Hi, I’m
Linnley Smith
Senior Buyer
Dallas,TX
Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.
Winston S. Churchill
Summary
Highly skilled Merchandising professional with a proven track record in data analysis, strategic sourcing, and vendor relationship management. Expertise in driving business growth within both perishable and non-perishable categories. Adept at leading cross-functional teams through the sourcing process, demonstrating strong negotiation skills and an in-depth understanding of the Total Cost of Ownership methodology. Known for effective communication and relationship-building, I excel in coaching and training direct reports to ensure optimal team performance. Eager to contribute through my strategic approach, negotiation prowess, and commitment to meeting organizational goals
Overview
12
years of professional experience
7
years of post-secondary education
Work History
US FoodsDallas, TX
Senior Buyer
11.2016 - Current
Job overview
- Proficient in analyzing data to identify product opportunities and drive business growth within perishable and non-perishable categories.
- Facilitated strategic negotiations with suppliers and vendors, leveraging data analysis and comprehensive market research to ensure alignment with overarching business goals and objectives.
- Successfully conducted assortment analysis and implemented strategic initiatives, resulting in a 15% increase in category and volume growth for perishable programs.
- Extensive knowledge of buying and purchasing dynamics, with the ability to use this knowledge to inform consumer and shopper research to make targeted business recommendations
- Demonstrated expertise in leveraging Blue Yonder/JDA for forecasting, procurement, and reporting.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams and vendors to meet customer needs and respond to market demands, utilizing strong communication and relationship-building skills.
US FoodsGarland, Texas
Replenishment Lead
08.2015 - 11.2016
Job overview
- Daily management of the replenishment team to exceed KPI results and provide seamless supply continuity for our customers.
- Coached and mentored 11 local buyers to challenge the status quo and promote a positive work environment.
- Worked with Category Managers to support Corporate and Regional initiatives to drive sales, manage costs, and reduce slow and dead inventory.
- Act as communicator and liaison between divisional staff, other divisions, and Regional and Corporate associates.
- Established and implemented continuous review of excessive and obsolete inventory and inventory cost changes among buyers.
Whole Foods Market Addison, Texas
Specialty Team Leader
09.2011 - 07.2015
Job overview
- Managed Specialty department, including cheese, coffee, tea, chocolate, beer and wine products as well as both coffee/juice bar and beer/wine bar venues.
- Support positive team dynamics and be the example of servant leadership.
- Researched current and past business performance using online systems and available reporting to accurately forecast performance.
- Aided sub-team buyers in assortment and promotional planning.
- Trained buyers and associate management on fiscal reporting and purchasing operations.
- Built purchasing systems to monitor par levels, days on hand and movement/shrink to assist buyers in efficient and effective purchasing.
Education
The University of Texas At DallasRichardson, TX
MBA
08.2019 - 12.2022
The University of Texas At DallasRichardson, TX
Master of Science from Marketing
08.2019 - 12.2022
University of North Texas
Bachelor of Arts from History & Art History
2009
Skills
- Inventory management and cost analysis
- Competitive sourcing
- Pricing negotiations
- Forecasting and planning
- Experience with purchasing software
- Vendor relations
- Merchandising operations
- Blue Yonder/JDA expertise
- PowerBI, Tableau, Sigma reporting expertise
- Excellent written and verbal communicator
- Strong, organized multi-tasking skills with excellent follow-though
- Self directed and solution-oriented
Availability
See my work availability
Not Available
Available
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
The University of Texas At Dallas
MBA
08.2019 - 12.2022
The University of Texas At Dallas
Master of Science from Marketing
08.2019 - 12.2022
Senior Buyer
US Foods
11.2016 - Current
Replenishment Lead
US Foods
08.2015 - 11.2016
Specialty Team Leader
Whole Foods Market
09.2011 - 07.2015
University of North Texas
Bachelor of Arts from History & Art History
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