Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Additional Experience
Timeline
Generic

Melissa Brooks

Grand Rapids,Michigan

Summary

Dynamic and versatile professional with experience in event coordination, product management, and entrepreneurial leadership. Proven ability to develop and execute business strategies, manage vendor relationships, and optimize workflow coordination. Strong background in consumer trends, pricing strategies, and database management. Adept at fostering community engagement through event planning, marketing, and guest relations. Passionate about creative problem-solving, strategic analysis, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Creator and Owner

Hippie Soul Mountain Co.
08.2020 - Current
  • Artisan small business owner responsible for designing, producing, marketing, and retailing unique jewelry, wall décor, and other handmade products.
  • Develops effective business strategies for selling and promoting products at art shows and as a wholesaler.
  • Co-managed the 2021 Teton Valley Art Market, overseeing vendor selection, marketing, and event logistics.

Event Coordinator & Team Lead

Patagonia
09.2019 - 08.2020
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, creating positive and impactful experiences for Patagonia customers.
  • Fostered community relationships by partnering with local non-profits to plan and execute store events.
  • Managed event logistics supported and trained sales associates, and promoted environmental activism aligned with Patagonia's initiatives.

Assistant Product Manager

Dick's Sporting Goods
12.2017 - 09.2019
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to drive product development strategies, sales growth, and market share for men's private brand apparel and accessories.
  • Ensured relevance, quality, and margin goals were met in the assortment by working closely with design teams and adhering to production calendars.
  • Managed sales reports, assortment line plan, style creation, and purchase order preparation for effective business performance analysis.

Sourcing Specialist

Meijer
11.2016 - 11.2017
  • Partnered with product development, merchandising, and Meijer Hong Kong sourcing to develop and execute sourcing strategies, achieving margin goals for youth private brand apparel.
  • Managed requests for quotes, cost negotiations, and key dates throughout the product development cycle to ensure timely program execution and delivery.

Merchandise Associate

Meijer
05.2012 - 11.2016
  • Implemented corporate and team strategies to manage 1500+ product life cycles, ensuring precision.
  • Managed advertising process, promotions, pricing, signage, and product maintenance. Assisted buyers in key assortment selection and planogramming. Analyzed weekly sales and ad performance for reporting.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Communications

Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI
12.2008

Additional Experience

The Walt Disney Company | Orlando, FL | 08/2007 - 01/2008 

  • Data Analyst Intern-Imagineering: Played a key role in implementing the initial Walt Disney World attraction inventory management system, which has since been adopted across all WDW parks and resorts. Excelled in managing field data and conducting meticulous research to ensure data integrity.
  • Character Performer: Represented The Walt Disney Company at the forefront, embodying iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, and Piglet. Demonstrated exceptional non-verbal communication skills, creating memorable and magical moments for guests from around the world.

ArtPrize | Grand Rapids, MI | 05/2011 - 02/2012

  • Event Producer Apprentice: Assisted in coordinating and executing 15 public events for ArtPrize 2011, including managing the nine Speaker Series events. Led efforts to double attendance for the ArtPrize ArtWalk through sponsorship coordination. Trained and managed volunteers for ArtPrize events, and acted as a hospitality contact for guests, showcasing strong logistics and coordination skills.

Timeline

Creator and Owner

Hippie Soul Mountain Co.
08.2020 - Current

Event Coordinator & Team Lead

Patagonia
09.2019 - 08.2020

Assistant Product Manager

Dick's Sporting Goods
12.2017 - 09.2019

Sourcing Specialist

Meijer
11.2016 - 11.2017

Merchandise Associate

Meijer
05.2012 - 11.2016

Bachelor of Science - Communications

Grand Valley State University
Melissa Brooks