Kathy Mays - Experienced Fragrance Buyer
Professional Overview
Kathy Mays is an accomplished Fragrance Buyer with over 15 years of experience in the retail industry. She leverages her deep expertise in product selection, category management, and vendor negotiations to drive growth and profitability for Dillard's Inc., a leading department store chain.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Fragrance Buyer at Dillard's Inc., Kathy is responsible for curating a highly successful fragrance portfolio that caters to the diverse preferences of the company's customer base. In this role, she collaborates closely with vendors to identify emerging trends, negotiate favorable terms, and optimize product assortments across Dillard's retail locations. Kathy's strategic decision-making and data-driven approach have been instrumental in enhancing the fragrance category's profitability and positioning Dillard's as a premier destination for luxury and prestige fragrances.
Career Progression
Kathy's career at Dillard's Inc. has been marked by a steady progression of increasing responsibilities. She joined the company in 2005 as an Executive Assistant, quickly demonstrating her exceptional organizational skills and business acumen. In 2012, Kathy transitioned into the role of Assistant Buyer, where she honed her product selection and category management expertise. Her outstanding performance in this role led to her promotion to Buyer in 2021, and subsequently to her current position as Fragrance Buyer in 2025.
Academic Background
Kathy holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Retail Management from the University of Arkansas, where she graduated with honors. Her specialized coursework in merchandising, consumer behavior, and supply chain management has provided a strong foundation for her success in the retail industry.
Areas of Expertise
- Fragrance category management
- Product selection and curation
- Vendor negotiations and partnership development
- Retail operations and logistics
- Data-driven decision-making and performance analysis
- Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership
Professional Impact
As a Fragrance Buyer, Kathy has consistently exceeded sales and profitability targets for the fragrance category at Dillard's. Her ability to identify emerging trends and curate a compelling product assortment has contributed to a significant increase in customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Kathy's strategic initiatives have also led to the successful launch of several exclusive fragrance collections, further enhancing Dillard's reputation as a premier destination for luxury and prestige fragrances.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, proven track record of success, and a deep passion for the retail industry, Kathy Mays is poised to continue making significant contributions to Dillard's Inc. as a highly valued Fragrance Buyer. Her strategic vision, analytical expertise, and strong vendor relationships position her as a key driver of growth and profitability within the fragrance category.
