Reuben Shaw
New Milford,NJ
Summary
Dynamic and visionary Leader with 15 years of distinguished experience in the luxury apparel and fashion design industry. Renowned for designing and presenting two standout collections at New York Fashion Week. Proven expertise in leading large-scale production projects, from initial concept to final execution, including the successful development of a retail store. Exceptional leadership skills, adept at inspiring and mobilizing cross-functional teams to achieve corporate goals and drive innovation. Skilled in blending diverse industry trends and deep professional knowledge into compelling and profitable solutions. A strategic menswear tailoring consultant with a growth-oriented mindset and strong business acumen. Committed to delivering exceptional client service, with outstanding time management and organizational abilities.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
The Oxblood Zebra LLC
03.2019 - Current
- Founded and established OXBLOOD ZEBRA, a creative tailoring and design business focused on innovation in the world of high-end bespoke clothing for both men and women.
- Elevated the retail experience by offering personalized styling and personal shopping services, ensuring each client receives a bespoke journey tailored to their unique tastes and preferences, fostering enduring relationships.
- Mastermind behind the brand's success, orchestrating every aspect from sourcing the finest materials to overseeing meticulous production, implementing cutting-edge marketing strategies, and steering strategic growth initiatives.
- Shattered industry norms with two groundbreaking collections unveiled at New York Fashion Week, captivating audiences and earning widespread acclaim from press and media alike, thrusting OXBLOOD ZEBRA into the global spotlight.
- Delivered a summer sensation in 2023 with a dynamic pop-up storefront in the heart of Manhattan, captivating passersby with our signature blend of luxury and innovation, attracting a diverse clientele and leaving a lasting impression.
- Continuously driving the brand forward, infusing each creation with a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of style, sophistication, and luxury.
Design Officer | Project and Operations Manager
Tates’s Menswear LLC
02.2022 - 12.2023
- Spearhead the private label brand design process, integrating creative vision with strategic planning from concept to execution, including label packaging and enhancing the overall customer experience.
- Manage scope, schedule, and cost of design projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget while maintaining high standards of quality and innovation.
- Achieved a Cost Performance Index (CPI) over 1 on all projects, demonstrating exceptional cost management and operational efficiency.
- Coordinate extensively with factory representatives in China, Vietnam, Turkey, Jordan, and across the U.S., overseeing the integration of materials, production schedules, and quality control processes.
- Lead cross-functional teams in the delivery of materials and trimmings to manufacturers, managing production spaces, product sampling, and rigorous quality assurance.
- Collaborate with the buying team to identify new products and suppliers, aligning selections with current and future customer trends.
- Implement streamlined business processes for store operations, providing comprehensive training and development for new hires and existing staff, and supporting the management team in their professional growth.
- Utilize project management skills to balance creative design with operational efficiency, ensuring that all projects meet strategic business goals and customer expectations.
- Proven expertise in leading large-scale production projects, from initial concept to final execution, including the successful development of a retail storefront.
Director of Store Operations
Hive And Colony
01.2020 - 03.2021
- Championed overall operations and led a dynamic team of 5 staff members at this prestigious luxury retail destination specializing in custom-made footwear and apparel for discerning men and women.
- Exemplified leadership by fostering a culture of excellence and success, driving the team to surpass monthly sales goals while delivering exceptional customer service.
- Spearheaded the implementation of corporate training standards and comprehensive onboarding programs for new employees, ensuring seamless integration and alignment with company values and objectives.
- Provided personalized guidance and expertise to clients, offering insights into textiles, measuring procedures, and the latest styles and fashion trends, resulting in heightened customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Proactively monitored individual key performance indicators, consistently surpassing targets, and cultivated a high-performing team through ongoing training, development, and motivation.
- Executed various administrative tasks with precision and efficiency, including maintaining alteration invoice logs, processing biweekly payroll (including sales commissions), generating CRM reports, and meticulously managing store inventory and client garment orders.
Master Fitter | Product Design Associate
Sebastien Grey Clothiers
04.2018 - 01.2020
- Orchestrated meticulous, personalized client fittings, adhering to Sebastien Grey guidelines and headquarters’ best practices, setting the standard for superior fitting precision and customer satisfaction.
- Attained prestigious recognition as a top 1% sales producer for two consecutive years, exemplifying exceptional sales prowess and unwavering commitment to surpassing targets.
- Seamlessly managed an average of 50 fittings monthly, boasting an alteration rate of just 8%, showcasing unparalleled efficiency and precision in tailoring services.
- Played a pivotal role as a valued team member on the product development and design teams, contributing invaluable creative insights and expertise to elevate product offerings.
- Fostered enduring professional relationships with a diverse clientele, delivering bespoke tailoring experiences while imparting knowledge on pattern creation, textile varieties, and diverse styles, cultivating lasting loyalty and satisfaction.
- Initiated innovative strategies for continuous improvement and implemented new protocols, driving operational enhancements and elevating the overall customer experience.
Lead Client Experience Professional
Details On Granby Custom Clothiers
11.2014 - 03.2018
- Spearheaded the launch of new Made to Measure and Bespoke (all handmade) programs, driving boutique growth through innovative sales strategies and competitive market share expansion.
- Provided personalized image and wardrobe consultations, leveraging expert luxury bespoke experience to recommend products tailored to individual customer needs and preferences, fostering strong client relationships.
- Executed initial fittings, cloth selections, styling, alterations, and future purchase planning, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled customer service.
- Represented the boutique at multi-state trade shows and buying promotions as an assistant buyer, contributing to product selection and brand positioning.
- Demonstrated exceptional sales management, generating 35% of personal store sales and revenue through custom apparel, footwear, and accessories.
- Cultivated and nurtured a personal client base of over 150 clients, including financial, medical, sports, and entertainment professionals, through targeted relationship-building and superior service.
- Led visual merchandising efforts and managed inventory control, maintaining a visually appealing store environment while optimizing stock levels and product availability.
- Fostered positive vendor relationships, negotiating specs, pricing, and deadlines to ensure optimal product quality and timely delivery, while diligently managing the store operating budget to reduce overall spend.
- Utilized CRM systems to capture detailed client data and monitored monthly database reporting and analytics to drive informed business decisions.
Hospitality Supervisor
Hilton
03.2009 - 07.2016
- Exemplified the epitome of guest service excellence as a Front-Line attendant, consistently delivering warm receptions and unparalleled customer service to ensure unforgettable guest experiences.
- Elevated to "First Tier" supervisory duties, entrusted with processing payroll and orchestrating staff schedules for a team of 12, demonstrating leadership and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of service.
- Orchestrated seamless valet and bellman services, facilitated check-in and concierge services, and expertly coordinated dinner reservations, embodying a client-centric approach rooted in warmth, attentiveness, and personalized care.
- Served as a knowledgeable resource for inquiries regarding hotel services, entertainment options, driving directions, and local tourism, providing comprehensive assistance and fostering lasting impressions of exceptional service and hospitality.
Retail Sales Associate
Mens Warehouse
03.2008 - 03.2009
- Provided exceptional customer service while assisting with sales and tuxedo rentals, ensuring each customer received personalized attention and assistance.
- Processed payment transactions with meticulous attention to detail, fostering positive interactions with all customers throughout the retail store.
- Assisted customers in making merchandise selections and placing custom orders, utilizing product knowledge and expertise to meet their individual needs and preferences.
Full Time Religious Volunteer
Watchtower Bible & Tract Society Of New York
04.2004 - 04.2008
- Represented organization positively and professionally while providing community with much-needed services.
- Participated in volunteer orientations and training sessions to learn about organizational changes and mission updates.
- Supported public relations efforts by representing the organization at various community events, building positive relationships with potential supporters.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry best practices by attending conferences and training sessions relevant to the organization''s mission.
- Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
Education
No Degree - Computer Networking
Tidewater Community College
Norfolk, VANo Degree - Marketing
Bryant And Stratton College - Newport News
Newport News, VACertification - Project Management
PMI( Project Management Institute)
07.2024
Skills
- Customer Relations
- Small business operations
- Relationship Building
- Verbal and written communication
- Client Service
- Project Management
- Staff Management
- Business Administration
- Operations Management
- Business Management
- Strategic Planning
- Team Oversight
- Team Leadership
Languages
Chinese (Mandarin)
Limited Working
Timeline
Design Officer | Project and Operations Manager
Tates’s Menswear LLC
02.2022 - 12.2023
Director of Store Operations
Hive And Colony
01.2020 - 03.2021
Owner
The Oxblood Zebra LLC
03.2019 - Current
Master Fitter | Product Design Associate
Sebastien Grey Clothiers
04.2018 - 01.2020
Lead Client Experience Professional
Details On Granby Custom Clothiers
11.2014 - 03.2018
Hospitality Supervisor
Hilton
03.2009 - 07.2016
Retail Sales Associate
Mens Warehouse
03.2008 - 03.2009
Full Time Religious Volunteer
Watchtower Bible & Tract Society Of New York
04.2004 - 04.2008
No Degree - Computer Networking
Tidewater Community College
No Degree - Marketing
Bryant And Stratton College - Newport News
Certification - Project Management
PMI( Project Management Institute)
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