nicole houle

Build brand from inception focusing on new business development in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic markets for all channels of trade, including foodservice.

Business development specifically targeting the natural independent, supernatural and supermarket channels on the East Coast of the United States. Targeted growth and management of the Whole Foods North Atlantic and Northeast Regions. Managed broker and distributor representatives, as well as the National Cooperative Grocer's Association.

Focused on account management and business development, specifically targeting the beverage end use market. Given the complexity and size of the Kerry portfolio of taste and nutrition products, I strive for better knowledge of the entire Kerry portfolio, allowing me to offer my customers the most innovative, cost-effective and/or convenient solution to best fit their needs. Look to new development and innovation, as well as the industry's best market insight, so that I can further offer value to assist my customers with both their short and long term commercial objectives.

Worked from a sales support role to become a Territory Manager, which was part of a direct sales force compiled by UNFI for their company owned brands (Blue Marble Brands). As a territory manager, I managed the Eastern New England territory, directly interacting with Natural independent food stores. Consistently ranked number one amongst my peers as the top-performing territory manager as measured against our monthly KPIs.

Long term strategic planning, business development, relationship management

Semester Abroad in London- While I took a few core communications classes, my main goal was to soak in as much theater, music and culture as possible, which I did by attending some form of theater at least a few times a week, as well as visiting museums, galleries and all of the common and not so common historical landmarks of the UK. I also went pony trekking in Wales, despite having never riden a horse.

Focus on Mediated Communication, co-authoring an article in the Communication Research Reports: Volume 23, Number 1 in February 2006, entitled, 21st Century Ratings Creep: PG-13 and R Activities and Societies: * Lambda Epsilon Sigma Honor Society * Lambda Pi Eta Communications Honor Society * Ronald J. Fraser Award in Communication