ERIKA CONKLIN
Taylors, SC *****
Phone: 864-***-****
Email: *********@*****.***
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Entrepreneurial business owner, designer, and retail professional with extensive experience in brand development, product design, sales management, customer service, marketing, and business operations. Proven success building and growing a recognized equestrian lifestyle brand while leveraging strong relationship-building, creative problem-solving, and operational leadership skills. Combines a passion for the equestrian industry with expertise in retail, merchandising, marketing, and customer engagement.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Owner & Designer
Equine & Design, LLC January 2017 - Present
●Founded and developed a successful equestrian-inspired lifestyle brand specializing in custom apparel, accessories, drinkware, gifts, and promotional products.
●Design and oversee production of branded merchandise, custom products, and seasonal collections.
●Manage all aspects of business operations including product development, sourcing, inventory management, budgeting, and vendor relations.
●Create and execute marketing campaigns across social media, email marketing, digital platforms, and live events.
●Develop strategic partnerships with equestrian organizations, retailers, and industry professionals.
●Manage e-commerce operations, online merchandising, customer experience, and fulfillment processes.
●Coordinate participation in trade shows, equestrian events, and promotional activations.
●Design marketing materials and brand assets to maintain a consistent and recognizable brand identity.
●Analyze sales performance and customer feedback to identify growth opportunities and product expansion strategies.
Sales & Customer Service Manager
The Farm House Tack Store Landrum, SC September 2009 - June 2014
●Managed daily retail operations for a leading equestrian retailer serving customers nationwide.
●Delivered exceptional customer service and sales support, resulting in strong customer loyalty and repeat business.
●Developed relationships with trainers, riders, equestrian professionals, and vendors throughout the industry.
●Assisted customers with product selection, fitting, and purchasing decisions across a wide range of equestrian products.
●Trained and supervised staff on product knowledge, customer service standards, and sales techniques.
●Managed inventory control, merchandising, stock replenishment, and visual presentation.
●Supported promotional campaigns, special events, and vendor partnerships to drive sales growth.
●Resolved customer concerns and maintained a high standard of customer satisfaction.
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Biology
University of South Carolina
Minor: Psychology
Athletic Achievement
NCAA Women's Equestrian Team Athlete
●Competed as a Division I NCAA student-athlete.
●Demonstrated leadership, discipline, teamwork, and time-management skills while balancing rigorous academic and athletic commitments.
●Represented the university in collegiate equestrian competition.
CORE COMPETENCIES
●Business Development
●Brand Management
●Product Design & Development
●Retail Operations
●Sales Leadership
●Customer Relationship Management
●Marketing & Advertising
●Social Media Marketing
●E-Commerce Management
●Event Planning & Coordination
●Vendor Relations
●Inventory Management
●Team Leadership
●Strategic Partnerships
●Graphic Design
●Project Management
INDUSTRY EXPERTISE
●Equestrian Retail
●Lifestyle Branding
●Custom Merchandise
●Apparel & Accessories
●Promotional Products
●Trade Shows & Events
●Customer Experience
●Small Business Management