Mark Ross - Benefit Narratives (Accomplishment / Action / Result)
(1) Established new market distribution in 30 countries. Outlined specific target channels of distribution; developed an ideal distributor, sales agent and/or retail profile; prioritized markets to enter; conducted research and candidate evaluations; and made a market-by-market entry decision. Increased international sales from $5 million to $22 million within 5 years, achieving average annual sales growth of approximately 35%.
(2) Recruited, trained and managed a global sales organization focusing on casual, streetwear, outdoor and denim markets. Researched potential candidates through available and innovative resources; provided an extensive orientation of the company and product line; sales, marketing and promotional objectives as well as overall brand positioning guidelines; frequent market visits and yearly evaluations. Set up a long-term stable and aggressive global sales organization.
(3) Initiated a “marketing department” where there had been no perceived need for one. Developed marketing collateral materials (catalogs, pamphlets, line sheets, etc.), sales tools, promotions and media campaigns; new packaging and hang tags; required trade show participation; introduced a co-op program; product labeling. Outerwear label that is strongly identified and recognized as a major brand in overseas markets.
(4) Created an incentive program to increase Alpha’s marketing, advertising and promotional budgets by introducing a co-op program to all international markets. Researched and analyzed such programs at other apparel companies and worked with Alpha’s CFO to “tweak” the program(s) to fit Alpha’s objectives. An immediate and sustained increase (varied between 25% - 200%) in the amount of marketing activity done at the local level.
(5) Introduced the terminology of “military inspired outerwear” and led the development behind Alpha’s long-term growth through new product launches and licensing activities. Analyzed opportunities, market needs and requirements; researched designers, vendors and manufacturers; negotiated contracts, agreements including registration of trademarks; worked with key accounts on product specifications, launch and ongoing sales/marketing efforts. Launched a successful “military inspired” pant (cargo, khaki’s, etc.) and outerwear program in Japan and Europe/Latin America. New products contributed to a 6-8% increase in sales; licensing royalties approx. $175,000 to Alpha in the first full fiscal year.
(6) Identified, developed and implemented a long range plan to increase market share as a supplier of Mil-Spec. garments to foreign military governments and organizations. Evaluated in-house manufacturing capabilities; drafted a proposal indicating target markets, budget requirements, factory floor usage and a benefit/cost analysis over a three-year period. Executed the program through a focused advertising effort, specialized trade show participation and increased distributor support for this synergistic market. Awarded contracts in Pakistan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Denmark, Norway, Italy, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay generating sales in excess of $4-5 million in the first calendar year.
(7) Developed and launched a series of innovative (SLPP) product fixtures for the global L’eggs hosiery market (noted a need for a cost/space efficient, lightweight, movable fixture to accommodate a vast array of international retail markets). Analyzed and reviewed existing data on fixture prices, average available floor space, height requirements and features; researched vendors at several trade shows; drafted a final proposal with drawings. Full-scale production of an initial 2,300 fixtures (two floor models and one counter-top) were produced.
(8) Corporate shift from a traditional (government) manufacturing mind set to a branded program driven by retail/consumer sales and marketing objectives (fashion). As Director of International Sales, I played a vital and decisive role in this transition. The expectations of the new customer base led to a major overhaul of manufacturing:
a) quality standards and evaluation processes were improved
b) ability to run shorter production with less disruption, quicker order turnaround
c) handling of a 300% increase in SKU’s
d) improved inventory management
e) off-shore sourcing
f) overall improved manufacturing flexibility and technique
The overall result is the continued success of Alpha. It is the only U.S. Government contractor to successfully develop a “branded” fashion program while remaining a major manufacturer of Mil-Spec. outerwear.
(9) Implemented a defective returns policy. Researched and analyzed such programs at other “international” apparel companies and developed one to fit Alpha’s needs; set out program parameters to accept returns (allowable %, timing, type of defect, merchandise credit, etc.). Strengthened our market position and long-term relationships with distributors, retail and key accounts. In some cases received increased visibility and positioning within the store(s).
(10) Focused manufacturing on improving product quality standards. Ongoing directives, noting customer complaints; increased quantity of returns; competitive standards; analysis of potential lost business and consumer confidence; researched alternative sources (vendors) for materials such as knit cuffs, snaps etc. As a result, manufacturing made a significant reorganization of the production lines to increase controls; added additional line inspectors; made changes in some of their material vendors. Improvement in the quality of the products led to increased satisfaction and bottom-line results.
(11) Launched a counter-attack on counterfeiters of Alpha products. Initiated a strong trademark program throughout the world; outlined a step-by-step program in handling a counterfeit jacket; worked with manufacturing to set up a profile to recognize counterfeit jackets and disseminated this information to our sales network; notified customs officials to be on the look-out in major ports of entry; took strong focused legal action against counterfeiters; publicized actions and results to emphasize our willingness to fight. Several highly publicized seizures, including the largest (50,000 pieces) seizure ever in Scotland (a major port of entry) to continental Europe. Over the course of this on-going program, a dramatic decrease in the sheer quantity of counterfeit products and such illegal activity in the market.
(12) Alpha Industries as a U.S. based manufacturer, initiated an off-shore sourcing and production program. Presented a strongly researched thesis on the benefits, tradeoffs and overall value to introduce an off-shore program to diversify and remain competitive in global markets; gained support of the sales organizations; key account presentations; researched vendors; sampling program; financing alternatives; production and delivery. Successful introduction of a non-USA made Alpha product to European markets, achieving quality standards, pricing levels and sales targets.
(13) Established a European sales office (London) to increase sales and marketing efforts in this region. Set-up budget, P&L and operational needs; duties, requirements and responsibilities; recruited and trained a General Manager. Opened up Alpha Industries – Europe. Quickly improved market communications and enable office to work with the sales network on a much closer basis.
(14) Opened a European distribution center. Analyzed requirements; researched available resources; duties, taxes, freight, holding and “picking” costs; pricing structure; chose location. Distribution center opened to assist the sales network in out-of-stock situations and direct sales to key accounts. Also noted improved (quicker) deliveries, increased customer satisfaction and fewer out-of-stock situations thereby improved results at retail.
(15) Registered Alpha Industries, Inc.’s intellectual property Ò and Ô in all viable markets. Worked with legal counsel to determine current standing and position in market(s); outlined markets to register property; coordinated budgeting and funding activities; produced quarterly updates for review. Strengthened our ability to legally enforce trademarks and other corporate property.
(16) Product launch of Champion Sportswear and L’eggs Hosiery in Korea, Taiwan & Hong Kong. Analyzed requirements and steps; timing, recruited distributors; trained sales network; developed specific marketing, packaging, sizing and color programs; fixturing; established wholesale and retail price points; target retail outlets. First year sales targets met or exceeded goals in all three markets.
(17) Implemented licensing and private label program with Walt Disney & Harley-Davidson (Latin America) and Faconable (France). Sought out opportunities with these and other companies to license their trademarks and/or produce private label outerwear; coordinated funding and budgeting requirements; contractual negotiations; new product development; retail positioning and sales. Developed increased penetration in niche markets, opportunities with DFS (Duty Free Shops) and other channels of distribution. Increased brand awareness and long-term market building rather than significant bottom line results were the objectives (yearly sales approx. $150K).
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Professional Resume
MARK ROSS
13919 Venice Court s Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 504.9117 s markross@bctonline.com
Global Sales, Marketing & Business Development
Senior level executive with demonstrated success in initiating, executing, and sustaining company revenue objectives in the global marketplace. Unique ability to penetrate new overseas markets by spearheading relationship development with key clients/partners and seizing revenue opportunities to achieve market dominance. Solid background of top-level decision making and oversight of all components of business development activities including sales architecture from ground-up, talent management, sales and marketing activities, strategic planning and fiscal management. Successful and results-driven individual with proven background in engineering new initiatives that positively affect company revenue opportunities and profitability.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
o Global Business Development and Strategy
o International Sales and Marketing
o Multi-Channel Retail Positioning
o Classic Brand / Product Management
o Factory Operations, Quality Control
o Strategic Planning & Market Analysis
o Product Lifecycle Management
o World-Wide Licensing Negotiations
o Sourcing, Supply Chain & Logistics
o Merchandising
o P&L Budget Responsibility
o Demand / Sales Forecasting
o Pricing, Margin, Discount, Mark-Up
o Global Top Tier Key Account Management
o Distributor / Sales Rep. Recruitment
o Media, PR, POP Development
o Corporate Trademark / IP Management
o Highly Proficient In Japanese Language
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE_____________________________________
INTERNATIONAL MARKET DEVELOPMENT
· Established new market distribution in Europe, Asia, and South America. Outlined specific target channels of distribution, developed ideal distributor, sales agent and/or retail profiles, prioritized markets to enter marketplace, conducted research and candidate evaluations, and made market-by-market entry decisions.
o Increased international sales from $5 million to $22 million in five years, achieving average annual sales growth of approximately 30%; established distribution in 35 countries
o Cross-functional (Fortune 50) team implemented sales and profitability plan growing business from $30 million to $100 million in Asia within six years (excluding acquisitions)
· Led new international product launches and licensing activities. Analyzed opportunities, market needs and requirements, researched partners and vendors, negotiated contracts/agreements including registration of trademarks, worked with key accounts on product specifications and launched ongoing sales and marketing efforts.
o New products contributed to an ongoing 6-8% yearly increase in sales
o Launched successful licensing programs in Europe, Japan and Argentina, generating royalties of $175,000 in the first full year (Disney, Harley-Davidson, Edwin Jeans)
· Increased market share in the global marketplace. Evaluated in-house capabilities, drafted proposals targeting specific opportunity markets, generated operational and sales budget requirements, and developed benefit/cost analysis as part of strategic planning covering a three-year period. Executed program through focused and targeted opportunities through tradeshows and advertising.
o Sustained average annual global sales growth exceeding 25% over 10 years with major branded companies by creating long-term viable and profitable partnerships in Europe, Asia and South America
o Generated sales in excess of $4-5 million in the first 18 months through awarded contracts in Pakistan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Denmark, Norway, Italy, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay
STRATEGIC PLANNING
· Created and implemented long-term business development vision. Developed vision and strategic planning for product positioning, sales growth and support, pricing, productivity and quality measurements. Set-up customer service/care infrastructure and systems. Managed and forecasted budgets ≥ $25 million.
o Identified, developed, implemented, evaluated and communicated long-range global sales and marketing programs that led to market share dominance within their respective retail segments
o Refined existing planning models to better predict sales volumes, operating costs, inventory position and turn, margin and return on investment (ROI)
· Identified new business opportunities. Recognized future business opportunities to generate new business and sustain company growth.
o Successfully executed sponsorships of individuals, teams, events and competitions to increase company visibility and profile in the marketplace
o Created an incentive program by introducing a co-op program to all markets resulting in an immediate and sustained increase in marketing (varied between 25% - 200%)
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ARCHITECTURE
· Sales team development and management. Recruited, trained and managed a stable and aggressive global sales organization. Researched potential candidates through available and innovative resources provided extensive orientation of company and product line, developed and drove sales, marketing, and promotional objectives. Made frequent market visits and conducted yearly evaluations.
o Instituted quality procedures, practices, measurements and reporting results which improved company efficiencies and met or exceeded most if not all industry metrics
· Opened global offices in the U.K., Japan and Argentina. Streamlined local sales and regional marketing efforts. Set up budget, profit and loss controls, and determined operational needs, duties, requirements and responsibilities. Recruited and trained staff in all aspects of operations.
o Quickly improved market communications and enabled office (HQ) to work with sales network in closer proximity
· Spearheaded development of marketing support. Instituted marketing department to address sales team needs. Developed marketing collateral materials, sales tools, promotions/media campaigns and new packaging. Designated key trade shows for sales network to participate in that provided best marketing opportunities.
o Dominated markets with products strongly identified and recognized as major brands in overseas markets
RELEVANT HISTORY_____________________________________________
President/Owner, 2002– 2008
Quiznos Sub (multiple locations) – Portland, OR
Vice President, Sales and Marketing, 1999–2002
Prison Blues – Portland, OR
Director of International Sales, 1993–1999
Alpha Industries, Inc. – Chantilly, VA
Market Manager-Asia, 1990–1993
Sara Lee Corporation (Hanesbrands Inc. – Hanes, L’eggs, Champion Sportswear) – Winston-Salem, NC
Internship (Marketing / Research Dept.), 1989–1990
Kao Corporation – Tokyo, Japan
EDUCATION_____________________________________________________
Thunderbird School of Global Management – Glendale, AZ
Masters of Business Administration
Lewis and Clark College – Portland, OR
Bachelor of Arts – Business Management
“I create the blueprint to take a company international.”
13919 Venice Court s Oregon City, OR 97045
(503) 504.9117 s markross@bctonline.com
Global Sales, Marketing & Business Development
Senior level executive with demonstrated success in initiating, executing, and sustaining company revenue objectives in the global marketplace. Unique ability to penetrate new overseas markets by spearheading relationship development with key clients/partners and seizing revenue opportunities to achieve market dominance. Solid background of top-level decision making and oversight of all components of business development activities including sales architecture from ground-up, talent management, sales and marketing activities, strategic planning and fiscal management. Successful and results-driven individual with proven background in engineering new initiatives that positively affect company revenue opportunities and profitability.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
o Global Business Development and Strategy
o International Sales and Marketing
o Multi-Channel Retail Positioning
o Classic Brand / Product Management
o Factory Operations, Quality Control
o Strategic Planning & Market Analysis
o Product Lifecycle Management
o World-Wide Licensing Negotiations
o Sourcing, Supply Chain & Logistics
o Merchandising
o P&L Budget Responsibility
o Demand / Sales Forecasting
o Pricing, Margin, Discount, Mark-Up
o Global Top Tier Key Account Management
o Distributor / Sales Rep. Recruitment
o Media, PR, POP Development
o Corporate Trademark / IP Management
o Highly Proficient In Japanese Language
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE_____________________________________
INTERNATIONAL MARKET DEVELOPMENT
· Established new market distribution in Europe, Asia, and South America. Outlined specific target channels of distribution, developed ideal distributor, sales agent and/or retail profiles, prioritized markets to enter marketplace, conducted research and candidate evaluations, and made market-by-market entry decisions.
o Increased international sales from $5 million to $22 million in five years, achieving average annual sales growth of approximately 30%; established distribution in 35 countries
o Cross-functional (Fortune 50) team implemented sales and profitability plan growing business from $30 million to $100 million in Asia within six years (excluding acquisitions)
· Led new international product launches and licensing activities. Analyzed opportunities, market needs and requirements, researched partners and vendors, negotiated contracts/agreements including registration of trademarks, worked with key accounts on product specifications and launched ongoing sales and marketing efforts.
o New products contributed to an ongoing 6-8% yearly increase in sales
o Launched successful licensing programs in Europe, Japan and Argentina, generating royalties of $175,000 in the first full year (Disney, Harley-Davidson, Edwin Jeans)
· Increased market share in the global marketplace. Evaluated in-house capabilities, drafted proposals targeting specific opportunity markets, generated operational and sales budget requirements, and developed benefit/cost analysis as part of strategic planning covering a three-year period. Executed program through focused and targeted opportunities through tradeshows and advertising.
o Sustained average annual global sales growth exceeding 25% over 10 years with major branded companies by creating long-term viable and profitable partnerships in Europe, Asia and South America
o Generated sales in excess of $4-5 million in the first 18 months through awarded contracts in Pakistan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Denmark, Norway, Italy, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay
STRATEGIC PLANNING
· Created and implemented long-term business development vision. Developed vision and strategic planning for product positioning, sales growth and support, pricing, productivity and quality measurements. Set-up customer service/care infrastructure and systems. Managed and forecasted budgets ≥ $25 million.
o Identified, developed, implemented, evaluated and communicated long-range global sales and marketing programs that led to market share dominance within their respective retail segments
o Refined existing planning models to better predict sales volumes, operating costs, inventory position and turn, margin and return on investment (ROI)
· Identified new business opportunities. Recognized future business opportunities to generate new business and sustain company growth.
o Successfully executed sponsorships of individuals, teams, events and competitions to increase company visibility and profile in the marketplace
o Created an incentive program by introducing a co-op program to all markets resulting in an immediate and sustained increase in marketing (varied between 25% - 200%)
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ARCHITECTURE
· Sales team development and management. Recruited, trained and managed a stable and aggressive global sales organization. Researched potential candidates through available and innovative resources provided extensive orientation of company and product line, developed and drove sales, marketing, and promotional objectives. Made frequent market visits and conducted yearly evaluations.
o Instituted quality procedures, practices, measurements and reporting results which improved company efficiencies and met or exceeded most if not all industry metrics
· Opened global offices in the U.K., Japan and Argentina. Streamlined local sales and regional marketing efforts. Set up budget, profit and loss controls, and determined operational needs, duties, requirements and responsibilities. Recruited and trained staff in all aspects of operations.
o Quickly improved market communications and enabled office (HQ) to work with sales network in closer proximity
· Spearheaded development of marketing support. Instituted marketing department to address sales team needs. Developed marketing collateral materials, sales tools, promotions/media campaigns and new packaging. Designated key trade shows for sales network to participate in that provided best marketing opportunities.
o Dominated markets with products strongly identified and recognized as major brands in overseas markets
RELEVANT HISTORY_____________________________________________
President/Owner, 2002– 2008
Quiznos Sub (multiple locations) – Portland, OR
Vice President, Sales and Marketing, 1999–2002
Prison Blues – Portland, OR
Director of International Sales, 1993–1999
Alpha Industries, Inc. – Chantilly, VA
Market Manager-Asia, 1990–1993
Sara Lee Corporation (Hanesbrands Inc. – Hanes, L’eggs, Champion Sportswear) – Winston-Salem, NC
Internship (Marketing / Research Dept.), 1989–1990
Kao Corporation – Tokyo, Japan
EDUCATION_____________________________________________________
Thunderbird School of Global Management – Glendale, AZ
Masters of Business Administration
Lewis and Clark College – Portland, OR
Bachelor of Arts – Business Management
“I create the blueprint to take a company international.”
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