Thomas Slaughter: in Maywood, NJ

Focused on brand-building and sales for Gletcher pneumatic guns and Steel Will tactical and outdoor knives through numerous channels. Developed marketing vision, business plans, and strategies to execute same. Independently targeted and signed distributors, national accounts, independent dealers, and end-users. Met long-term goal to sign Cabela's in the first month of employment with other major retailer accounts in the works. Worked with SPS for EDI integration for sales with various dealers, including Cabela’s, GSA, Knife-deals, and Midway. Exhibited at the IWA Conference in Germany within first week of employment. Researched buy groups, identified possible trade venues, planned, and successfully exhibited at trade shows, i.e. The Blade Show. Secured a booth at the Sports Inc show, and NBS.

Secured new sales. Increased 2013 customer sales/invoices by 57% over 2012. Secured the top 4 customer orders in 2013 and 2014 in the 10 year company history. Generated over $5M in new sales while meeting minimum profit margins of 25-40% per product sold. Developed 3 new product lines and established new client bases for each. Managed account transition upon departure of senior salesperson, assuming existing accounts and regaining customer confidence. Achieved $500,000 in sales in the first quarter of 2013 through win-back accounts. Recruited and secured independent, outside manufacturers representatives and distributors. Established policies and procedures for execution of quotations and proposals, travel and expenses. Created and implemented a customer service management system (Salesforce). Managed marketing material and launch of website. Initiated and maintained online advertising, leading to over $1M in revenue. Solicited feedback from customers and ensured market competitiveness. Managed logistics for trade shows from pricing negotiations to ROI tracking.

Managed all aspects relating to the startup company C.A.M.P. from research and development to production, marketing, and sales development in the outdoor industry. Reported to the President/CEO of DHS Technologies. Created goals and objectives. Led meetings. Managed and attended trade and consumer shows for exhibition, research and networking. Established and maintained editorial contacts. Earned Field & Stream magazine’s “Best of the Best” award. Established contacts with retail distribution entities. Attained certification for the Recreation Vehicle Industry design standards. Managed durability testing at the Bosch Proving grounds. Managed P.R. events.

Advanced from E-1 to E-5 in less than three years. Managed the training department of the world’s busiest Coast Guard Station in Miami Beach, Florida. Conducted over 100 Search and Rescue missions. Commanded unit’s boats as Boat Master. Instructed firearm safety, first aid law enforcement, communications, and daily operations. Enforced federal laws and regulations. Assisted in the training and organization of the sixty mobilized reserves (in Miami area) called to active duty following 9/11. Received a Letter of Commendation for training management and law enforcement. Awarded Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation for organization and planning. Graduated Maritime Law Enforcement Academy as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer. Completed Team Coordination and Leadership and Management training, State of Alaska Marine Fire Fighting School, OSHA Hazardous Waste Response School, Cold Weather Survival School, and Boot Camp.