Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Michael Van Gundy

Wasilla,AK

Summary

I'm a hands-on merchandising professional with a strong track record at Columbia Distributing, where I’ve led sales strategies, developed high-performing teams, and built lasting vendor relationships. I’m passionate about visual merchandising and inventory management — making sure the right products are in the right place, at the right time. I keep a close eye on market trends to drive smarter stock rotation, and create a better experience for customers. I genuinely enjoy coaching teams, solving problems on the fly, and finding practical ways to boost performance while keeping operations running smoothly. For me, it’s all about blending strategy with action, and helping both the business and the people in it grow.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work History

Merchandising Supervisor

Columbia Distributing
Seattle, WA
07.2022 - 05.2025
  • Led a team of 8–12 merchandisers across 30 grocery accounts, consistently keeping sales and merchandising performance above targets.
  • Interviewed, trained, and onboarded new team members, creating orientation sessions and coaching programs that set them up for success.
  • Conducted performance check-ins to understand strengths, address challenges, and provide constructive feedback.
  • Reinforced company policies and expectations while maintaining open, supportive communication.
  • Tracked team progress, implemented incentive programs, and ensured members had the tools and guidance to succeed.
  • Managed operations calmly in high-pressure situations, showing strong stress tolerance, and problem-solving skills.
  • Coached and counseled team members regularly, setting clear goals, and following up to ensure results were achieved.
  • Advocated for employees' needs and perspectives, presenting concerns, and supporting solutions effectively.
  • Developed and executed merchandising strategies that boosted sales and improved profitability.
  • Conducted regular store visits to confirm that displays, product placement, and standards were met.
  • Researched competitors and adjusted merchandising plans to maintain a competitive edge.
  • Coordinated with vendors and suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and adequate stock levels.
  • Submitted accurate daily reports to the Merchandising Director, supporting planning and business decisions.
  • Paid close attention to details, and made accurate, timely decisions that advanced operational goals.
  • Collected and analyzed sales and operational data to guide decisions and optimize results.

Lift Operations Lead

Vail resort
Vail, CO
11.2020 - 01.2022
  • Conducted regular inspections of ski lifts to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with regulations.
  • Supervised lift operators, providing direction, and maintaining performance levels above expectations.
  • Monitored lift operations, enforced safety protocols, and ensured all staff followed emergency procedures.
  • Performed daily operational checks on lifts and gondolas to confirm readiness and safety.
  • Partnered with maintenance staff to identify potential equipment issues early, and minimize downtime.
  • Adjusted staffing in real time based on lift line traffic to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.
  • Responded quickly and calmly to urgent operational issues, demonstrating stress tolerance in high-pressure situations.
  • Made critical decisions on the spot during peak traffic or emergency conditions, balancing safety, efficiency, and customer experience.
  • Trained staff to remain composed under pressure, and follow established emergency protocols.

Bar Prep Lead

Legacy Food Hall
Plano , TX
07.2017 - 07.2020
  • Operated various machinery and tools to ensure safety and efficiency.
  • Exceeded customer satisfaction through innovative problem-solving solutions.
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving abilities, resolving issues swiftly and effectively.
  • Managed inventory and supplies to guarantee availability of essential materials.
  • Collaborated with diverse teams to achieve common goals and address product-related issues.
  • Provided support and guidance to colleagues, fostering a collaborative work atmosphere.

Education

Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice

Tyler Junior College
Troup, TX

Some College (No Degree) - Psychology

Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX

Skills

  • Visual merchandising and inventory management
  • Vendor coordination and supplier audits
  • Sales strategy and retail operations
  • Team leadership and performance coaching
  • Merchandise planning and stock replenishment
  • Customer relationship management (CRM) and brand presentations
  • Merchandising trends and stock rotation

Accomplishments

  • Use effective interviewing techniques to assess needs and gather information.
  • Familiar with community and organizational resources, connecting people to appropriate support.
  • Apply rules, policies, and procedures quickly and accurately in real-world situations.
  • Comfortable meeting individuals in their environment and building trust through engagement.
  • Recognize patterns in behavior, attitudes, and trends to guide decisions and develop practical plans.
  • Analyze situations carefully, identify solutions, and take decisive action.
  • Exhibit strong self-management by setting goals, staying motivated, and completing assignments with minimal supervision.
  • Advocate effectively for the needs of team members, clients, and stakeholders.
  • Demonstrate logical reasoning, data interpretation, and problem-solving in high-pressure and fast-paced environments.

Timeline

Merchandising Supervisor

Columbia Distributing
07.2022 - 05.2025

Lift Operations Lead

Vail resort
11.2020 - 01.2022

Bar Prep Lead

Legacy Food Hall
07.2017 - 07.2020

Some College (No Degree) - Criminal Justice

Tyler Junior College

Some College (No Degree) - Psychology

Texas Tech University
Michael Van Gundy
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