Matthew Barabas
Johnstown,PA
Summary
Results-driven leader with extensive experience in the music education sector. Demonstrated success in implementing customer-centric strategies and evaluating market trends to optimize inventory management. Committed to enhancing operational efficiency and driving profitability.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
President
Volkwein's Music
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
07.2018 - 07.2026
- Directed strategic initiatives to enhance music education, resulting in increased instrument sales.
- Managed financial planning and budgeting to support sustainable business growth.
- Oversaw daily operations for retail location and online platforms to maximize efficiency.
- Implemented customer-centric strategies that improved satisfaction and loyalty.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable terms and strengthen partnerships.
- Evaluated market trends to guide product selection and optimize inventory management.
- Diminished regulatory risks by strict adherence to insurance and safety regulations.
General Manager
Volkwein's Music
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
06.2010 - 07.2018
- Oversaw daily operations of a music retail store and service center.
- Managed inventory levels to ensure product availability for customers.
- Developed staff training programs to enhance customer service skills.
- Coordinated marketing initiatives to promote musical instruments and services.
- Led team meetings to align staff on goals and key priorities.
- Fostered a positive work environment to enhance employee engagement and retention.
- Managed all aspects of daily business operations including budgeting, staffing, scheduling, inventory control, customer service and sales.
Store Manager
Volkwein's Music
Latrobe, Pennsylvania
06.2006 - 06.2010
- Managed daily store operations and ensured efficient staff performance.
- Trained and developed team members to enhance customer service skills.
- Oversaw inventory management and maintained optimal stock levels.
- Implemented visual merchandising strategies to improve product display.
- Scheduled staff shifts and coordinated employee coverage effectively.
- Recruited, trained and supervised new employees.
- Conducted daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures and cash handling.
Sales Associate
Volkwein's Music
Latrobe, Pennsylvania
08.2002 - 06.2006
- Assisted customers in selecting musical instruments and accessories.
- Demonstrated product features and benefits to enhance customer understanding.
- Managed inventory levels, ensuring stock availability for popular items.
- Processed sales transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems.
- Participated in promotional events to increase store visibility and customer engagement.
- Trained new team members in cash register operation, stock procedures, and customer services.
Education
High School Diploma -
Westmont-Hilltop High School
Johnstown, PA06-1989
Biology
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PATrumpet Performance
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PASkills
- Financial management
- Strategic planning
- Operations oversight
- Market analysis
- Vendor negotiation
- Customer relationship management
- Team leadership
Affiliations
- Trumpet Player, Johnstown Symphony Orchestra, 1998-2022
Trumpet Player, "Jazz In Your Face" Big Band, 1999-present
Trumpet Player, "Touch of Brass" Quartet, 1998-present
Trumpet Player, West Virginia Brass Quintet, 2010-present
Private Trumpet Instructor, 1995-present
Brass Chamber Ensemble Coach, Johnstown Symphony Youth Orchestra, 2024-present
Timeline
President
Volkwein's Music
07.2018 - 07.2026
General Manager
Volkwein's Music
06.2010 - 07.2018
Store Manager
Volkwein's Music
06.2006 - 06.2010
Sales Associate
Volkwein's Music
08.2002 - 06.2006
High School Diploma -
Westmont-Hilltop High School
Biology
University of Pittsburgh
Trumpet Performance
Carnegie Mellon University