Jill Waterman
Conway
Summary
Professional and adaptable team player with extensive experience in omni-channel merchandising and vendor relations. Proven track record in developing effective promotional campaigns and product assortments that drive sales growth and align with the vision of leadership. Positive, "can-do" attitude.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Divisional Merchandise Manager; Off Price
Dover Saddlery
Littleton MA
03.2023 - Current
- Developed and implemented seasonal merchandising strategies to enhance product visibility and sales.
- Collaborated with suppliers to negotiate pricing and secure promotional opportunities for key product lines.
- Managed product assortments by evaluating performance metrics and adjusting offerings based on market trends.
- Cultivated an environment of open communication within the team, encouraging feedback and idea sharing for continuous improvement.
- Collaborated with marketing teams to develop targeted promotional campaigns that drove customer traffic and sales growth.
- Coordinated successful product launches that contributed significantly to annual sales targets and revenue growth objectives.
- Developed strong vendor relationships through clear communication, negotiation, and collaboration to drive business success.
- Negotiated pricing and terms with vendors to secure best value for company.
- Cultivated strong relationships with vendors to maintain and improve levels of customer service.
- Researched and evaluated potential suppliers to determine best fits for company needs and to identify cost savings opportunities.
General Merchandise Manager/Director of Merchandising
Dover Saddlery
Littleton, MA
07.2017 - 03.2023
- Led Team of Merchants in Product Development, Assortment Selection and Vendor Relations.
- Traveled internationally and domestically for product concepting and development, including India, Portugal, Taiwan, Germany.
- Collaborated heavily with Executive, Marketing and Catalog Departments to strategize and execute visions and goals.
- Worked closely with Inventory and Planning teams to align with budgeting obligations.
- Attended Trade Shows, organized and led Top to Top Vendor Meetings
- Developed strategic merchandising plans to increase product visibility and drive sales growth.
- Mentored and trained team members on best practices in merchandising and customer service excellence.
General Manager
Dressage Extensions
Moorpark, CA
11.2013 - 07.2017
- Led operational strategies to enhance efficiency across all departments.
- Tripled Retail Sales in 1.5 years
- Developed and implemented training programs for staff development and performance improvement.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing overhead costs significantly.
- Spearheaded business ownership transition (Dover Saddlery bought Dressage Extensions)
- Managed all purchasing and vendor relations.
- Attended trade shows; responsible for bringing LeMieux and Kastel Denmark brands to high demand product positions.
- Oversaw marketing initiatives to increase brand visibility and customer engagement.
- Worked closely with USDF to engage the Dressage Community
General Manager
Springfield Leather Company
Springfield MO
07.2007 - 11.2013
- Worked closely with owner Kevin Hopkins to triple business revenues.
- Developed Amazon program.
- Idealized and executed in house production programs.
- Negotiated and bought job lots.
- Fostered a collaborative work environment, enhancing team productivity and morale.
- Managed staff in full, including hiring employee reviews, training, schedules, separations.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
- Established comprehensive employee training programs to develop skills, improve productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
- Directed comprehensive sales efforts, sales ideas and programs.
- Maximized operational excellence mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
- Championed continuous improvement initiatives that enhanced operational performance across all departments.
- Fostered culture of continuous improvement, introducing regular review sessions that boosted team performance and morale.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Agricultural Business
Missouri State University
Springfield, MOSkills
- Team Support, Guidance and Growth Management
- Brand and Product Development
- Project Management
- Vendor Negotiations and Relations
- Marketing Alliances for Direct, Retail and Catalog Segmentations
- Merchandising to the Vision of Leadership Teams
- Strong Verbal and Written Communication
- Problem Resolution
- Supply Chain Navigation and Management
Timeline
Divisional Merchandise Manager; Off Price
Dover Saddlery
03.2023 - Current
General Merchandise Manager/Director of Merchandising
Dover Saddlery
07.2017 - 03.2023
General Manager
Dressage Extensions
11.2013 - 07.2017
General Manager
Springfield Leather Company
07.2007 - 11.2013
Bachelor of Science - Agricultural Business
Missouri State University