Steve Cruz
Merrillville
Summary
Proactive professional specializing in inventory management and employee development. Expertise in enhancing store performance through efficient operations and effective merchandising strategies. Results-driven Assistant Store Director with a proven track record in inventory oversight, employee training, and budget management. Demonstrated ability to improve customer satisfaction and implement successful merchandising initiatives. Proactive professional with a strong background in inventory management and employee development. Committed to enhancing store performance through efficient operations and effective merchandising strategies, ensuring compliance and customer satisfaction.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
Chicago
04.2023 - Current
- Managed daily store operations, including opening, closing, and cash handling procedures.
- Coordinated inventory management and product placement to maximize sales.
- Trained new employees on store policies and operational procedures.
- Oversaw merchandising strategies aligned with seasonal promotions and trends.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and recommend improvements.
- Resolved customer complaints professionally to enhance satisfaction.
- Monitored compliance with health and safety regulations consistently.
- Facilitated team meetings to communicate objectives and updates effectively.
Interim Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
Mishawaka
06.2025 - 09.2025
- Oversaw daily store operations and ensured compliance with company standards.
- Managed inventory levels and coordinated product replenishment across departments.
- Trained and mentored staff on customer service and product knowledge.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and adjust merchandising strategies.
- Met budget targets by controlling expenses and eliminating wasteful behaviors.
- Oversaw inventory management through cycle counts, audits and shrinkage control.
- Conducted weekly meetings with staff members to ensure that goals were being met in a timely manner.
Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
Downers Grove
04.2021 - 04.2023
- Oversaw daily store operations and ensured compliance with company policies.
- Managed team scheduling and delegated tasks to enhance productivity.
- Trained staff on customer service standards and product knowledge.
- Implemented visual merchandising strategies to improve store presentation.
- Hired, trained, and supervised store personnel including cashiers, stockers, department managers, and assistant directors.
Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
Naperville
06.2020 - 04.2021
- Oversaw daily store operations and ensured compliance with company policies.
- Managed team scheduling and delegated tasks to enhance productivity.
- Coordinated inventory management and maintained optimal stock levels.
Education
Associate of Science - Business Management, Marketing
Davenport University
Merrillville, IN06-1992
Skills
- Inventory management and visual merchandising
- Budget oversight
- Employee training and motivation
- Customer relationship management
- Cash handling and shrink management
- Operational compliance
- Team leadership
- Data-driven decision making
- Promotional planning and store operations
- Recruitment and hiring
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Interim Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
06.2025 - 09.2025
Assistant Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
04.2023 - Current
Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
04.2021 - 04.2023
Store Director
Fresh Thyme Market
06.2020 - 04.2021
Associate of Science - Business Management, Marketing
Davenport University