Michelle Valinotti

Strategic and results-driven Director of Sales with 20+ years of progressive experience in the fashion and apparel industry. Recognized for consistently driving multi-million-dollar revenue growth, spearheading international expansion, and developing long-term client relationships. Expert in designing sales strategies for volume-driven retail models and managing cross-functional teams to deliver profitable outcomes.

Skilled in navigating complex retail environments such as Costco and Off-Price channels, with a reputation for innovative problem-solving and market insight.

Director of Sales - G-III - New York, New York

(2016-11 - 2025-05)

• Solely Responsible for building the business from $5M to $50M.
• Served as the primary contact for all Costco International, maintaining strong relationships with buyers, Assistant Buyers and ICS's
• Developed and implemented comprehensive sales strategies that aligned with the company's manufacturing abilities and brand positioning.
• Analyzed market trends, customer needs and competitor activities to identify opportunities for growth
• Developed Sales strategies specific to Costco volume-driven, price sensitive business model
• Recommeded packaging and labeling solutions
• Negotiated all pricing that met Costco cost targets while preserving healthy margins for the company
• Developed programs that allow for competitive price points through cost, volume scaling and marketing.
• Managed the end-to-end lifecycle from purchase order to delivery flagging risks or delays.
• Provided input to product development based on market needs
• Ensure adherence to strict Costco compliance standards on product testing.
• Ensure all manufacturing practices meet Costco's ethical sourcing and factory audit requirements
• Lead and manage the sales team including hiring, training, goal setting and performance evaluation.
• Created showrooms for all market appointments.

Senior Sales Executive - H.Best/2(X)IST - New York, NY

(2003-05 - 2016-04)

Solely responsible for building the Off-Price business from $1 Million to $12 Million by establishing relationships with key accounts such as Century 21, Bloomingdales, Saks Off 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call etc.

• Expanded the eCommerce channel by partnering with key stakeholders such as Gilt, Myhabit and Hautelook.
• Analyzed all Account sales reports to effectively manage their business and create buy plans.
• Collaborated with Design/Product Development to create assortments.
• Developed Off Price Strategy directly resulting in increased revenue and profitability.
• Developed cadence template which details seasonal flow with financials.
• Collaborated cross-functionally with planning, production, product development, merchandising and finance to analyze sales, develop design strategies.
• Responsible for managing the international business and acting as the liaison between Production/Planning and all International Partners.
• Developed templates used to manage all Off Price & International Business
• Developed and implemented templates used by planning to manage all factory business.
• Partnered with the Chief Finance Officer to manage inventory, analyze sales and create sales plans.
• Developed Competitive Brand analysis to remain current on market trends.

Account Executive - BCBG Max Azria - New York, NY

(2000-10 - 2003-05)

• Managed the entire Southwest Specialty Store Business, which consisted of 50+ accounts.
• Substantially the business grew within a six-month period.
• Handling all customer service-related issues
• Effectively managed all accounts by analyzing sales, managing inventory & understanding all customer needs.
• Traveled and assisted with all Trade Shows

Sales Assistant - Warnaco/Calvin Klein - New York, NY

(1999-11 - 2000-10)

• Assisted with all customer service-related issues
• Managed all showroom samples
• Handled all travel arrangements for Senior Sales Executive
• Participated in sales meetings

L.I.M College (1996 - 1999)