William H. Parker

Senior retail executive who has led global multi-billion businesses by taking companies to their next level by strengthening their positions in the market and developing distinctive strategies to achieve competitive advantage. Turnaround executive who specializes in maximizing the potential and opportunities of distressed companies; also specializes in providing professional business management to small entrepreneurial companies so they achieve their full growth potential:

In depth experience in merchandising, product development, international manufacturing, store operations and financial management within department, specialty and discount business formats. Keen understanding of financial key performance indicators so profitability is enhanced and maximized.
A corporate executive who has successfully transitioned to the Private Equity arena with an assertive style and a high achievement record.

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FORMAT CORPORATE

DEPARTMENT STORES

Macy’s: Menswear Buyer
May Company: Store Operations; Divisional Merchandise Manager {menswear, children’s wear, soft home}
Dayton-Hudson’s: Store General Manager; Divisional Merchandise Manager {menswear, young menswear, sporting goods and footwear}
Carson Pirie Scott: Senior Vice President Merchandising-Menswear, Intimate Apparel, Children’s Wear, Footwear

SPECIALTY STORES

Old Navy: Vice President of Stores and Operations for the Midwestern Zone
Banana Republic: Senior Vice President of Stores and Operations
Gateway: President and General Manager of Gateway’s Retail Stores

MASS MERCHANDISERS

Target: Divisional Merchandise Manager, Footwear
Kmart: Vice President of Marketing and Sales Promotion; Vice President Merchandising, Home Décor

FORMAT ENTREPRENEUR/INVESTOR

PRIVATE COMPANIES

Pharmaca, Integrative Pharmacy: Chief Operating Officer
Jeanomix {contemporary branded jeans and contemporary sportswear for men and women}

SUCCESS FACTORS

LEADERSHIP FACTOR

Inspiring and Empowering: Creates a climate that fosters personal investment and excellence; gives people the opportunity and latitude to grow and achieve the desired results.
Attracting and Developing Talent: Identifies the competencies needed in the workforce and attracts high caliber people.

MANAGEMENT FACTOR

Driving Execution: Monitors performance against key operational and financial results; holds people accountable for achieving their goals and tackles problems and crises directly and with dispatch.

THINKING FACTOR

Visionary Thinking: Has a clear vision for the industry, business or operation that requires new direction; maintains a long-term, big picture view; foresees obstacles and opportunities and generates breakthrough ideas.
Financial Acumen: Understands the meaning and implications of key financial indicators; manages overall financial performance {income statement, cash flow statement, balance sheet} and uses financial analysis to evaluate strategic options and opportunities.
Seasoned Judgment: Applies broad knowledge and seasoned experience when addressing complex issues. Keeps abreast of important international trends that will impact the organization.
Shaping Strategy: Demonstrates a clear understanding of the organization's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats; develops distinctive strategies to achieve competitive advantage in the marketplace.

DEPTH AND BREADTH FACTOR
[GENERAL MANAGEMENT]

Cross Functional Capability: Understands the role and interrelationships of each organizational function; understands general management principles necessary to improve the profitability of the business.