Lee Butman
Red Lion
Summary
Seasoned Purchasing Manager with a proven track record at Diamond Comic Distributors Inc., adept in contract negotiation and fostering robust business relationships. Spearheaded market analysis strategies, leading a team to optimize inventory and enhance vendor partnerships, notably with Hasbro and Mattel. Demonstrates exceptional leadership and a meticulous eye for detail, significantly impacting profitability and operational efficiency.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Purchasing Manager - Merchandise
Diamond Comic Distributors Inc.
Hunt Valley
06.2021 - Current
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure the best possible prices for goods.
- Maintained appropriate inventory levels to meet corporate needs.
- Analyzed market trends to determine appropriate purchasing strategies.
- Oversaw Purchasing team consisting of 5 buyers and 2 administrative assistants.
- Main point of contact for several Manufacturers including, Hasbro, Mattel, McFarlane Toys, Jakks Pacific, & Spinmaster.
Brand Manager/Buyer
Diamond Comic Distributors Inc.
Hunt Valley
05.2000 - Current
- Collaborated with team to forecast based on sales and product profitability.
- Developed and implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and sales.
- Collaborated with sales teams on product launches, promotions and pricing strategies.
- Developed marketing strategies based on market trends.
- Monitored competitors' activities to stay ahead in the market.
- Cultivated business partnerships to build lasting relationships with toy manufacturers.
- Expanded personnel skill sets by mentoring purchasing team both individually and in groups.
- Buying categories included everything from printed matter(comics), games, and trading cards to all domestic and import toy categories.
- Main point of contact for many vendors including Hasbro, Mattel, Bandai (Japan and US), McFarlane, Kaiyodo, and Kotobukiya, among others.
Manager/Buyer
Twilight Book and Game
Syracuse
06.1990 - 06.2000
- Managed full-time and part-time staff.
- Oversaw purchasing of all product for 4 store locations in greater Syracuse area.
- Organized and ran in-store events such as sales, comic-creator signings & hobby gaming tournaments.
- Fostered store/customer relationships.
Education
High School Diploma -
Cato-Meridian Central
Cato, NY06-1989
Skills
- Contract negotiation
- Inventory management
- Market analysis
- Team leadership
- Sales forecasting
- Business relationships
- Project management
- Employee mentoring
- Problem solving
- Professional demeanor
- Category management
- Vendor relationship management
- Meticulous eye for detail
Affiliations
- 20+ years of Martial Art training
- long-distance running
- extensive pop-culture knowledge (comics, games, movies, etc.)
Timeline
Purchasing Manager - Merchandise
Diamond Comic Distributors Inc.
06.2021 - Current
Brand Manager/Buyer
Diamond Comic Distributors Inc.
05.2000 - Current
Manager/Buyer
Twilight Book and Game
06.1990 - 06.2000
High School Diploma -
Cato-Meridian Central
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