Kristen Leone: Assistant Buyer - Hardgoods in Memphis, TN

Responsible for 4 categories and 30 vendors. Researches new products, negotiates vendor contracts, & completes quarterly line reviews. • Introduced new brands & products, responsible for multiple private label products, as well as, international purchasing and planning, maintaining inventory of items with 90-120 day lead times. • Accountable for private label USA Made dog beds, collars & leashes- ensures all materials are USA made; purchases fabric, patches, and hardware. Discuses design, fiber fill and quality, and cost. Orders beds on monthly basis. Plans and efficiently deploys seasonal bed line. • Responsible for forecasting and maintaining efficient inventory for 105 store fronts. • Researches trends by region to dedicate assortments to specific stores. • Creates future promotions and analyzes data

• Lead local affiliate running group • Event planning and participant support for local running events • Delivered product presentations and product education to running groups and event clinics • Supports sponsorship of Memphis Track Club

Developed a pipeline of research subjects via personal outreach and direct mail to medical clinics, physician offices, VA hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and dialysis clinics. • Maintains relationships with research subjects for purposes of ongoing participant retention and follow-up. Scheduled participant visits with physical therapists, study staff, specialist, and principal investigators. • Process informed consent documentation, collection of measurements and electronic data entry. • Produced improved and expanded relationships with various clinics and reached our study participant goals. • Developed extensive understanding of below the knee conditions and remedies, including Ossur Proprio Prosthetics, ReWalk orthotic device, drop foot maladies, and fitness for total knee replacements.

• Planned, purchased, and managed inventory levels and turn for athletic apparel and accessories for 2 store fronts with revenue of $3.0M. • Personally interfaced with sales representatives from Patagonia, North Face, Brooks, Saucony, Nike, Mizuno, Oiselle, Asics, New Balance, Lucy, Sauce, Pistil, Smartwool, Feeture, CEP, and Balega. • Responsible for floor merchandising, discounts, and markdowns. Analyzed sales and stocking trends. Delivered product education at monthly staff meetings. • Attended Summer and Winter Outdoor Retailer Trade Shows. • Build Customer loyalty via product education and customer relationship management. • Received training in analyzing the gait and foot mechanics of athletes. Assist and fit customers for athletic shoes.

Dual role as sales leader and buyer of apparel and accessories for independent athletic store with $1.0M in annual sales. • Managed inventory levels and turn as well as special orders for footwear • Advised customers with footwear, apparel, and accessory purchases across diverse sports, including running, wrestling, soccer tennis, and swimming.