Aaron Webster: Product Development and Sourcing Manager, Kitchen and Children's Tableware in Bentonville, AR

- Develop and source over $280 million of annual private branded merchandise for the world’s largest retailer. - Direct over 40 external vendors and multiple internal cross functional teams by defining product specifications based on trends, historical data, and strategic direction to execute development from concept to consumer. - Annual travel to Asia to procure relationships with vendors and international associates by visiting manufacturing facilities and finalizing product assortments; capturing over $5 million in savings by better streamlining the communication and development process. Greatest achievement: Implemented a more sustainable packaging initiative which saved over 94 tons of plastic waste annually.

- Provided color and aesthetic specification to suppliers for items as it applied to the development and strategy of a merchandise assortment for modular and seasonal execution. - Created a weekly competitor print advertisement report that included consumer mindsets and trip drivers, offering a summary of findings and opportunities for improvement. Greatest achievement: Implemented a new processing tool with Consumer Testing Labs that resulted in a more streamlined approach to communication with multiple parties for timely resolutions.

- Served as a subject matter expert in item-level inventory management by creating and maintaining domestic and import item numbers and verifying accuracy of item-level information from various sources. - Executed purchase orders for modular fill, featured items, and flow by uploading distribution information. Greatest achievement: Received company wide award for Promotional Excellence within the Small Appliance category. Recognized by executing orders and item creation with accuracy and a sense of urgency.

- Routed shipments to distribution centers by building loads, designating carriers, and determining load ratings and fees. - Initiated a strategy to alter system settings for Vizio Electronics which saved 62 truckloads, and ultimately over $200,000. Greatest achievement: Received Associate of the Month award for implementing a new Ship Point form for vendors to use when requesting a new shipping location. See less