Michael T. Dickert
Los Angeles,CA
Summary
Experienced gemologist with over 25 years’ experience in various aspects of the jewelry industry including but not limited to sales, production, design, manufacturing, operations, etc. Seeking a new opportunity to apply leadership, strategic planning, quality control, and creative thinking skills.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Jewelry Production
VRAM Jewelry
04.2023 - Current
- Oversee manufacturing process, from design to delivery
- Ensuring quality control measures to meet highest standards
- Maintaining production schedules and efficiency
- Effectively coordinating and communicating with designers, suppliers, and retail customers
- Managing staff
Production Manager
Concierge Diamonds, Inc.
11.2021 - 07.2022
- Managed, coordinated, and communicated with outsourced contractors, designers, and sales representatives
- Implemented quality control measures to meet high standards
- Ensured production process to enhance operational efficiency
Custom design/Production Manager
MARS Jewelry
03.2017 - 02.2020
- Oversaw and executed the complete design process for all custom jewelry, from design to delivery
- Worked alongside retail store owners to customize and create jewelry as per consumer directions
- Implemented quality control measures to ensure high standards in the final inspection of custom-made jewelry
- Collaborated with clients to guarantee the highest level of satisfaction
Trade Show Director
Allison Kaufman
05.2014 - 09.2016
- Handled everyday activities covering multiple roles.
- Oversaw event preparation and logistical arrangements for trade shows.
- Handled multiple prestigious events, such as Luxury/JCK Las Vegas ,RJO and IJO shows.
- Oversaw all aspects from selecting and merchandising display cases . Coordinated all logistics utiliziing armored transport to and from shows
- General sales at shows and in office sales to retail customers
- Partnered with FOCUS group customers to streamline inventory management and drive sales by selecting appropriate merchandise.
- Directed shipping and logistics operations to serve retail clientele.
- Managed order intake and processing regularly.
- Supported national sales reps by providing necessary resources for customer satisfaction.
- Supported Marketing Department by preparing promotional materials for customers.
Head of Production /Operations Manager
Erica Courtney Inc.
03.2011 - 03.2014
- Oversaw all production aspects including quality control and jewelry inspection.
- Managed factory staff to maintain high-quality standards.
- Oversaw procurement and evaluation of stones needed for production.
- Ensured adequate stock through inventory tracking and timely reordering.
- Oversaw pricing and inventory of jewelry collections.
- Coordinated the handling and shipping of products to wholesale clientele for retail sales.
- Directed end-to-end logistics processes for enhanced operational efficiency.
- Managed retail trunk show logistics, ensuring effective setup of jewelry in various locations.
- Guided store personnel in selling techniques after educating them on gemstones and manufacturing processes.
- Working in store with clients to sell and educate retail consumers on high end jewelry
- Attended jewelry tradeshows to promote product line and attract new retail accounts.
- Negotiated exceptional deals on gemstone purchases during international travels.
- Enhanced quality control protocols, resulting in fewer defects and improved customer satisfaction levels.
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining stringent adherence to quality standards and deadlines requirements.
- Implemented cost-saving measures that led to significant reductions in operational expenses without affecting product quality or delivery timelines.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of raw materials, keeping production on schedule and within budget constraints.
- Reviewed work for quality and compliance with company standards and design specifications.
- Built relationships with customers and managed accounts to drive revenue and profit.
Shop Manager/Sales
Universal Jewelers Mfg.
06.2010 - 02.2011
- Maintained efficient workflow through comprehensive management of production activities.
- Distributed repair work and bespoke design assignments among jewelers based on expertise, guaranteeing timely delivery of top-notch craftsmanship.
- Coordinated repairs, processed custom orders, and facilitated sales by performing sizings and necessary adjustments.
- Enhanced operational workflows by introducing streamlined procedures.ecuted basic bench repairs.
- Streamlined schedules reducing bottlenecks.
- Batteries link adjustments
- Developed exclusive custom jewelry tailored to customer's specific desires.
- Conducted routine upkeep of displays, fixtures and jewelry to maintain premier presentation.
Assistant Store Manager
McClaves Jewelers
06.2009 - 06.2010
- Drove revenue through effective sales strategies.
- Directed routine task allocation for all bench jewelers.
- Ensured highest levels of customer satisfaction through thorough quality control inspections on all repairs and custom pieces.
- Selected and sorted gemstones for custom jewelry orders.
- Facilitated cost-effective procurement of materials for jewelry production.
Vice President of Acquisitions/ Property Manager
Koesterer Investments
08.2007 - 04.2009
- Specialized in identifying and securing profitable business ventures, such as self-service laundry facilities.
- Expert in transforming numerous enterprises for increased efficiency and expansion.
- Proven success in enhancing the performance of franchise-based businesses.
- Extensive experience in comprehensive property management, covering residential and commercial sectors.
Diamond and Colored Stone Buyer/Assorter
Allison Kaufman
06.1997 - 08.2007
- Handled price negotiation, grading, and sorting duties within the Diamond Department.
- Ensured quality control and inspection of jewelry for distribution to high-profile customers.
- Led operational management for the shipping department, ensuring timely deliveries.
- Well-versed in comprehensive guidelines for U.S.PS, UPS, and Fed Ex shipping.
- Instrumental in aligning and success of a product awarded 'Top-Seller' status in JCK publication's nationwide assessment.
- Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of credit procedures.
- Evaluated financial standing to determine eligibility for new clients.
- Ensured smooth functioning of software and hardware through regular programming and upkeep.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Political Science
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CASkills
- Resilient ability to learn quickly and adapt to any challenge including the acquisitions of new business ventures
- Team leader with proven ability in sales training and streamlining operation procedures increasing sales and profits
- Innate gift in purchasing and sales due to unparalleled negotiation and people skills
- Over20 years of purchasing, sales and manufacturing experience in the high end diamond and rare colored stone jewelry industry
- High computer literacy
- Fluent in many languages
- Experienced Gemologist
- Microscopic eye and superb attention to detail in regards to inspection of jewelry
- Vast knowledge in all types of minerals and gemstones specializing in rare colored gems and diamonds
- Natural ability in sales of high end and luxury items
Timeline
Director of Jewelry Production
VRAM Jewelry
04.2023 - Current
Production Manager
Concierge Diamonds, Inc.
11.2021 - 07.2022
Custom design/Production Manager
MARS Jewelry
03.2017 - 02.2020
Trade Show Director
Allison Kaufman
05.2014 - 09.2016
Head of Production /Operations Manager
Erica Courtney Inc.
03.2011 - 03.2014
Shop Manager/Sales
Universal Jewelers Mfg.
06.2010 - 02.2011
Assistant Store Manager
McClaves Jewelers
06.2009 - 06.2010
Vice President of Acquisitions/ Property Manager
Koesterer Investments
08.2007 - 04.2009
Diamond and Colored Stone Buyer/Assorter
Allison Kaufman
06.1997 - 08.2007
Bachelor's Degree - Political Science
University of California, Los Angeles