaborated with marketing team to design promotional materials for products and services being sold.
• Built strong relationships with clients by providing exceptional customer service.
• Formulated trusted relationships with key accounts.
• Analyzed business and sales targets using critical problem-solving skills.
• Tracked and analyzed key quantitative metrics and business trends relating to clients and partners.

Managed a portfolio of more than $17 million in wholesale fashion accessory sales for independent rep group. National retailers have included Macy’s, Belk, Chico’s, DSW, Cato, Versona, Charming Charlie, Steinmart & Shoe Carnival.

• Maintained well-stocked and organized sales floor with latest merchandise to drive sustained sales revenue.
• Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and developments in order to better serve clients' needs.
• Increased profitability and revenue by generating $17 million in wholesale sales.
• Established, documented and implemented account management processes and procedures.
• Supervised junior staff members by providing guidance on how best to meet client objectives.
• Identified customer needs by asking questions and advising on best solutions.
• Developed strategies for increasing sales volume through existing clients as well as new ones.
• Formulated plans to expand business operations and grow overall territory and client base.
• Prepared presentations for clients regarding new products or services offered.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive successful product launches.
• Researched and secured new accounts within assigned territory to increase sales and profitability.
• Tracked sales data in order to identify areas of improvement or success.
• Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
• Maintained and expanded relationships with clients by meeting, reviewing, and proposing solutions/strategies that aid in achieving business objectives and maximize sales

As Account Executive I built and maintained $10 million in annual sales volume with mid-tier, specialty and off-price accounts with a key focus on Ross & TJ Maxx/Marshalls. As operations manager I reported directly to the president. I oversaw the warehouse, production managers, and sales support.