Sharon Gauding Fetner
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in buying and inventory management, notably at REI, driving sales exceeding $105 million. Proven track record in strategic planning and negotiation, fostering strong vendor relationships. Adept at analyzing market trends to optimize product assortments and enhance profitability while maintaining effective communication across teams.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Property Management Account Manager
ClearTech Pools
St. Petersburg, FL
07.2025 - Current
- Managed operations for four property management companies, including largest with over 400 properties.
- Drove internal business growth through recurring service repairs and proactive maintenance strategies.
- Liaised among tenants, company representatives, and property management personnel to facilitate communication and resolve issues.
- Executed billing processes daily, weekly, and monthly through four distinct portals and ServiceTitan to ensure timely payments.
- Maintained accurate records for invoicing and project timelines to support financial tracking and reporting.
Buyer
WHSmith North America, InMotion
Las Vegas, NV
09.2023 - 03.2025
- Oversaw electronics procurement for 120 airport and resort locations, ensuring efficient supply chain management.
- Negotiated pricing and terms with suppliers to achieve significant cost savings.
- Negotiated vendor pricing, delivery schedules, warranties, and contracts to enhance supply chain efficiency.
- Created vendor strategies to optimize inventory management and drive sales effectiveness.
- Conducted monthly market pricing analyses to ensure compliance with updated airport policies.
- Collaborated with vendors to resolve discrepancies in purchase orders and address compliance issues.
- Analyzed business performance across all levels to support strategic decision-making.
- Coordinated communication with planners, store managers, and regional managers to streamline operations.
Crew Member
Trader Joe’s
St Petersburg, FL
03.2023 - 09.2023
- Created positive customer experiences through prioritizing excellent service.
- Streamlined transaction processes by operating cash register efficiently.
- Delivered product knowledge and samples during wine and food demonstrations to enhance customer engagement.
- Received shipments and stocked shelves to maintain inventory levels.
Buyer
Footlocker/Champs Sports
Bradenton, FL
04.2018 - 01.2023
- Achieved over $50 million in annual sales while managing average inventory exceeding $15 million.
- Directed omni-channel buying for 530 locations across the United States, Canada, and e-commerce in accessories category.
- Formulated seasonal strategic business plans and forecasted sales to optimize inventory management and drive profitability.
- Curated compelling product assortments by identifying emerging brands and trends quarterly.
- Performed market trend analysis, competitive pricing reviews, and profitability assessments by item and supplier to inform strategic decisions.
Buyer
Bealls/Bunulu
Bradenton, FL
08.2014 - 05.2016
- Launched upper-end specialty division under Beall’s corporate umbrella.
- Managed vendor relationships to secure on-time product delivery.
- Collaborated with partners to develop assortments and successfully open three new locations.
- Coordinated marketing, real estate, field operations, and visual merchandising for successful brand launch.
- Developed vision and execution strategy for new brand and physical space.
- Designed and implemented strategic business plan objectives and process improvements.
Realtor
Coldwell Banker
St Petersburg, FL
08.2014 - 04.2018
- Conducted market analysis to establish property values and competitive pricing strategies.
- Developed effective marketing plans tailored to each listing's unique features.
- Advised buyers and sellers on market conditions and negotiation strategies to facilitate informed decisions.
- Cultivated client relationships through regular communication and responsive support, enhancing client satisfaction.
- Executed confidential documents, contracts, and disclosures for real estate transactions, ensuring compliance and accuracy.
- Negotiated contracts between buyers and sellers to secure equitable terms.
Sales and Merchandising Manager
Oboz Footwear
Bozeman, MT
01.2012 - 07.2014
- Led team of 16 independent sales representatives in developing sales goals and promotional strategies.
- Executed seasonal sales meetings to align team goals and motivate sales strategies.
- Trained staff on product knowledge and selling techniques, improving sales effectiveness.
- Identified new product opportunities; implemented strategic line planning to optimize SKU count.
- Developed seasonal merchandising strategies for outdoor footwear collections based on market insights.
- Collaborated with designer and sourcing manager to launch outdoor footwear products, enhancing product line quality.
- Formulated strategic bottom-up business plans to achieve company revenue targets and KPIs.
- Established brand standards to enhance positive market perception and brand image.
Senior Buyer, Planner
REI (Recreational Equipment, INC.)
Seattle, WA
09.2000 - 04.2011
- Managed omni-channel buying for over 125 locations, driving sales exceeding $105 million.
- Developed strategic seasonal business plans, forecasting sales and inventory levels.
- Specialized in launching new brands and products to enhance business growth.
- Fostered relationships with key brands, collaborating on product development to align offerings with market demand.
- Monitored vendor performance metrics, addressing issues to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Opened multiple retail locations, creating effective floor plans and merchandising strategies.
- Attended trade shows to identify industry trends and potential new suppliers.
- Mentored and motivated a team of five, promoting an inclusive and fun workplace culture.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Merchandising
The Florida State University
Tallahassee, FLSkills
- Buying and forecasting
- Inventory analysis
- Financial tracking
- Strategic planning
- Negotiation
- Relationship management
- Resourcefulness
- Time management
Timeline
Property Management Account Manager
ClearTech Pools
07.2025 - Current
Buyer
WHSmith North America, InMotion
09.2023 - 03.2025
Crew Member
Trader Joe’s
03.2023 - 09.2023
Buyer
Footlocker/Champs Sports
04.2018 - 01.2023
Buyer
Bealls/Bunulu
08.2014 - 05.2016
Realtor
Coldwell Banker
08.2014 - 04.2018
Sales and Merchandising Manager
Oboz Footwear
01.2012 - 07.2014
Senior Buyer, Planner
REI (Recreational Equipment, INC.)
09.2000 - 04.2011
Bachelor of Science - Merchandising
The Florida State University