Maria Salazar Levin

Reduced mark-downs for both DOS & wholesale by 50% in Year 1. Re-launched the brand back to its "premium denim" status. Repositioning the brand distribution back into all major department stores. Partnered with new women's design and merchandising team to incorporate "denim essentials" back in the collection, resulting in increased penetration of denim RTW to denim. Increased penetration of men's core denim from 30% to 70% in two years, resulting in higher margins and lower end of season payouts to retailers.

Strategic driver of sales and marketing in South, Central & North America. Exceeded sales expectations, while decreasing expenses. Leading negotiations for continued conversion of generic spaces into Shop in shops, branded spaces. Created a new format for ready-to-wear events leading to a more successful ROI in the Couture Ready-to-Wear division. Reduced client contribution agreements while removing consignment orders thus improving the bottom line.

Strategic brand positioning. Negotiated for new shop in shop corners in key department stores - Focus on growing the business by presenting the brand in the best possible manner with all product extensions, including, footwear, bags and sportswear. Focused on product placement in key luxury department & independent stores. Focus on strategic growth to maintain highest possible sell-thrus at retail and minimize mark-downs.

Luxury Marketing group with a focus on helping fashion brands that have a need to grow, market and expand their business.

Full accountability for managing the business from strategic planning of budgets through EOS profitability, including projections of purchases. Managing and reacting to selling thus influencing line development. Increase the wholesale volume 6.5 times while maintaining a positive P&L and staying on margin plan. Opened 200 points of distribution and expanded Dior presence by negotiating and attainting space for shop-in-shops at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales & Saks Fifth Avenue. Launched and established distribution for handbags, men’s, intimate apparel, swim & baby. Sourced a wholesale system that enabled sales team to receive sales electronically, track orders and shipping, bringing all logistical areas of the business together.