Kelsi Oquendo
Summary
Experienced with developing and executing merchandising plans to drive sales and profitability. Utilizes analytical skills to interpret market data and make informed decisions. Track record of effective team management and collaboration, ensuring seamless operations and goal achievement.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Merchandising Manager
Direct Textile Store
01.2021 - Current
- Oversee daily website operations, ensuring accurate product presentation, functionality, and issue resolution to maintain optimal user experience.
- Manage end-to-end product setup, validating pricing, descriptions, categorization, and data accuracy prior to publication.
- Monitor site performance and proactively identify, troubleshoot, and resolve merchandising or system-related issues.
- Lead vendor negotiations, securing competitive pricing and favorable terms to protect margins and improve profitability.
- Conduct market research to identify and onboard new vendors and product lines aligned with business growth strategy.
- Own website updates and merchandising changes, coordinating enhancements, launches, and system adjustments.
- Manage inventory levels across all product categories, ensuring accurate stock availability and minimizing stockouts or overages.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, finance, and vendors to maintain data integrity and supply chain efficiency.
- Leverage sales insights to optimize product placement, pricing strategies, and promotional efforts to maximize revenue and conversion rates.
Payroll Specialist
Endeavor Air
Minneapolis, MN
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Processed bi-weekly payroll for 1,000+ employees using Workday and Kronos, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Processed bonuses, incentives, premiums, union rules, and differential pay structures.
- Audited time entry, earnings codes, and pay calculations to ensure accurate time calculations and compliance.
- Set up new hire information including direct deposits, W4s, employee info, etc.
- Partnered with HR and Finance to resolve discrepancies related to absence plans, eligibility, and pay configurations.
- Supported system testing, validation, and audit initiatives to ensure configuration accuracy.
- Track vacation, sick, and FMLA
- Reviewed Eligibility Rules, accrual tracking, and payroll-related configuration logic.
- Assisted with compliance documentation and regulatory audits.
- Served as primary contact for pay-related inquiries, demonstrating strong written and oral communication skills and a commitment to exceptional customer service.
HR Intern / Team Member
Target Corporation
Minneapolis, MN
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Supported onboarding and HR process implementation activities.
- Maintained compliant employee data and documentation.
- Assisted with benefits eligibility validation and employee support.
- Responded to inquiries with professionalism, reinforcing client collaboration and service excellence.
- Set up new hire information
- Conduct onboarding presentations for new hires
- Assist in employee-related questions or concerns.
Education
Bachelor - Business Management
St. Cloud State University
01-2017
Skills
- Merchandise selection
- Merchandise presentation
- Staff supervision
- Inventory management
- Vendor communications
- Pricing strategy
- E-commerce merchandising
- Competitive analysis
- Monitoring inventory
- Merchandise planning
- Sales trend analysis
- Promotional planning
- Category management
Timeline
Merchandising Manager
Direct Textile Store
01.2021 - Current
Payroll Specialist
Endeavor Air
01.2018 - 01.2021
HR Intern / Team Member
Target Corporation
01.2017 - 01.2018
Bachelor - Business Management
St. Cloud State University