Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Karen Watkins

Owings Mills,MD

Summary

Performance-oriented Sales Leader offering exceptional record of achievement over 15year career. Tenacious manager with strategic and analytical approach to solving problems, and accomplishing profit targets. Talented in identifying and capitalizing on emerging market trends and revenue opportunities. Skilled in learning and adapting to changing environment's in competitive landscapes.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

District Sales Manager

Joann Fabrics
05.2023 - Current
  • Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
  • Assessed each location's individual and team performances, analyzing data trends to determine best methods to improve sales results.
  • Devised strategies for retaining accounts, delivering polished sales presentations and promoting brands and products.
  • Worked diligently with dealers and management teams to forge lasting relationships and assist in solving unique business problems.
  • Resolved complex problems impacting sales management by implementing cost-effective strategies.
  • Exceeded sales quotas and increased profitability through effective sales strategy and business planning.
  • Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
  • Achieved established KPI for company, regional team and individual performance through teamwork and focus on customers.
  • Coached and promoted high-achieving sales and account management employees to fill leadership positions with qualified staff and boost company growth.
  • Increased profit margins by effectively controlling budget and overhead and optimizing product turns.

District Sales Manager

Claires
02.2018 - 05.2023
  • Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
  • Assessed each location's individual and team performances, analyzing data trends to determine best methods to improve sales results.
  • Devised strategies for retaining accounts, delivering polished sales presentations and promoting brands and products.
  • Worked diligently with dealers and management teams to forge lasting relationships and assist in solving unique business problems.
  • Resolved complex problems impacting sales management by implementing cost-effective strategies.
  • Exceeded sales quotas and increased profitability through effective sales strategy and business planning.
  • Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
  • Achieved established KPI for company, regional team and individual performance through teamwork and focus on customers.
  • Coached and promoted high-achieving sales and account management employees to fill leadership positions with qualified staff and boost company growth.
  • Grew YTD sales 27% by consistently meeting and exceeding quotas

Multi-Store Manager

Claires Stores Inc
02.2012 - 02.2016
  • Raised property accuracy and accountability by creating new automated tracking method.
  • Exceeded sales goals and accomplished business objectives by inspiring staff and promoting target products.
  • Optimized store displays and appearance via strategic merchandising.
  • Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
  • Managed store organization, maintenance, and purchasing functions.
  • Coached employees and trained on methods for handling various aspects of sales, complicated issues, and difficult customers.
  • Managed inventory control processes to restore back stock, control costs, and maintain sales floor levels to meet customer needs.
  • Trained team members in successful strategies to meet operational and sales targets.
  • Mentored team members to enhance professional development and accountability in workplace.
  • Recruited and retained top talent, with focus on completing timely performance evaluations, providing positive feedback, and rewarding superior performance.
  • Established and optimized schedules to keep coverage and service in line with forecasted demands.

Education

Certified A+/Network+ - Information Technology

Train Ace
Greenbelt, MD
03.2018

Skills

  • Profit/Loss
  • Regional Sales and Support
  • Revenue Growth
  • Product Allocation
  • Operational Efficiency
  • Microsoft Office, Excel, Salesforce, Workday
  • Strategic Planning

Timeline

District Sales Manager

Joann Fabrics
05.2023 - Current

District Sales Manager

Claires
02.2018 - 05.2023

Multi-Store Manager

Claires Stores Inc
02.2012 - 02.2016

Certified A+/Network+ - Information Technology

Train Ace
Karen Watkins