AIREST D. NEWSOME
*************@*****.***
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a career in visual merchandising that will allow me to utilize my
professional experience in order to serve as a profitable asset within an
organization.
EDUCATION
University North Carolina-Charlotte B. A., Communication Studies
Charlotte, NC
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
J.Crew
Charlotte, NC Visual Merchandiser
October 2010-Present
Responsible for planning and executing in-store events designed to drive
sales. Processing and merchandising new product in a timely manner in
order to promote sales. Developing creative window and in-store displays
that appeal to the J.Crew consumer. Maintain brand clarity through the
execution of companywide visual standards.
Forever 21
Charlotte, NC
Visual Merchandiser
November 2009-July 2010
Develop creative window and in-store displays that promote seasonal
product. Responsible for the overall look of the store, with the aim of
promoting goods in order to maximize sales and improving customer
experience. Develop floor plans for proper product placement and
responsible for store visual elements such as lighting, props and
accessories.
Charlotte Style Magazine
Charlotte, NC
Fashion and Beauty Managing Editor
September 2008-March 2009
Planned annual special events designed to build brand awareness for the
publication. Managed and supervised a team of editors while upholding the
mission statement of the publication. Responsible for forming the creative
direction of the department by developing fashion and beauty specific
content. Created strategic marketing and social media campaigns in order to
drive advertising sales. Managed email marketing campaigns and designed
editorial layout.
Prim Media Group
Charlotte, NC
Special Events Coordinator
January 2007-August 2008
Facilitated monthly team meetings and acted as primary contact for vendors,
guests, and clients. Responsible for planning special events and
activities that enhanced the brand awareness of Prim Media and clients.
Coordinated and monitored event timelines and reviewed client evaluations
for future improvements.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Special Event Planning
Over four years of experience planning special events within the retail
and non-profit sectors. Accustom to working in a fast-paced environment
with little to no supervision. I am capable of delivering high-end results
while staying within pre-established budgets. Well-versed in sponsorship
solicitation for the financial support of events. My personal relationship
with local and national media outlets ensure the highest level of brand
exposure for events planned under my supervision.
Office Administration
Over five years of office experience in a professional setting. Office
expertise includes; management of calendar, planning corporate meetings,
conference call arrangements, proactively managing itineraries, processing
expense reports, and professional contact maintenance. Proficient in the
use of computers, copiers, fax machines, software and other office
equipment.
SKILLS
Expert skill level with Indesign, Illustrator, Microsoft Office Suite:
Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Internet Explorer, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and
Microsoft Publisher. Most web design software. Trend forecasting.