Erica Wolfort

Define and execute creative, design, and merchandising strategy from the ground up for two store locations in Chicagoland; supervise three direct reports and oversee a team of 30+, while optimizing resources of a $12K visual budget.

• Devise weekly floorplans, displays, and layouts for tri-weekly shipments of merchandise to facilitate product flow and boost sales for store with $4M in sales; increased profitability by 6% at metro location within one year (2014).
• Achieved the most successful store companywide for the 2015 holiday season and won the Measuring Cup Contest in 2009 for innovative and memorable design.
• Recruit and develop talent, identifying potential and promoting from within; manage scheduling and payroll for teams of 10–30 associates.
• Selected to spearhead new store opening for Deer Park location.
• Led initiative to convert tourist clientele into brand-fan, loyal customers through hosting in-store events and providing high-level customer service.
• Coordinate social media account to build and engage online community: www.instagram.com/anthrodeerpark.
• Selected for Lead Program, which coaches and trains recognized future leaders within the company.
• Promoted four times throughout tenure. Previous roles include: Apparel Department Manager, 2011–2012; Manager in Training, Home Department, 2010; Visual Sales Associate, 2009.

• Collaborated with creative strategists and marketing to coordinate wardrobe designs and support production for nationally televised commercials for leading brands, including FedEx, Tide, Office Depot, and Applebee’s.

• Provide weekly crisis intervention to at-risk, homeless, and runaway youth and their families; participated in 40 hours of training and continuing education; nominated for Board of Directors in 2016 and named Volunteer of the Month in 2014.
• Head up task force for the Spirit of Youth fundraising event since 2015 and increased fundraising by 18% within one year.
• Singlehandedly raised $25K of $80K to date, toward the total goal of $250K.

• Sourced merchandise and curated gallery and boutique, devised floorplan and layout, and installed displays in preparation for grand opening.