Michael Barker
Summerville,SC
Summary
Big Box and Multi-Location Experienced Store Manager - 20 years Retail and 35 years Customer Service has been distinguished by accelerated advancement, achievements, awards and goal-surpassing performance to Plan and LY sales. Successful in both Startup and Turnaround Management Roles - have propelled multiple stores to a growing profit in sales and customer satisfaction district wide while simultaneously lowering Shrink and Staff Turnover to an all-time low. Initiated Multi-Store Management Program - with The Athlete's Foot, to help increase Operational Profitability and decrease Payroll Expenditures, also to enable inner management(additional assistant manager) growth. Comprehensive Background - entrusted in dealing with the most complex difficult customer service issues as a result of exceptional ability to promptly resolve concerns and satisfy customers. Leading all aspects of retail operations including P & L, Merchandising, Sales, Personnel, Payroll and Inventory Management. Extensive Retail Management Training and Coaching Associates to exceed Productivity and Sales Goals.
Overview
46
46
years of professional experience
Work History
Footwear Lead/Front End Lead Associate
Dick Sporting Goods
08.2019 - Current
- Improved team productivity by streamlining workflow processes and implementing efficient project management practices.
- Led cross-functional teams for successful project completion, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality results.
- Enhanced client satisfaction with effective communication, regular progress updates, and prompt resolution of concerns.
- Developed comprehensive training materials to onboard new team members quickly and efficiently.
- Analyzed data to identify trends and areas of improvement, informing strategic decision-making processes.
- Evaluated team member performance regularly, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
Assistant Store Manager
SEARS HOLDING COMPANY
05.2018 - 03.2019
- Responsible for Softlines and Jewelry
- Responsible for Inventory Process
- Boosted customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and addressing concerns promptly.
- Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.
- Streamlined inventory management with regular audits, accurate ordering, and efficient stock organization.
- Improved store operations by establishing clear communication channels between team members and implementing efficient scheduling practices.
- Showed a 10% increase to budget and 20% increase to LY
- (store closing due to logistics from chapter 11
- No other stores left in Knoxville/Chattanooga areas)
Softlines Assistant Store Manager
Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc
04.2014 - 04.2018
- Recognized as a Sales and Associate Leader
- Responsible for Apparel, Footwear and Front End
- Increase Sales and Productivity through Merchandising and Training
- Also responsible for stores on line ordering for customers.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by efficiently managing the softlines department and effectively addressing customer concerns.
- Streamlined inventory management processes for better product availability and reduced stock discrepancies.
- Optimized store performance by implementing effective merchandising strategies and visual displays.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving conflicts and addressing concerns in a timely manner.
Footwear Lead Associate
DICK'S SPORTING GOODS
10.2011 - 03.2014
- Recognized as one of the "rising stars" through providing Exceptional Customer Service, Coaching Associates to exceed Productivity Goals and building a growing Customer Base resulting in a sales gain
- Increased Sales through Coaching Associates on Providing Exceptional Customer Service, Product Knowledge, Maintaining Visual Standards, Inventory Control and Customer Retention.
- Improved team productivity by streamlining workflow processes and implementing efficient project management practices.
- Led cross-functional teams for successful project completion, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality results.
Store Manager in Training
Rite Aid
05.2012 - 10.2013
- Joined RITE AID - Dallas, NC
- Rite Aid to increase its Productivity and Profitability, through providing Exceptional Customer Service and Training of other Associates by Maintaining Visual Standards, Controlling Inventory and P & L, and increasing Customer Retention.
- Managed store financials, including budgeting, expense tracking, and accurate reporting to ensure profitability and sustainable growth.
- Enhanced staff productivity by providing thorough training, clear expectations, and consistent performance feedback.
- Oversaw daily store operations, ensuring smooth workflows and timely completion of tasks for optimal customer experience.
- Implemented loss prevention measures, reducing shrinkage rates and protecting company assets.
Operations Manager
MACY'S, INC.
02.2009 - 09.2011
- Responsible for Inventory process
- Reduced turnaround time for project completion through effective resource allocation and team management.
- Improved operational efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing cost-saving measures.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, resulting in better pricing and improved service quality.
- Implemented new inventory management system to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Spearheaded process improvements, resulting in increased productivity and reduced operational costs.
Front Counter Manager (PT)
CYPRESS LANES FAMILY FUN CENTER
01.2006 - 01.2011
- Recognized as a Customer Service Trainer and Program Developer to retain and build a growing Customer Base by providing Exceptional Customer Service Experience and developing programs to increase customer traffic
- Developed nightly programs to offset slow traffic trend times by providing fun and entertaining events for all ages and groups
- Provided outside marketing concepts to increase customer relations by building customer retention through providing entertainment events to Corporate Groups, Academic Institutions and Organizational.
- Streamlined front counter processes for improved workflow and increased employee productivity.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by efficiently managing front counter operations and addressing customer concerns promptly.
Sales Manager
MACY'S, INC.
01.2006 - 02.2009
- Promoted to Sales Manager of Men's, Kid's, Shoe Department and Total Home Store
- Assisted in managing a $12M, 120 employee, Big Box location; enforced sound Merchandising and Loss Prevention strategies; executed corporate programs, promotions and policies; and drove exceptional customer satisfaction, Coaching Associates Productivity and P & L results
- Excelled in building and motivating sales teams to earn double digit increases in the Shoe Department and increased sales (to plan and LY) in Men's, Kid's and Total Home Store, through Coaching Associates to exceed Productivity Goals and Strategic Merchandising.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
- Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
Multi-Store Manager
THE ATHLETE'S FOOT, INC.
01.2003 - 01.2006
- Promoted to oversee the startup and turnaround of daily operations for multiple district and regional store locations
- Career was distinguished by accelerated advancement, awards (including "Store Manager of the Year" for 2003 and 2004) and goal-surpassing performance-to-plan and LY
- Propelled a near worst-to-first turnaround of Stone Mountain and Lenox Square store locations
- Transforming two of the districts downward spiral in sales and highest shrinks in the region to #2/#3 in Sales and #1/#2 in Customer Satisfaction and lowest in shrink for the district; by overhauling systems, processes, training programs and personnel
- Corrected issues such as internal theft, lagging customer service and poor morale.
Store Manager
THE ATHLETE'S FOOT, INC.
01.2000 - 01.2003
- Promoted to oversee the startup and turnaround of daily operations for multiple district and regional store locations
- Career was distinguished by accelerated advancement, awards (including "Store Manager of the Year" for 2003 and 2004) and goal-surpassing performance-to-plan and LY
- Propelled a near worst-to-first turnaround of Stone Mountain and Lenox Square store locations
- Transforming two of the districts downward spiral in sales and highest shrinks in the region to #2/#3 in Sales and #1/#2 in Customer Satisfaction and lowest in shrink for the district; by overhauling systems, processes, training programs and personnel
- Corrected issues such as internal theft, lagging customer service and poor morale.
Assistant Store Manager
THE ATHLETE'S FOOT, INC.
01.1998 - 01.2000
- Promoted to oversee the startup and turnaround of daily operations for multiple district and regional store locations
- Career was distinguished by accelerated advancement, awards (including "Store Manager of the Year" for 2003 and 2004) and goal-surpassing performance-to-plan and LY
- Propelled a near worst-to-first turnaround of Stone Mountain and Lenox Square store locations
- Transforming two of the districts downward spiral in sales and highest shrinks in the region to #2/#3 in Sales and #1/#2 in Customer Satisfaction and lowest in shrink for the district; by overhauling systems, processes, training programs and personnel
- Corrected issues such as internal theft, lagging customer service and poor morale.
- Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.
- Boosted customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and addressing concerns promptly.
Tennis Professional
GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
01.1990 - 01.1998
- Excelled in promoting tennis programs for juniors and adults of all ages through providing private and group lessons, clinics and classes, team coaching and training, tournaments and round robins, player development ladders and other special events
- An 18 year career was distinguished by numerous awards and honors (Tennis Pro of the Year 1996)
- Hosted National, Sectional and State Junior, Adult, Wheelchair Championships and Special Olympics Events at various facilities.
- Developed athletes'' skills with customized coaching plans, resulting in enhanced game techniques.
- Improved player performance by implementing tailored training programs and drills.
Assistant Manager (PT)
YOUR SERVE RACQUET AND FITNESS SHOP
01.1995 - 01.1997
- Excelled in promoting sales through Exceptional Customer Service, Technical Product Knowledge and Merchandising
- Promoted customer retention through building customer satisfaction of continuous prompt service
- Certified Master Racquet Technician by the USRSA.
Tennis Club Director
COUNTRYSIDE TENNIS CENTER
01.1988 - 01.1990
- Created and managed a private tennis and recreational facility for a private investor in which provided 12 lighted tennis courts and clubhouse with pro shop, aerobics and workout rooms, swimming pool, nursery and snack break rooms
- Established membership drive to over 200 families and individuals and developed programs for tennis, fitness, swimming and social activities for all ages
- Recruited and managed Tennis Professionals for instructional programs and activities
- Established charity Pro-Am events to benefit local children's charities, by inviting local professional athletes and television celebrities to team up with member's participation.
- Enhanced club membership by implementing innovative marketing strategies and hosting engaging events.
- Developed comprehensive budget plans for optimal resource allocation, maintaining financial stability and growth.
Tennis Professional
GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
01.1978 - 01.1988
- Excelled in promoting tennis programs for juniors and adults of all ages through providing private and group lessons, clinics and classes, team coaching and training, tournaments and round robins, player development ladders and other special events
- An 18 year career was distinguished by numerous awards and honors (Tennis Pro of the Year 1996)
- Hosted National, Sectional and State Junior, Adult, Wheelchair Championships and Special Olympics Events at various facilities.
- Improved player performance by implementing tailored training programs and drills.
- Developed athletes'' skills with customized coaching plans, resulting in enhanced game techniques.
- Managed tennis tournaments, ensuring a smooth experience for all participants.
- Strengthened relationships with local schools to develop youth tennis programs, fostering interest in the sport among younger generations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management
GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
Statesboro, GA01.1988
Associate of Applied Science - Computer And Information Sciences
GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (Georgia Tech)
Atlanta, GA01.1983
Skills
- Multiple Retail Store Operations
- P & L Management
- Inventory Management
- Exceptional Customer Service
- Budget & Cost Control
- Merchandising Strategies
- Coaching & Teambuilding
- Shrink Reduction
- Loss Prevention Control
- MIC of Charity & Special Event
- Product Knowledge
- POS Expertise
Timeline
Footwear Lead/Front End Lead Associate
Dick Sporting Goods
08.2019 - Current
Assistant Store Manager
SEARS HOLDING COMPANY
05.2018 - 03.2019
Softlines Assistant Store Manager
Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc
04.2014 - 04.2018
Store Manager in Training
Rite Aid
05.2012 - 10.2013
Footwear Lead Associate
DICK'S SPORTING GOODS
10.2011 - 03.2014
Operations Manager
MACY'S, INC.
02.2009 - 09.2011
Sales Manager
MACY'S, INC.
01.2006 - 02.2009
Front Counter Manager (PT)
CYPRESS LANES FAMILY FUN CENTER
01.2006 - 01.2011
Multi-Store Manager
THE ATHLETE'S FOOT, INC.
01.2003 - 01.2006
Store Manager
THE ATHLETE'S FOOT, INC.
01.2000 - 01.2003
Assistant Store Manager
THE ATHLETE'S FOOT, INC.
01.1998 - 01.2000
Assistant Manager (PT)
YOUR SERVE RACQUET AND FITNESS SHOP
01.1995 - 01.1997
Tennis Professional
GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
01.1990 - 01.1998
Tennis Club Director
COUNTRYSIDE TENNIS CENTER
01.1988 - 01.1990
Tennis Professional
GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
01.1978 - 01.1988
Bachelor of Science - Recreation Management
GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
Associate of Applied Science - Computer And Information Sciences
GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (Georgia Tech)