Michael Carlson
Store Director | Luxury Retail Leader
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About
Led a $35M flagship Hermès boutique at LAX, with full accountability for sales, operations, client development, talent, and business performance. Owned 100% of buying and assortment strategy seasonally while in Paris, aligning product investment with the needs of the business. Cultivated high-value international client relationship selling culture across a complex, high-volume environment.
Experience
Boutique Manager - DFS | Hermès - Los Angeles, CA - LAX
(2026-03 - 2026-06)
- Led a $35M flagship Hermès boutique at LAX, with full accountability for sales, operations, client development, talent, and business performance.
- Owned 100% of buying and assortment strategy seasonally while in Paris, aligning product investment with the needs of the business.
- Cultivated high-value international client relationship selling culture across a complex, high-volume environment.
Flagship Store Director - CASABLANCA PARIS - Beverly Hills, CA
(2025-08 - 2026-01)
- Launched Casablanca Paris’ first U.S. flagship and second global location, leading the end-to-end opening strategy from pre-opening execution through daily operations.
- Built the U.S. retail operation across talent acquisition, team development, CRM, VM, inventory, and client experience.
- Established the foundation for a new U.S. market, partnering cross-functionally with international leadership to translate the brand’s global vision into a high touch Beverly Hills retail experience.
General Manager - VERSACE - Los Angeles, CA - Topanga
(2023-08 - 2025-08)
- Accountable for sales growth, client development, talent, visual merchandising, operations, omni-channel business operations, and brand standards compliance.
- Increased overall sales by 15% within the first six months, accelerating business performance through focused clienteling, team development, and operational execution.
- Demonstrated exceptional VIC development, product storytelling, and strategic pre-selling execution.
General Manager - PRADA - Los Angeles, CA - Beverly Center
(2018-10 - 2022-11)
- Transformed annual business from $2.8M to $8M+ during 4-year tenure.
- Cultivated a highly productive private-client business, generating 23% of total sales through private appointments and strengthening long-term VIC relationships.
- Led end-to-end boutique performance across P&L, talent development, CRM, merchandising, inventory, operations, and omni-channel business operations, positioning the business for sustained gro wth.
Flagship Department Manager - GUCCI - Beverly Hills, CA
(2017-10 - 2018-10)
- Directed a $30M+ luxury business spanning Ready-to-Wear, Fine Jewelry, and Children’s.
- Delivered the #1 SS18 and FW18 trunk show presale results in North America, leveraging VIC relationships and appointment-based selling to maximize high-value business.
- Partnered cross-functionally with VM, buying, and leadership teams to optimize product assortment and elevate the client experience.
Flagship Shoe Salon Manager - SAKS FIFTH AVENUE - Beverly Hills, CA
(2014-02 - 2017-10)
- Led a high-performing team of 32+ Sales Associates in a $23M luxury women's footwear business.
- Recognized as Fall 2016 Manager of the Season.
- Optimized product assortment through effective communication with corporate buyers and attending seasonal footwear summits
- Executed a $100K Christian Louboutin event
- Store Trainer for New-Hire Orientation.
Manager, Men's Division - BLOOMINGDALE'S - Sherman Oaks, CA
(2012-09 - 2014-02)
- Directed all aspects of a $15M luxury Men's Division encompassing six departments, leading 30+ Sales Professionals, Brand Ambassadors, and Stock Associates.
- Leveraged KPI insights and buying office partnerships to optimize merchandise assortment and align inventory with local demand.
- Store Trainer for New-Hire Orientation.
Flagship Customer Relationship Manager - NORDSTROM - Los Angeles, CA - Topanga
(2006-10 - 2012-09)
- Promoted three times during my six-year tenure: Beauty Counter Manager →Designer Handbags Assistant Manager → Personal Stylist Manager → Customer Relationship Manager
- Utilized CRM analytics to develop targeted outreach strategies.
- Regionally recognized as Leader of the Month (February 2011)
Education
Accounting - Orange Cou n t y Business College (1991-10 - 1992-01)


