Kristen Watson
Portsmouth
Summary
Retail and service leader with 16+ years of experience in visual merchandising, customer service, and team management. Recognized for elevating store presentation standards, driving sales through compelling displays, and developing high-performing teams. Skilled in operational excellence, inventory management, and strategic planning. Seeking to contribute expertise in merchandising and leadership as an Assistant Visual Merchandise Manager.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Service Coordinator
Haffners Energy
04.2023 - Current
- Oversee service activities across multiple locations, ensuring operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Develop and manage service strategies focused on scheduling, routing, and performance metrics.
- Lead workforce planning and organizational development to support anticipated growth.
- Contribute to short- and long-term strategic planning for the Service and Installation Department.
Service Associate I
Eastern Bank
08.2021 - 04.2023
- Delivered customer service across teller and platform sales functions.
- Assisted clients with transactions, account services, and product recommendations.
- Maintained cash handling accuracy while supporting branch sales performance.
- Built strong customer relationships through knowledgeable guidance and personalized solutions.
Retail Sales Manager / Merchandising Service Coordinator
Ulta Beauty
01.2019 - 02.2021
- Directed merchandising execution aligned with Ulta’s brand standards, ensuring visually appealing and customer-focused displays.
- Supervised and trained task associates, fostering a culture of operational excellence and teamwork.
- Managed shipment processes, physical inventory, and stock organization to maximize product accessibility.
- Partnered with leadership to implement seasonal floor sets and promotional displays that drove top-line sales growth.
Assistant Store Manager
Bath & Body Works
10.2014 - 02.2019
- Directed daily store operations with emphasis on merchandising, customer experience, and staff development.
- Coached associates on product presentation and upselling techniques to increase sales.
- Oversaw floor set changes and ensured displays reflected brand guidelines and seasonal campaigns.
- Recruited, hired, and retained retail talent while fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
Store Manager
Soma
07.2013 - 10.2014
- Managed a team of 10 associates, overseeing merchandising, store appearance, and customer service standards.
- Ranked #3 in store volume and growth during opening year out of 35 locations.
- Directed visual merchandising for new store openings, including St. Simons Island, GA.
- Selected to train new Store Managers and staff on merchandising and operational best practices.
Assistant Store Manager
Soma
01.2011 - 07.2013
- Supported daily operations with focus on merchandising execution and customer satisfaction.
- Coordinated floor sets, signage, and product placement to enhance store presentation.
- Selected to participate in new store openings (Orlando and Vero) and contribute to company training materials.
Sales Associate / Customer Sales Lead
Victoria’s Secret
10.2005 - 01.2010
- Delivered exceptional customer service while supporting merchandising and floor set execution.
- Trained new hires on sales floor standards and register operations.
- Served as Holiday Key Holder and Back Stockroom Lead, managing product flow and team performance.
- Assisted with new store openings, ensuring brand-consistent visual presentation.
Education
High School Diploma -
Forest High School
Ocala, FL01.2005
Skills
- Visual merchandising & display execution
- Team leadership & staff development
- Inventory management & stock presentation
- Customer engagement & rapport building
- Loss prevention & compliance
- Cash handling accuracy
- Strategic service planning & workforce development
Timeline
Service Coordinator
Haffners Energy
04.2023 - Current
Service Associate I
Eastern Bank
08.2021 - 04.2023
Retail Sales Manager / Merchandising Service Coordinator
Ulta Beauty
01.2019 - 02.2021
Assistant Store Manager
Bath & Body Works
10.2014 - 02.2019
Store Manager
Soma
07.2013 - 10.2014
Assistant Store Manager
Soma
01.2011 - 07.2013
Sales Associate / Customer Sales Lead
Victoria’s Secret
10.2005 - 01.2010
High School Diploma -
Forest High School