Linden Foster
Startup Business Strategist · Gum Tree Studios
Encinitas, CAIn My Own Words
Systems: • Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel) *Advanced Excel* • Buying Systems: BOSaNOVA, QlikView • Creative Systems: Photoshop, Illustrator
Work Experience
Startup Business Strategist
Gum Tree Studios2020 – 2021
• Detailed market research, differentiation strategy, and marketing plan. • Created a formal business plan for the company – mission/vision statements, product line goals/guidelines, pricing analysis, expansion opportunities, timeline, business licensing and online setup, sourcing, financial breakeven timeline.
Associate Buyer - Retail
Billabong USA2017 – 2019
Developed and executed financial plans contributing to top line department goals. • Managed $6m business across women’s accessories, youth, hydration and sunscreen. • Produced 32% YOY growth in sunscreen business, 6% YOY growth in accessories business, and maintained flat comp for youth business on decreased door count. • Negotiated discount terms with external vendors, increasing GP. • Worked with planning, allocations, and operations teams to hit sales, turn, and inventory goals. Collaborated on product development and marketing in response to selling trends. • Reviewed monthly selling and brought feedback to design/sales team executives to contribute to line plan development. • Developed cobranded product with external vendors, including Hydro Flask and Sun Bum.
Assistant Buyer - Retail
Billabong USA2015 – 2017
- Manage youth and sunscreen categories across twenty doors with seasonal and A/O buys, replenishment, promotion plans, transfer strategies, SMU product, and merchandising. - Support six buyers through daily order entry, maintenance, and other various needs. - Master the BOSaNOVA and Qlikview retail and reporting systems. - Regularly run and report sales analysis to Global GM, VP of Sales, Design Director, and others. - Maintain positive relationships with internal teams and external vendors.
Assistant Manager, Merchandiser, Women's Buyer, Data Entry Specialist
ZJ Boarding House2013 – 2015
- Executed seasonal buys and launched social media marketing for the women’s department. - Responsible for administrative functions including PO entry and maintenance, vendor communications, and management of OTB. - Attended trade shows, scouted potential new brands, and forecasted industry trends. - Trained and managed a small team on POS systems and customer service skills.
Senior Customer Sales Associate
Anthropologie2010 – 2014
- Assisted the construction and development of visual displays and product merchandising. - Co-managed the sale department and markdown process. - Provided personalized customer service and styling for shoppers.
Co-Creator / Creative Director
Living People for Good / EMBRACEit2011 – 2012
- Developed product designs through sketches, Photoshop, and Illustrator. - Planed, organized, and directed look book photo shoots. - Provided extensive market research and implementation of marketing strategies.
Costume Designer
SDSU Student Film2012 – 2012
- Collaborated with the director to develop the psychological background of each character. - Sourced fabrics, found items, and accessories for costumes.
Education
Industries
Activity
Recent posts, comments and shares.