Kelsey Lyons: in Chicago, IL

Series C start up, backed with $165M in venture capital. Digitally native evolution of the neighborhood corner store. Owned high-level business strategy and assortment architecture built on trend insights, historical data, and company objectives. Responsible for department budget and annual planning processes including forecasting, buying, promotional strategies, and inventory turnover. Collaborated with creative cross-functional team on seasonal campaigns with compelling storytelling. Amplified brand voice with new concepts to drive customer adoption and retention. Responsible for end-to-end product development & launch process of owned brands segment. Sourced strategic partnerships that pushed boundaries and achieved top-line results. Piloted shipping program to propel company to connect with new audiences nationwide. • Overhauled gifting category to a multimillion-dollar program. Increased sales 40% CAGR over three years and drove 15% of total revenue. • Leveraged inbound interest to launch B2B gifting program and built pipeline of corporate accounts that drove 20% of seasonal revenu • Managed complex vendor matrix and negotiated contracts for better costing and streamlined ordering, delivery, and warehousing capabilities. • Launched Foxtrot Merch Collections. Established brand recognition with creative apparel collections and created buzz through curated drops. • Amplified value proposition and product expertise with creation of private label brands. Owned full lifecycle including sourcing material partners, formula development, branding, packaging and launch content for over twenty distinct products. • Piloted shipping vertical; managed digital strategy, content calendar and site optimization in partnership with operations and e-commerce. • Streamlined data sharing with custom-built dashboards to quickly analyze sales performance-to-plan and devise critical reaction strategies. • Built content with complimentary brands including Dame sexual wellness for Valentine's Day that doubled its forecasted sales plan. • Collaborated on custom product with major influencers ie. Wilco and Carla Lalli Music, which drew attention from Forbes and Rolling Stone. • Featured in multiple segments to promote seasonal gift offerings on company social media and WGN Chicago & ABC News. • Recruited and managed assistant merchant, fulfillment specialist, and corporate account executive.

Nordstrom owned digital wardrobing subscription service; pioneered the at-home try-on model. Managed strong book of business through proactive outreach, client referrals, and cultivated leads. Maintained thorough knowledge of clients to offer unique solutions that met their needs and goals. Analyzed metrics and seasonal trends to influence sales strategy & client appointment planning. Led product knowledge sessions with new stylists to support brand sales and promote new partnerships. • Sold over $2M in apparel, shoes & accessories from contemporary and luxury brands including Vince, Chloe, Prada, Gucci & more. • Recognized for achieving top sales in total company and awarded with President's Club trip. • Selected to pilot and provide feedback on new women's program through Nordstrom acquisition based on experience and performance. • Completed custom certification to increase specialization and expand offering with one-of-a-kind luxury suiting made from top ateliers. • Served on Sales Advisory Board, providing critical input to unlock sales potential and deliver greatest possible customer experience.