Senior Forecasting Manager

Posted on: 2010-09-30

LEONORA SCALA 218 Sheldon Ave., Staten Island, NY 10312 DIRECTOR OF MERCHANDISING & PRODUCT PLANNING Marketing / Forecasting / Channels / Growth Strategies / Pricing / B2C / Catalog Sales / Global Markets / Product Development / Promotions / Launches / Inventory Control / Supply Chain / Outsourcing / CRM A results-oriented global merchandising and planning leader I have developed end- to-end, award-winning strategies for new product introduction, brand activation and rapid multimillion-dollar revenue growth. Thrive in high-pressure, dynamic competitive conditions. Whether challenged to streamline product development and merchandising processes, devise and execute global procurement strategies, raise brand awareness or build global, cross-functional teams, I can readily contribute by: - Consistently delivering strong and sustainable results - Meeting customer needs with well- designed marketing plans - Sourcing margin-supportive products to meet corporate goals - Implementing strategies to improve market share and brand recognition An action-oriented leader with high personal drive, I earned a BA in Mathematics & Economics from Fordham University. I have received both the NOVA Award for Breakout Growth and the Navigator Award for Winning with Commercial Edge from Avon. CAREER HISTORY Avon Products, $10B producer of cosmetics, fragrances and non-beauty accessories. Senior Forecasting Manager, Recruited in 2009. Managed five business units, spanning manufacturing, direct sales, and distribution of jewelry, watches, apparel and accessories, with revenues to $700M. Evaluated financial and marketing impact for 26 annual merchandise campaigns. Ensured optimal procurement spend. Senior Merchandising Manager, 1998-2009. Developed merchandising programs, collaborating with internal groups on collateral, campaigns, and promotions for a $300M apparel, accessory, and foundation division. Senior Sales Forecaster, 1996-1998. Responsible for analyzing merchandising and marketing campaign plans, category launch events, and sales data to identify gaps, business risks, and emerging opportunities. Earlier: Steady promotions from Senior Product/Costing Analyst to Merchandising Planner, Color Cosmetics  PLC and Merchandise Planning Manager. Previously: Assistant Treasurer and Costing Analyst, Chase Manhattan Bank. Financial Analyst, Manufacturers Hanover Commercial Corp. Personal: I enjoy gardening, reading, activities related to dogs, fitness programs, music and arts.