Austin Thom
Modesto
Summary
Dedicated, results-driven Pepsi Merchandiser with 3 years of frontline experience—including step-up leadership as an Acting Pepsi Team Lead and cross-functional Sales Representative Coverage. Proven track record of partnering with Large Format sales reps to write high-volume inventory orders, independently managing Small Format store sales, and executing flawless territory logistics. Expert in PepsiCo operational standards, commercial relationship management, and peer training, uniquely positioning me to excel in both revenue-driving Sales Representative roles and high-impact Merchandiser Trainer positions.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Merchandiser / Acting Team Lead & Sales Support
PepsiCo
Modesto, CA
08.2023 - Current
- Pepsi Team Lead Coverage: Stepped up as Acting Team Lead as needed in absences, successfully directing daily territory logistics, troubleshooting service disruptions across multiple Pepsi routes, and serving as the primary point of contact for account challenges.
- Large Format Sales Collaboration: Partnered closely with Large Format Sales Representative Dustin to manage high-volume corporate accounts; co-wrote orders to maximize shelf availability while maintaining clean backrooms, and successfully sold in high-impact secondary displays (lobby stacks, endcaps, and pod displays).
- Small Format Sales Execution: Directly covered and sold into small format accounts, managing the full sales cycle writing accurate, demand-based orders.
- Peer Training & Mentorship: Acted as a designated peer trainer; onboarded, coached, and shadowed incoming merchandisers to ensure mastery of efficient route management, corporate display standards, and safe product handling techniques.
- Merchandising Excellence & Compliance: Maintained prominent product displays, optimized shelf space, and ensured strict planogram compliance while utilizing point-of-sale (POS) marketing materials to aggressively defend shelf share against competitors.
Kitchen Manager
Chefs of New York
Modesto, CA
03.2014 - 06.2023
- Staff Development & Coaching: Recruited, hired, and spearheaded the training program for all kitchen staff, ensuring complete mastery of safety protocols, speed of service, and operational standards.
- Supply Chain & Inventory: Managed all product ordering, vendor negotiations, and multiple weekly inventory audits, consistently maintaining food and labor costs under strict budget targets through accurate forecasting.
- Operations Leadership: Oversaw daily back-of-house operations, shifting resources dynamically during peak high-volume hours to maintain strict quality control and regulatory compliance.
Education
High School Diploma -
James C. Enochs
Modesto, CASkills
- Sales & Account Management
- Reliable and punctual
- PepsiCo Operations
- Training & Leadership
- Safety & Compliance
- Friendly and outgoing
- Pricing and shelf labeling
- Active listener
Timeline
Merchandiser / Acting Team Lead & Sales Support
PepsiCo
08.2023 - Current
Kitchen Manager
Chefs of New York
03.2014 - 06.2023
High School Diploma -
James C. Enochs