Melissa Freebern

Merchandise Manager - Soft Lines Departments

Professional Overview

Melissa Freebern is an experienced retail professional with a strong background in merchandising and operations management. As the Merchandise Manager for the Soft Lines Departments at Hobby Lobby, she leverages her expertise in product curation, inventory optimization, and strategic planning to drive growth and profitability in her business segment.

Experience Summary

Current Role

Merchandise Manager - Soft Lines Departments, Hobby Lobby (2007 - Present)

• Oversee the merchandising, inventory management, and sales performance of the Soft Lines departments, including fabrics, crafts, and home decor

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement effective merchandising strategies, optimize product assortments, and enhance the customer experience

• Analyze sales data, market trends, and consumer behavior to make informed decisions about product selection, pricing, and promotions

• Lead a team of buyers and department managers to ensure seamless execution of merchandising initiatives and efficient inventory management

Career Progression

Buyer - Fabric/Notions Department, Hobby Lobby (2007)

• Responsible for product selection, procurement, and inventory management for the Fabric and Notions departments

• Developed strong relationships with vendors and leveraged market insights to curate a compelling product assortment

Desktop Applications Analyst, Hertz Corporation (2005 - 2007)

• Provided technical support and process improvement recommendations for the company's desktop applications and systems

Owner, Starting From Scraps - Scrapbook Store (2003 - 2005)

• Established and managed a successful scrapbook and craft supplies store, gaining valuable entrepreneurial experience

Information Analyst, IBM (2001 - 2003)

• Analyzed data and provided insights to support business decision-making for the organization

Academic Background

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, specialization in Management Information Systems, University of Oklahoma

Areas of Expertise

• Retail merchandising and operations management

• Inventory optimization and supply chain management

• Data analysis and strategic decision-making

• Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership

• Adaptability and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment

Professional Impact

• Consistently exceeded departmental sales and profitability targets, contributing to the overall growth and success of Hobby Lobby

• Spearheaded the implementation of a new inventory management system, leading to a 15% reduction in stock-outs and improved customer satisfaction

• Recognized as a subject matter expert within the organization, frequently consulted on strategic initiatives and best practices

Conclusion

With her exceptional blend of retail expertise, analytical skills, and dynamic leadership, Melissa Freebern is poised to continue driving innovation and success in the Soft Lines departments at Hobby Lobby. Her commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences and driving operational excellence make her a valuable asset to the organization.