Maria Gabriela Rojas
Panama City
Summary
Hardworking professional with experience optimizing product portfolios combined with an extensive knowledge of brand positioning and strategy development. Looking forward to expand my knowledge in a company with a strong culture of collaboration and openness to new ideas.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Merchandising
Hola Moda S.A (H&M Franchisee in Central America)
06.2021 - 05.2023
- Oversaw operations in Panama, Costa Rica and Guatemala.
- Managed entire product lifecycle, from product selection and assortment planning to inventory management and pricing.
- Analyzed sales data to identify opportunities for improving product assortment, leading to a 19% increase in sales on second year of operations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including marketing, visual merchandising and store operations to establish company´s commercial plan.
- Conducted demand forecasting and replenishment strategies to ensure optimal stock availability in stores.
- Trained and mentored a team of 5 merchandisers and demand planners.
Brand Manager
Felipe Motta S.A
03.2021 - 06.2021
- Managed a portfolio of +5 brands within the frozen food category.
- Executed marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and increase market penetration.
- Cultivated and maintained relationships with external partners and suppliers to support brand initiatives.
- Managed all product development for the brands including the launch of new flavors ensuring compliance with all sanitary registries and labeling requirements.
- Monitored and analyzed stock levels to ensure product availability.
Womenswear Buyer
Importadora Maduro S.A
06.2015 - 03.2021
- Managed annual budget of +6M for brands in within the Ready-to-Wear or Premium segment.
- Led the relaunch of a new Contemporary department focusing on clear customer segmentation and vendor differentiation.
- Analyzed sales data and inventory reports to optimize product selection for each season and ensure appropriate stock levels.
- Analyzed market trends in order to identify new vendors.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective purchasing terms and to ensure competitive pricing and effective delivery times.
Regional Advertising Coordinator
American Sportswear S.A (authorized distributor for Tommy Hilfiger in Latam)
05.2011 - 01.2014
- Coordinated all marketing and communication activities for franchisees in Peru, Chile, Venezuela, Argentina and Brasil.
- Monitored all media spending from clients to ensure compliance with brand´s standards and contractual obligations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams including sales, logistics and store operations to ensure alignment of marketing initiatives with product launches.
- Worked closely with advertising agencies and media partners to maximize brand's exposure in each country.
- Assisted in the planning and execution of brand events including sample coordination, invitations, venue selection and media coverage.
Junior Brand Analyst
Phocus Branding
05.2010 - 05.2011
- Conducted primary market research to support clients in understanding their target markets, consumer behavior, and industry trends.
- Executed surveys, interviews, and focus groups to collect and analyze data.
- Collaborated with senior brand analysts in the interpretation of findings and development of communication strategies.
- Assisted in the preparation and delivery of client presentations, effectively communicating research findings and recommendations.
Education
Master of Arts - Fashion & Luxury Brand Management
Istituto Marangoni
Italy 09.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Marketing And General Management
Florida State University
05.2010
High School Diploma -
Colegio De Las Esclavas
Panama City12.2005
Skills
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Merchandise planning and allocation
- Budget and inventory management
- Brand positioning and strategy development
Timeline
Head of Merchandising
Hola Moda S.A (H&M Franchisee in Central America)
06.2021 - 05.2023
Brand Manager
Felipe Motta S.A
03.2021 - 06.2021
Womenswear Buyer
Importadora Maduro S.A
06.2015 - 03.2021
Regional Advertising Coordinator
American Sportswear S.A (authorized distributor for Tommy Hilfiger in Latam)
05.2011 - 01.2014
Junior Brand Analyst
Phocus Branding
05.2010 - 05.2011
Master of Arts - Fashion & Luxury Brand Management
Istituto Marangoni
Bachelor of Arts - Marketing And General Management
Florida State University
High School Diploma -
Colegio De Las Esclavas
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