Mike fowler
EVANSTON,Illinois
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven sales executive with extensive experience in driving revenue growth, building brands, and overcoming complex business challenges through strategic sales operations. Proven expertise in sales management, brand and product management, inventory control, and vendor relations. Known for achieving revenue, profit, and market share objectives while fostering strong partnerships. Deep understanding of core market drivers with specialization in omni-channel sales management and team leadership across outdoor, sporting goods, hardware, farm, and industrial sectors. Results-oriented Executive Vice President of Sales using persuasive techniques to successfully deliver business results. Astute professional offering talents in contract, negotiation and change management. Develops sales personnel into strong, competitive teams.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Vice President of Sales, Industrial & Retail
Toughbuilt
06.2020 - Current
- Conceptualize and implement sales strategies to achieve short- and long-term targets for profitable growth and market expansion
- Establish sales goals to ensure market share and profitability objectives are met
- Lead by example, calling on key end-user and distributor accounts and delivering sales presentations in coordination with sales representatives
- Mentor and oversee the Industrial team, ensuring performance targets are achieved
- Develop unit and dollar sales forecasts, direct sales forecasting activities, and leverage CRM systems to enhance sales effectiveness
- Spearheaded the development and expansion of the company’s sales distribution network across international, industrial, and retail markets
- Built and led a sales team, developed comprehensive sales plans, and executed growth strategies
- Fostered a collaborative sales culture that enhanced cross-functional communication and ensured the success of presentations and trade shows.
Senior Vice President of Sales
Ironclad Performance Wear
07.2015 - 05.2020
- Led the expansion of Ironclad’s sales distribution network across industrial and retail sectors globally
- Built and directed a high-performing sales team, developed targeted growth strategies, and executed comprehensive sales plans
- Strengthened customer relationships through targeted campaigns and competitive sales programs, resulting in significant demand growth.
Director of Sales / Team Leader
Manzella Productions (Totes Isotoner)
06.2010 - 06.2015
- Directed sales and marketing for outdoor and running gloves, overseeing a team of 3 sales managers and 150 independent reps
- Managed major retail accounts, including Sports Authority, REI, and Bass Pro Shops
- Achieved significant growth in existing accounts and generated new business opportunities through strategic sales initiatives
- Collaborated with marketing teams to optimize sales collateral and promotional strategies.
VP Operations
Uncle Dan’s Outdoor Store
09.1991 - 03.2010
- Managed sales and operations across four stores and an e-commerce site, generating $25MM in annual revenue
- Key player in growing the business from a single store to a nationally recognized outdoor specialty retail chain with a strong online presence
- Led staff development, vendor relationships, and brand expansion, driving the company’s overall growth.
Education
MBA, Human Resources -
Southeast Missouri State University - Harrison College of Business
01.1988
Skills
- National Sales Rep Management
- Strategic Sales Planning & Analysis
- Market Awareness & Trend Forecasting
- Cross-Functional Team Leadership
- Licensee Management (Carhartt, Woolrich, New Balance)
- Decisive Decision-Making & Problem Solving
- Specialty Store Purchasing & Vendor Management
- Industry Expertise
- Deal Closing
- Sales Pipeline Management
- Sales strategy
Industries
- DIY
- Hardware
- Farm
- Outdoor
- Sporting Goods
- Industrial
- Mass
Additional Education
Western Michigan University, 1980, 1984, All-American, NCAA Division I
Personal Information
Title: Omni-Channel Sales Strategist & Leader
Timeline
Vice President of Sales, Industrial & Retail
Toughbuilt
06.2020 - Current
Senior Vice President of Sales
Ironclad Performance Wear
07.2015 - 05.2020
Director of Sales / Team Leader
Manzella Productions (Totes Isotoner)
06.2010 - 06.2015
VP Operations
Uncle Dan’s Outdoor Store
09.1991 - 03.2010
MBA, Human Resources -
Southeast Missouri State University - Harrison College of Business