Nathan Taylor
Noblesville,IN
Summary
Accomplished leader with extensive experience at Lids, adept in operations management and fostering team growth. Elevated business processes, achieving a headwear business worth over $275M annually. Excelled in strategic sourcing, enhancing supplier relationships, and mentoring teams to promote continuous improvement and employee engagement. Demonstrates exceptional business planning and communication skills.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Operator
Hats Off Vending & More LLC
06.2024 - Current
- Oversee end-to-end business processes to maintain proficiency and profitability of machine fleet.
- Improving customer satisfaction rates by prioritizing client needs and addressing concerns promptly.
- Establishing a loyal customer base through referral programs and personalized customer experiences.
- Cultivating strong relationships with suppliers/vendors to secure favorable pricing agreements for materials/services needed for daily operations.
- Consult with customers to assess needs and propose optimal assortments.
Senior Buying Director
Lids Sports Group
02.2023 - 06.2024
- Oversaw a total headwear business of $275M+ annually across 1200+ stores in US/CA/MEX.
- Built and lead a team of four buyers in London buying headwear for stores in UK, Australia, France, Germany, and Netherlands.
- Developed high-performing team of six buyers in the US by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
Buying Director
Lids Sports Group
03.2020 - 02.2023
Senior Buyer
Lids Sports Group
10.2018 - 03.2020
- Participated in continuous improvement initiatives, contributing ideas for more effective procurement processes.
- Achieved cost savings by implementing strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations.
- Optimized inventory management practices, reducing excess stock and minimizing carrying costs.
- Developed strong relationships with suppliers, fostering collaboration and mutual growth.
Buyer
Lids Sports Group
06.2012 - 10.2018
- Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
- Collaborated with internal departments to better understand needs and determine purchasing requirements.
- Reduced procurement costs through strategic sourcing, competitive bidding, and effective negotiations.
- Developed strong relationships with suppliers to secure favorable pricing terms and conditions for the company''s benefit.
Merchandiser
Lids Sports Group
03.2010 - 06.2012
- Maintained comprehensive records of allocation activities, providing valuable insights for future decision-making processes.
- Reduced excess stock levels by implementing efficient allocation strategies.
- Developed strong relationships with retail partners, fostering collaboration towards achieving mutual goals in stock management.
- Monitored sales performance daily, adjusting allocations based on market fluctuations and demand patterns.
- Collaborated with logistics, merchants and planners to strategically mitigate risks to business.
- Developed allocation strategies to maximize sales and minimize markdowns.
Embroidery Support Coordinator
Lids Sports Group
06.2008 - 03.2010
- Supported the staffs of over 1000 stores to efficiently run their embroidery operations.
- Traveled to multiple stores monthly to fix embroidery machine issues and perform general maintenance.
- Trained employees on how to run embroidery machines and sell embroidery to customers.
Store Manager
Lids Sports Group
09.2002 - 06.2008
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
Education
Business Development
IUPUI
Indianapolis, INSkills
- Operations management
- Documentation and reporting
- Hiring
- Business planning
Timeline
Owner/Operator
Hats Off Vending & More LLC
06.2024 - Current
Senior Buying Director
Lids Sports Group
02.2023 - 06.2024
Buying Director
Lids Sports Group
03.2020 - 02.2023
Senior Buyer
Lids Sports Group
10.2018 - 03.2020
Buyer
Lids Sports Group
06.2012 - 10.2018
Merchandiser
Lids Sports Group
03.2010 - 06.2012
Embroidery Support Coordinator
Lids Sports Group
06.2008 - 03.2010
Store Manager
Lids Sports Group
09.2002 - 06.2008
Business Development
IUPUI
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