Lauren Smith
Wilmington,NC
Summary
Experienced MBA professional specialized in retail, merchandising, business development, strategy, operations, and marketing. Collaborative leader with a proven track record in leading cross-functional teams through complex environments. Skilled at implementing process improvements to drive efficiency and productivity.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President of Client Services
Advantage Solutions
Wilmington, NC
05.2024 - Current
- Developed and executed strategic plans to support the organization's vision.
- Oversaw financial operations for business units with $36M annual revenue by performing tasks such as budgeting, forecasting and analysis.
- Developed strong customer relationships, implemented targeted sales strategies and achieved significant new business growth.
- Managed a team of over 40 individuals to surpass set goals while fostering a positive culture and aiding in their career advancement.
Director Client Services and Operations
Advantage Solutions
Wilmington, NC
09.2022 - 05.2024
- Responsible for the day-to-day business operations of the Target in-store sampling program.
- Cultivated culture of continuous improvement and innovation to improve efficiency and drive results.
- Led a cross-functional team to oversee the development of a software application, the creation of a live data feed between Target and Advantage, and the development of Power BI reporting.
Associate Director Client Services
Advantage Solutions
Wilmington, NC
12.2021 - 09.2022
- Managed existing and cultivated new client relationships by identifying risk and growth opportunities.
- Developed a strong understanding of Advantage's complex organizational structure and diversified service offerings to create integrated marketing proposals for clients.
- Trained, mentored, and developed the client services team to instill key skills and knowledge required to execute business strategies and deliver maximum customer satisfaction, in order to maintain profitability.
Marketing Consultant
Advantage Solutions
Wilmington, NC
11.2016 - 12.2021
- Consulted with client on business needs and developed innovative, high-impact proposals.
- Advised client on compliance and best practices for nationwide adult beverage sampling programs.
- Managed procurement of all supplies and equipment for the Whole Foods Market in-store sampling program.
Business Development Manager
Interactions Marketing
San Diego, CA
06.2016 - 11.2016
- Established relationships with key decision-makers within the customer's organization to promote growth and retention.
- Researched and identified opportunities for account growth, account penetration, and market expansion.
- Negotiated, prepared, and signed contracts with clients for over $2MM in annual revenue.
Account Executive
Interactions Marketing
San Diego, CA
09.2014 - 06.2016
- Utilized CPG and retail experience to help companies build brands that are connected to their customers.
- Worked to develop marketing plans, oversee the implementation of current initiatives, and effectively manage the financial budget of all programs.
- Consistently chosen to manage special projects for senior leadership based upon strengths in strategy development, leadership, and project management.
Buyer, Meat Category
Wegmans Food Markets, Inc
Rochester, NY
01.2013 - 09.2014
- Forecasted chain-wide product needs by understanding customer trends and shopping behaviors.
- Managed $1MM average daily inventory to support $50MM in monthly sales while consistently lowering days of supply
- Worked collaboratively with Merchandising to support new product launches and special projects.
Education
MBA - Marketing
Saint John Fisher College
Rochester, NY05.2014
BBA - Management
Binghamton University
Binghamton, NY05.2012
Skills
- Retail Merchandising
- Operational Management
- Organizational Planning
- Team Leadership
- Financial Oversight
- Client Relationship Building
- Business Development
- Experiential Marketing
- Strategic Development
- Project Management
- Continuous Improvement Initiatives
- Creative Problem Solving
- Contract Negotiation
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Vice President of Client Services
Advantage Solutions
05.2024 - Current
Director Client Services and Operations
Advantage Solutions
09.2022 - 05.2024
Associate Director Client Services
Advantage Solutions
12.2021 - 09.2022
Marketing Consultant
Advantage Solutions
11.2016 - 12.2021
Business Development Manager
Interactions Marketing
06.2016 - 11.2016
Account Executive
Interactions Marketing
09.2014 - 06.2016
Buyer, Meat Category
Wegmans Food Markets, Inc
01.2013 - 09.2014
MBA - Marketing
Saint John Fisher College
BBA - Management
Binghamton University
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