Lance Gerlach
Clemmons,North Carolina
Summary
Accomplished executive with over 12 years at the helm of companies like American Dairy Goat Association and Championship Caliber Fundraising, showcasing expertise in strategic sourcing and planning. Proven track record in driving supply chain optimization and developing category strategies, resulting in significant revenue growth and enhanced operational efficiency. Demonstrates exceptional leadership and demand forecasting skills, ensuring organizational success and sustainability.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Category Manager
Merchants Distributors, LLC
09.2022 - Current
- In charge of category strategies and purchasing for Pasta, Pasta Sauce, boxed dinners, microwaveable dinners section of center store. Also in charge of the candy category and all events involving candy in the category.
- Developed detailed sales forecasts based on historical data, allowing for proactive inventory management decisions.
Executive Director
American Dairy Goat Association
03.2021 - 09.2022
- In charge of 25,000 membership registry, with complete P&L responsibilities.
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Guided staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Forge strong relationships with board members, providing regular updates on organizational progress and soliciting their expertise when needed.
Sr. Field Supervisor
PET Dairy
02.2016 - 03.2021
- Oversaw commercial sales team for VA, NC, SC, MD territories.
- Liaison between 2 milk plants, operations, logistics, and leadership
- Branch Manager for the Raleigh NC branch, overseeing DSD deliveries to over 400 customers.
President/Owner
Championship Caliber Fundraising
01.2007 - 02.2016
- Ownership and management of P&L and sales for fundraising company. Drove millions of dollars of revenue for non-profit organizations for operational income
- Managed sales employees, operational 3rd party companies, and logistical opportunities on a daily basis
- Hired and managed employees to maximize productivity while training staff on best practices and protocols.
Key Account Manager
Reiter Dairy
03.2004 - 03.2007
- Built Reiter brand Ice Cream line from inception all the way through store distribution
- Key account calls included Wal-Mart, Kroger, Giant Eagle, Tops/Giant, Dollar General, Meijer
- Oversaw frozen P&L, distribution, pricing and sales for Reiter line
Territory Manager - Sales and Service
United Dairy Famers Inc.
03.1999 - 03.2004
- Led 15 person sales team for Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Indiana. Drove DSD execution as well as led cross-functional execution with plant, logistics, and sales
Education
Business Management / Communications
The Ohio State University
ColumbusSkills
- 12 years of leading companies with complete P&L responsibilities
- Category development
- Supply Chain Optimization
- Strategic Sourcing
- Key Account Management
- Promotional planning
- Demand forecasting
- Pricing Strategies
Certification
- I am a certified baseball and volleyball umpire/referee for both OHSAA and NCAA athletics, with 20+ years of officiating, 2 state tournament recognitions, and multiple local awards.
Timeline
Category Manager
Merchants Distributors, LLC
09.2022 - Current
Executive Director
American Dairy Goat Association
03.2021 - 09.2022
Sr. Field Supervisor
PET Dairy
02.2016 - 03.2021
President/Owner
Championship Caliber Fundraising
01.2007 - 02.2016
Key Account Manager
Reiter Dairy
03.2004 - 03.2007
Territory Manager - Sales and Service
United Dairy Famers Inc.
03.1999 - 03.2004
Business Management / Communications
The Ohio State University
- I am a certified baseball and volleyball umpire/referee for both OHSAA and NCAA athletics, with 20+ years of officiating, 2 state tournament recognitions, and multiple local awards.
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