Melissa Leonard

● Managed approximately $75M domestic and direct import inventory for retail/direct/contract channels ● Evaluated both automatic and manual replenishment processes by scrutinizing sales trends and managing vendor relationships, verifying accuracy in lead times to optimize stock levels ● Partnered with vendor partners, merchant teams, and other stakeholders to achieve shared objectives, reduce operational costs, and enhance customer satisfaction, fostering cohesive work environments ● Directed factories in China, Vietnam, and Cambodia regarding production, container optimization, MOV/MOQ negotiations, and sailing of product to meet set timelines for Retail inline Planograms, EBW, and Online orders ● Reviewed forecasts, fill rates, retail out of stocks and adjust strategies where necessary to maintain the best in-stock position to increase turns, minimize retail outs, and exceed customer expectations ● Used a collaborative approach to work with cross-functional teams across the company inclusive of merchandising, store planning, finance, and field representatives to ensure proper execution of company goals while also working with market-leading vendors. ● Maximized inventory turn and fill rate while minimizing service level and out-of-stock failures in all channels at a SKU level detail ● Optimized supply chain efficiency through strategic forecasting, inventory management, allocation, and supplier negotiations, ensuring timely product delivery for Retail and E-Commerce channels ● Updated processes by spearheading planning and management of inventory from SKU forecast development to purchase order execution for product lines, including backpacks/bags, lunch accessories, desk accessories, binders/filing, labels/labelers, and shredders ● Conducted in-depth analysis of inventory levels and assessed demand forecasting through statistical tools to maintain optimal inventory for departments and categories, effectively enhancing inventory turnover

● Instructed students in grades 6 through 8 on essential keyboarding and computer skills by leveraging engaging teaching methods, boosting students’ abilities in technology ● Facilitated training on Microsoft Office applications by employing real-world scenarios and projects, enabling students to apply knowledge and improve confidence in using software tools ● Educated students on safe Internet usage and online security by integrating interactive discussions and practical activities, fostering responsible digital citizenship, and protecting against online risks ● Delivered career and business-related skills instruction by incorporating industry insights and experiential learning opportunities, preparing students for future workforce challenges ● Chaired the Business Education and Information Technology department, managed three instructors, approved lesson plans, budgeted and trained new teachers.