Richard Tonski

Dedicated and customer-focused professional with over 20 years of experience in retail and hospitality, including extensive wine management and nursery operations. Proven ability in visual merchandising, inventory control, and customer education, honed through roles such as Sommelier/Manager and Proprietor. Eager to leverage strong sales skills, attention to detail, and a passion for quality products to contribute to the Specialty team at Whole Foods Market.

Plant Merchandiser at Altman Specialty Plants, LLC. (2023-04 – Present)

• Executed effective merchandising strategies for plant products at Home Depot, ensuring displays were fully stocked, organized, and visually captivating.
• Oversaw plant inventory management, assessed product quality, and upheld display cleanliness in accordance with corporate standards.
• Guided customers with plant information, care instructions, and tailored product recommendations to enhance sales.
• Liaised with store management regarding display status and inventory requirements.
• Employed mobile devices for communication and reporting, adhering to established company protocols.

In-Store Shopper at Sprouts Farmers Market (2022-06 – Present)

• Executed shopping and fulfillment of customers' online orders, ensuring product quality and freshness standards.
• Delivered exemplary customer service by addressing inquiries and assisting with product selection and substitutions.
• Served as an ambassador of the store, aiding customers on the sales floor and fostering a positive shopping atmosphere.
• Leveraged mobile devices and store technology to process orders and collaborate with team members.

Proprietor at CLOUD NINE NURSERY (2014-04 – Present)

• Oversaw daily operations of a 4,000 sq ft nursery, supervising propagation, plant care, and display arrangements for a varied assortment of plants.
• Educated customers and community members on plant care, soil management, watering, and effective gardening techniques.
• Maintained cleanliness of the nursery, organized displays, and ensured exemplary plant presentation standards.
• Delivered landscaping services and customized plant recommendations to elevate customer satisfaction.

Sommelier/Manager at The Phoenician Resort (2000-04 – 2008-10)

• Trained staff on extensive wine list knowledge and presentation techniques, ensuring compliance with high service standards.
• Maintained well-organized and visually appealing displays in wine outlets to enhance overall guest satisfaction.
• Collaborated with management to sustain award-winning service and product quality.

State Wine Manager at Copper State/All American Distributing (1981-01 – 1999-12)

• Supervised purchasing and distribution processes of a large wine portfolio, guaranteeing inventory accuracy and product excellence.
• Educated sales teams on product knowledge and merchandising best practices tailored for retail and restaurant clientele.
• Established optimal inventory levels and monitored stock to support sales efforts and display integrity across multiple locations.
• Coordinated with clients to ensure product displays conformed to both company and client standards.

Bachelor's degree in Operations management – University of Arizona (1975-08 – 1980-05)