Robert Sparkman
**** ****** ***** **. **********, FL 33761
www.linkedin.com/in/robertsparkman
727-***-**** *************@*****.***
Employment History
B.J’S Wholesale, Tampa, FL
Receiving/Inventory Control Manager/Loss Prevention/Safety Manager (Mar 2006 – Oct
2010) Family Dollar Pinellas Park, FL
Store Manager (Jan 2001 – Mar 2006)
Abbey Springs Country Club Fontana, WI
District Manager (Oct 1994 – May 2001)
Geneva Lake Law Enforcement, Lake Geneva
Chief of Police Boat (Oct 1994 – May 2001)
Professional Profile
Robert Sparkman is a visionary and goal-oriented Operations & Store Management Executive with 25+ years of experience in retail management. He has managed multi-unit operations in retail, grocery and convenience store operations with full P&L responsibility. Robert excels in providing direction for retail operations and implementing operational improvements to increase efficiencies. He has a proven track record of driving and implementing process improvements, controlling expenses, and effectively managing merchandise. Robert's key areas of expertise include strategic planning, P&L management, sales & marketing management, process optimization, cost control, leadership & people management, and cross-functional team leadership. Currently, Robert serves as the Location Manager at Nautical Boat Club, Irmo, SC and has held previous positions such as Operations Manager at Burlington, Tampa, FL and Store Manager at Sketchers USA, Ellenton, FL. Objective
A motivated and experienced professional seeking a challenging role as a Director of Sales or Operations in a dynamic organization. With a proven track record in managing teams, driving operational efficiencies, and delivering results, I am confident in my ability to make a significant contribution to your company. My experience in the retail and hospitality industries, along with my expertise in managing multiple locations, has honed my leadership and problem-solving skills. I am eager to leverage my knowledge and skills to drive growth and enhance customer satisfaction in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Experience
Nautical Boat Crmo SC Nov 2019 - Jan 2023 Location Manager
As the Location Manager at the Nautical Boat Club in Irmo, SC, I have honed my skills in customer service, team management, and operations. Since November 2019, I have been responsible for overseeing all aspects of the club's day-to-day operations, including maintenance, staffing, and member relations. I work closely with the club's members to ensure they have an exceptional boating experience, and I am always looking for ways to improve the club's offerings and facilities.
One of my main responsibilities is ensuring the club's boats and equipment are well-maintained and ready for use. I manage a team of technicians and mechanics responsible for keeping the boats and equipment in top condition. I also work with suppliers and vendors to ensure that the club has the necessary supplies and parts to keep everything running smoothly.
In addition to managing the club's operations, I am responsible for maintaining positive relationships with the club's members. I ensure that the club's facilities and services meet the members' needs, and I address any concerns they may have. I am always looking for ways to improve the club's offerings and create an even more enjoyable boating experience for our members.
Overall, my experience as the Location Manager at the Nautical Boat Club has given me a unique opportunity to apply my leadership and management skills in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. I am proud to be part of a team dedicated to providing an exceptional boating experience for our members. Sep 2016 - Nov 2019
Burlington, Tampa, FL
Operations Manager
As Operations Manager at Burlington in Tampa, FL, I was responsible for overseeing daily store operations, ensuring efficient and effective processes to meet business goals. I supervised a team of associates and managed inventory control, loss prevention, and compliance with company policies and procedures. I collaborated with the store management team to drive sales and maintain a high level of customer satisfaction. I also led efforts to streamline store operations and implement new systems to increase productivity and efficiency. During my tenure, the store consistently achieved and exceeded performance targets, demonstrating my ability to lead and motivate teams towards success. I gained valuable experience in team management, problem-solving, and operations optimization that I believe will be an asset to future employers.
Sketchers USA. Ellenton, FL
Store Manager
As the Store Manager at Sketchers USA in Ellenton, FL, I was responsible for overseeing daily operations and ensuring exceptional customer service. My main duties included supervising a team of sales associates, managing inventory levels, and implementing effective sales strategies to meet sales targets. I also handled scheduling, training, and performance evaluations of team members, fostering a positive and productive work environment. Through effective leadership and clear communication, I was able to increase sales, reduce turnover, and improve overall store performance. Additionally, I provided customers with product knowledge, resolved customer complaints, and ensured a clean and well-maintained store. My experience at Sketchers USA has equipped me with strong leadership skills, excellent problem-solving abilities, and the ability to drive results in a fast-paced retail environment.
Speedway Inc., Tampa, FL
General Manager
As General Manager at Speedway Inc. in Tampa, FL, I oversaw all day-to-day operations of the store. This included managing a team of employees, ensuring the highest level of customer service, and meeting sales targets. My responsibilities also included managing inventory levels, overseeing the maintenance of store equipment and facilities, and implementing marketing and promotional strategies to increase sales. I was known for my leadership skills and ability to motivate my team to achieve great results, evident in our consistent delivery of positive sales growth. Additionally, I effectively communicated with upper management, suppliers, and customers to ensure the smooth operation of the store. My expertise in the retail industry, strong business acumen, and ability to drive results made me a valuable asset to Speedway Inc. Thornton’s Inc. Clearwater, FL
Store Manager
As a Store Manager at Thornton's Inc. in Clearwater, FL, I was responsible for overseeing daily operations of the store, ensuring customer satisfaction and promoting a positive work environment for my team. I was in charge of implementing sales strategies to drive revenue and achieve sales targets, while also managing inventory, schedules, and budgets.
I was highly skilled in customer service, resolving customer complaints and conflicts, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. I also trained and coached new hires, and consistently evaluated their performance to ensure they were meeting expectations and contributing to the success of the store. My strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and ability to motivate my team allowed me to successfully maintain high levels of productivity, sales, and customer satisfaction. My experience at Thornton's Inc. helped me to hone my skills in managing operations, improving processes, and ensuring a smooth and efficient store environment.
Military Experience
United States Marine Corps, Honolulu, HI (Jun 1986 – Oct 199) Team Leader “Operation Desert Storm”
During my time in the United States Marine Corps, I served as a Team Leader during Operation Desert Storm. This was a highly intense and challenging experience, as I was responsible for leading a team of marines through various missions in a combat zone. I was tasked with ensuring the safety and well-being of my team, as well as ensuring the success of each mission we undertook. I developed strong leadership skills, as well as the ability to make quick and effective decisions in high-pressure situations. Additionally, my time in the military taught me the importance of teamwork, as well as the value of hard work and dedication. I am proud to have served my country, and I will always carry the lessons and experiences I gained in the military throughout my life.
2016 - Present
2009 – 2013
Education
M.B.A. (Business Management)
B.A. (Business Management)
Professional Accomplishments
At Nautical Boat Club, I successfully increased the sales revenue by $250,000 while reducing operating expenses by 10%.
At Burlington, I significantly boosted sales by $1 million, the largest increase over the yearly plan (18% over yearly and 12% over plan). I also minimized the store turnover rate by 50% in 2017 and yearly expenses by
$75,000.
At Sketchers USA, I accelerated store sales in 2015 through a strong marketing campaign and increased foot traffic. I also reduced the location's yearly expenses by $65,000. Professional Skills
Strategic Planning
Operations Management
Retail Management
Store Management
Financial Management
P&L Management
Sales & Marketing Management Merchandising
Process Optimization
Materials Management
Cost Control
Inventory Management
Relationship Management
Operational Excellence
Vendor Relations
Recruitment
Training & Development
Safety Management
Leadership & People Management
Team Management
Quality Control
Cross-functional Team Leadership
Liaison & Coordination
Technical Skills
Microsoft office
Excel
Word
PowerPoint
Internet
Explorer.
Memberships
Business Professionals of America
National Association of Chief of Police
Education Professionals Associations & Organizations National Strength and Conditioning Association
National Retail Sales Association
Certifications
Drexel University
1. Accounting Fundamentals for Small Businesses
2. Budgeting and Financial Analysis for Small Business 3. Introduction to Small Business Management