Michael Hart

Conceive, develop and execute key innovative and creative strategies in all business channels for retail, ecommerce, corporate, licensing and international business that support consistent business growth and propel corporate equity by articulating a strong value proposal and sustainable brand recognition. Initiate and execute key programs and initiatives in merchandising, marketing, operations, e-commerce and business development strategies that drive the business and elevate the brand while enhancing the total customer shopping experience and engagement. Successfully and continuously transform the business to a full Omni channel retail business focusing on elevating the customer experience, building brand loyalty, increasing market share and driving more traffic to both brick and mortar and on line. Improve the operating efficiencies and execution of continuous and never ending improvements in operations, logistics, supply chain, digital, marketing , packaging, branding, visual presentation and merchandising. Manage, maintain and coordinate all merchandising activities with marketing, branding, operations, logistics and operating systems. Ensure best practices and standard operating procedures are executed in taking the business to the next level and achieving the financial objectives under review by the Advisory Board.

Responsible for the overall Brand Management and Business Development Strategies. This includes initiating and executing innovative product development, brand management, merchandising and marketing strategies to support and build a strong brand. Manage, plan and identify growth opportunities and initiate strategic programs in further growing sales and leading sustained growth to the business.

Responsible for the overall and day to day operations, merchandising and business development strategies. Developed and executed innovative and strategic Merchandising, Operational, and Marketing initiatives, as well as creative product development and key sourcing partnerships. Managed and executed the Merchandising programs and plans in all categories by supporting merchandising growth opportunities, identify trends and change,margins, balanced inventories, planning and allocation. Initiate, develop and execute innovative strategies to help drive traffic and adapt to dynamic changes in the competitive environment by focusing on creative marketing strategies and delivering extreme value retailing in continuing to support the "ultimate enhanced customer shopping experience." Instrumental role in executing and implementing ERP, POS, WMS and MMS within a one year plan. Provided improved training programs to elevate customer experience, enhance added value and brand loyalty.

As President and CEO of eCommerce, responsibilities include defining and executing the eCommerce vision, branding and marketing strategies, which help define and shape the overall brand and image. Responsibilities included multiple functions in analyzing, recommending and executing strategic direction for the Internet properties that drive traffic, improve conversion and managing margin performance. Acting as a liason between IS and IT departments and vendors, financial institutions and legal requirements related to policy and confidentiality. Planning, assigning and appraising performance under the company's programs and resolving critical problems.

Responsible for leading the day-to-day operations and providing year over year consistent business growth by encompassing all functions of the operations including assortment planning, merchandising, store operations, strategic planning and procedures, new store locations, capital expenditures, budgeting, ERP implementation, systems, logistics, supply chain, marketing, branding, human resources, finance and board governance and relationships. Provided fiscal and strategic operational leadership to endure ‘best practices” in procedures and controls contributing to improved performance and increased shareholder equity. Lead key innovative programs to support continuous improvements and improved operational efficiencies for successful and sustained growth achievements. Developed and implemented strong and innovative merchandising and operational strategies including key product statements and creative ideas that focus on driving traffic, increasing sales and consistent profit growth. Delivered strong growth from new store expansion and major acquisitions as a national leader and dominant player in many tertiary and secondary markets. Doubled the top line growth in one year more than the combined 20 years. Focused on innovative and creative marketing, advertising, and in store planning and presentation creating the “Wow” ultimate shopping experience. Motivating relationships throughout the company in preserving core values while seeking out input from all associates for ideas and improvements to be successful. Established well respected relationships with industry, people, valued suppliers and all business partners. Recognized for the Top 30 growth publicly traded. Top 500 Canadian growth companies. Received Ernst and Young nomination for Best turnaround and transformational entrepreneur. Provided excellent leadership skills in instilling peoples’ creativity to drive business growth and developing a strong culture for the management and executive team.

Supervised and managed various departments in both apparel and hard lines including purchasing, planning, selection, category management, budgets and execution of in store planning. Built a strong merchandising team including buyers and assistant buyers to improve assortment planning and developing key new initiatives for inventory control procedures. Expanded new product lines in areas of fashion, home, seasonal, gift and life style as well as creating department for close outs and opportunity buys. Grew company’s sales by an average growth rate of 5.5% per year over a 10 year period with improved margins and increased turnovers. Responsible for the planning of all advertising and all marketing strategies. Managing multiple projects and prioritizing while keeping controls on expenses and budgets. Strong negotiating skills with suppliers in establishing advantageous terms and discounts.

Internship as Auditor for Chartered Accounting Firm for Retail Clients.