Alisa Preston

Specializing in paper and paper bag purchasing on a global level. Partnering with vendors globally to provide companies with high quality, functional, and well branded packaging.

Cultivating strong business and network relationships to find opportunities in Vendor Relations, Supply Chain, Category & Procurement Actively pursuing certifications to enhance expertise and contribute your company's growth Available for income and relocation negotiations, with a comprehensive portfolio including resume, cover letter, references, and letters of recommendation.

Oversee a portfolio of 85+ vendors and their inventory (4MM+ quarterly) across the Northwest and Southern U.S. to maintain seamless supply chain operations. Reduce inherited aged inventory by returning $100K+ through negotiation with vendors, resulting in efficient inventory management and prevention of product dumping. Strengthen vendor relationships to drive fulfillment efficiency to achieve zero product shrink and supply reliability. Forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and prepare for promotions, holidays, and market fluctuations to maintain a high fulfillment rate (85-90%) and optimal inventory turnover (20-25 days). Direct inventory management for new product launches and category resets to ensure timely deliveries and alignment with strategic business goals. Learn and collaborate by celebrating and embracing diversity, acknowledging individuals and their value Maintain inventory accuracy to consistently meet inventory targets with aged stock averaging only 4-8%. Negotiated and increased vendor fulfillment from 40% to 90% by discussing solutions and utilizing other warehouses. Eliminated shrink by effectively communicating with vendor to return short-dated product.

Led five sub-teams as Acting Manager and Associate Manager, successfully overseeing daily operations, scheduling, and team priorities, leading to increased sales and improved performance. Orchestrated the transition of the department to a new facility maintaining spoilage below 3% and operational continuity. Leveraged cross-merchandising, strategic product selection, and budget assessments to consistently exceed sales forecasts. Optimized inventory management, ensuring accurate stock levels and using data-driven merchandising techniques to drive revenue growth. Increased profitability by 2-3% with external market analysis and proactive sales strategies. Elevated procurement operations by becoming a strategic advisor/trainer for the heads of purchasing from regional locations. Generated “first in the region” designation through focused product marketing that also resulted in a 5th national ranking and increased sales. Earned recognition as a Certified Cheese Professional, joining an elite group of approximately 1,350 experts worldwide. Established a thriving alcoholic beverage department, resulting in weekly sales of $75,000 & a loyal customer base within 6 months by conducting product research, developing plan-o-grams, and training team members. Championed diversity and inclusion by fostering a supportive work environment by recognizing individual accomplishments. Revamped merchandising and display strategies that resulted in a 3% increase in store profits and approximately $125,000 in weekly sales. Mentored team members to facilitate career development and guide employees to management who were known to optimize workflows and efficiencies. Redeveloped and maintained Production Acquisition Report guides to ensure accurate inventory tracking and procurement. Managed global planogram directives that aligned merchandising strategies with corporate standards. Developed an educational program on the food supply chain to local high school students.

Graduate Assistant, printmaking, book arts and papermaking