Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Software
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Kennedy Wages

Charleston,SC
Kennedy Wages

Summary

Dynamic Business Manager with a proven track record in leading operations, driving growth, and enhancing customer experiences. Excels in client relations, strategic problem-solving, and process optimization to improve efficiency and results. Expertise in project management, customer engagement, and team development, with strong communication, analytical, and budget management skills. Passionate about optimizing performance, streamlining operations, and creating positive workplace environments.

Overview

9
years of professional experience

Work History

Free People

Store Manager
11.2023 - Current

Job overview

  • Increase store profitability by 17% in a fiscal year from $2.75 million to $3.3 million
  • Recruit, develop, and mentor a high-performing team of 20+ employees, fostering engagement, retention, and succession planning.
  • Manage financial aspects of store operations, including payroll budget, expense tracking, and shrinkage loss to maintain fiscal responsibility.
  • Analyze sales reports and KPIs to identify performance trends, customer insights, and maintain inventory to optimize daily operations
  • Lead store operations, driving sales through strategic planning, merchandising, and exceptional customer experiences.

Free People

Visual Manager
06.2020 - 11.2023

Job overview

  • Lead visual merchandising and display execution to enhance brand storytelling and customer experience.
  • Managed store operations, payroll, and inventory to drive efficiency and profitability, increasing sales by 71%
  • Analyzed sales data to identify trends and make informed decisions on product placement and display strategies.
  • Supported with hiring, onboarding, and talent retention to build a dynamic team of 20+ employees.
  • Trained and developed teams on visual standards, product placement, and selling strategies to increase foot traffic by 17%.

Free People

Key Holder
05.2018 - 05.2020

Job overview

  • Met sales targets consistently for each shift by positively engaging customers and delivering high levels of service, brining in 20% of monthly business.
  • Collaborated with the management team on implementing strategies to achieve store''s monthly sales targets.
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Managed store personnel by delegating tasks and supervising daily operations.
  • Trained and supervised new employees to apply best practices in customer service and store operations.

Free People

Stylist
05.2016 - 05.2018

Job overview

  • Worked closely with store management to set and achieve individual sales targets, contributing to overall team success.
  • Supported sales floor, cash wrap and back of house to catalyze daily operations.
  • Engaged customers with personalized interactions, offering product knowledge and styling advice.
  • Fostered a positive, inclusive work environment by collaborating with peers and leadership.

Education

University of Georgia
Athens, GA

Associate of Science from Fashion Merchandising
05-2018

Skills

  • Client Relations
  • Strategic Issue Resolution
  • Coaching and Development
  • Store Merchandising
  • Staff Recruitment
  • Sales Data Analysis

Software

Qlik

UGK Dimensons

ICIMS

Apriss

Timeline

Store Manager

Free People
11.2023 - Current

Visual Manager

Free People
06.2020 - 11.2023

Key Holder

Free People
05.2018 - 05.2020

Stylist

Free People
05.2016 - 05.2018

University of Georgia

Associate of Science from Fashion Merchandising
Kennedy Wages