Heather Stephan
Mesa,Az
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at Old Navy, excelling in operations management and team building. Proven track record in enhancing profitability through strategic planning and effective training programs. Skilled in P&L management and problem resolution, fostering high employee satisfaction and driving sales growth in competitive environments.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Old Navy
Tempe, Arizona
10.2022 - Current
- Developed understanding of operational processes and procedures to support daily management activities.
- Assisted in implementing training programs for staff to enhance service delivery and team performance.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a safe and efficient working environment.
- Gained proficiency with company's SOP's to streamline operational workflows.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately.
- Directed comprehensive sales efforts to exceed revenue targets consistently while maintaining customer satisfaction levels.
- Implemented robust inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and minimize waste/costs associated with excess product storage.
Property Manager
Chamberlin and Associates
07.2019 - 10.2022
- Managed tenant communications, addressing concerns and enhancing satisfaction levels.
- Coordinated property maintenance schedules, ensuring timely completion of repairs and upkeep.
- Implemented leasing strategies, optimizing occupancy rates through targeted marketing initiatives.
- Conducted routine property inspections, identifying issues and facilitating prompt resolutions.
- Developed and maintained relationships with vendors, negotiating contracts for services to reduce costs.
- Oversaw financial reporting for properties, analyzing expenses to identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Trained junior staff on operational procedures, promoting consistency in property management practices.
District Manager
Rue 21
Mesa, Arizona
07.2014 - 07.2019
- Directed operational strategies to enhance district performance and achieve company objectives.
- Managed cross-functional teams to ensure consistent execution of policies and procedures.
- Analyzed market trends to identify growth opportunities and optimize resource allocation.
- Implemented training programs that improved staff productivity and customer service standards.
- Collaborated with senior leadership to develop strategic plans for district expansion initiatives.
- Oversaw budget management, ensuring adherence to financial targets while maximizing profitability.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement through regular performance evaluations and feedback sessions.
- Ensured compliance with company policies and procedures as well as federal/state regulations by conducting regular audits of operational practices at each location within the district.
- Oversaw successful store openings, coordinating logistics, staffing, training, and promotional efforts to ensure smooth transitions for new locations.
- Fostered an environment of open communication between management teams across the district to share best practices in operations optimization and problem-solving techniques.
- Implemented risk-management protocols for loss prevention, leading to a consistent decrease in shrinkage rates across the district.
- Reduced turnover rates by implementing proactive retention strategies designed to address potential employee concerns before they escalated into resignations or terminations.
- Promoted culture of accountability, setting clear expectations and conducting regular performance evaluations.
- Analyzed sales data to identify growth opportunities and areas for improvement across district.
Store Manager
American Eagle
06.2008 - 07.2014
- Directed daily operations, ensuring optimal store performance and customer satisfaction.
- Mentored staff, fostering professional development and enhancing team productivity.
- Implemented inventory management systems, improving stock accuracy and reducing shrinkage.
- Analyzed sales trends to develop strategic merchandising plans that increased revenue.
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
- Assisted with hiring, training and mentoring new staff members.
- Improved customer satisfaction through staff training in customer service and product knowledge.
- Maintained proper product levels and inventory controls for merchandise and organized backroom to facilitate effective ordering and stock rotation.
- Completed point of sale opening and closing procedures.
- Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
- Maximized sales by creating innovative visual merchandising displays and store layouts.
Skills
- Leadership and team building
- Problem resolution
- Operations management
- Training and coaching
- P&L management
- Employee development
- Recruitment
- Performance analysis
Accomplishments
Ended #1 in the district for our loyalty results in 2024. Have been nominated for the last 2 years to be our district loyalty champion.
2018 helped launch the Regional Recruiter program out to the company where we selected 14 store managers to participate. When I left the company we had 30 members.
2012 broke record holiday sales. Won a disney cruise and became a Gold & Diamond member.
Timeline
General Manager
Old Navy
10.2022 - Current
Property Manager
Chamberlin and Associates
07.2019 - 10.2022
District Manager
Rue 21
07.2014 - 07.2019
Store Manager
American Eagle
06.2008 - 07.2014