James Dion: in Pittsburgh, PA

Developed and executed Buyer training "360 degree Buying" to enhance company Buying performance. Challenged Buyers to think about all aspects of their business in order to drive sales. Developed and implemented a strategic profitability plan that maintained Division GM% before, during and after emergence from Chapter 11 reorganization. Strategically negotiated direct payment terms with vendors that protected company liquidity and profitability. 0% Merchandising Attrition rate during volatile reorganization process.

Implemented division wide Good, Better, Best pricing strategies. Resulting AUR increase offset smaller basket size to maintain comp sales for 2017. Rebalanced Core, Must Have, and Fashion on order resulting in a +4% Comp Stack for Sp 17. Significantly improved vendor relationships with key vendors while Company was unable to gain Factor approval, resulting in better product assortments, terms and pricing, improving INV turn and GM%.

September 2012 S.V.P Award Winner for Innovation: Accessories Strategy. Proven Sales and Profitability increases. In 2012 Department beat Plan, GM $, GM%, and won "Golden" award for hitting all financial metrics. Managed a diversified and complex nine figure business and partnership with a cross functional team of over eighty people. Successfully Plan, Assort, Develop and Deliver numerous product categories including: Bags, Belts, Hats, Wallets, Watches, Umbrella's, Hankies, Bandanna's, Robes, Slippers, Woven and Knit PJ sets, Boxed Gifts, Knit and Woven Winter Hats, Gloves and Scarves, Leather Gloves and Jewelry, Suspenders and Ties. Experience with National Brand vendors, Target Owned brands, and multiple License Vendors. Department Captainships: Plan Captain, Forecast Captain. Men's Division Captainships: Visual Concept Committee Captain (Visual Merchandising); Q4 Strategy Captain; United Way Captain; Father's Day Taskforce (Member), Numerous L.T.O. Captainships.