Stephen Blackband

At Whitedot, I was responsible for driving sales and forging new partnerships within the outdoor sports and apparel sector. My role involved working closely with distributors, retailers, and brand ambassadors to expand Whitedot’s reach and market presence. Built strong relationships with distributors and retail partners to enhance product visibility and drive sales in the outdoor apparel market. Collaborated with product teams to ensure alignment of sales strategies with the brand’s core identity and market positioning. Identified and pursued new partnership opportunities, expanding Whitedot’s footprint in emerging markets and elevating its brand presence. Managed key accounts, ensuring strong communication and high levels of satisfaction, while consistently exceeding sales targets. Developed and implemented strategies that supported the company’s long-term goals, including brand awareness and customer retention.

Worked with business owners business to develop plan for strategic retail growth of a start-up athletic outdoor apparel brand Developed and implemented retail sales strategy from inception Identified, cultivated and maintained relationships with retail account buyers/owners Serviced accounts inline with clients needs, through sales/order tracking and targeted areas for business growth Facilitated education of retail staff on the company products and identity Managed territory travel on limited budget Collaborated in grass roots marketing campaigns, assisted with digital marketing including email and social media

Assisted business owner with the conception of print and digital campaigns, including drip marketing and strategic promotions for web design and creative photography business Assisted with the fulfillment of photo retouching, creation of print material and creative email elements, using Adobe Creative Suite Assisted with shoot management, timing, set up and break down Acted as client liaison for business during shoots and office hours

Used consultative sales process consistently closing new business, hitting sales targets and goals Developed new opportunity sales leads through cold calling, prospecting for business and email marketing strategy Presented products to new and existing customer base Advised account holders on product selection for best fit business needs and increased HomeAdvisor’s account retention Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software Knowledgeable in Pipeline/Prospect management, building and developing relationships and referrals for business growth

Created, managed and assessed an extensive staff-training program, successfully improving company’s 5-star service standards, technical knowledge and sales abilities, all within a set budget Developed and delivered program that significantly improved team member technical knowledge, product comprehension, sales, and customer service skills Increased sell through for other departmental products and services Upon assessment of company needs, worked through multiple departments and personnel, training frontline staff and communicating with department leads to improve the delivery of sales, service and marketing exposure for specific identified products Liaised with brands and their representatives and encouraged partner relationships to provide further development opportunities Initiated the development of scholarship funds to assist staff receive continued professional development Delivered presentations through various means, including; live presentations (small and large group format), web and video

Assisted with training retail team members, guides and rental staff, included programing and liaising with outside agencies for training program delivery Managed inventory and staffing of 3 high volume locations, ensured high-level guest service and timely delivery for tours Executed retail, tour and rental operation sales from initial customer contact thru sale completion Worked with brand representatives and store management to create consumer displays, improving product presence and sell thru Assisted customers with warranty and product returns

Golf course maintenance. Bunkers, fairways, approach, rough and Greens.

Taught group and private lessons Consistently up-sold lessons with self-marketing, sustaining a high level of customer satisfaction. Developed and maintained a regular clientele by building strong relationships, maintaining connections through emails and social media. Taught and attended training sessions to peer instructors while working toward the PSIA Trainers Accreditation