William Velez
Los Angeles
Summary
Results-driven Visual Merchandising Leader with over 10 years of experience in brand presentation and commercial execution in high-volume retail. Expert in leading multi-store visual initiatives and developing high-performing teams to enhance brand standards and customer experience. Skilled in collaborating with district leadership to support store openings and implement scalable merchandising strategies across diverse markets.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Visual Merchandising Manager
ALO
Los Angeles
07.2023 - 04.2026
- Lead visual merchandising executionhfor highest volume location with 120+ employees in a luxury retail environment
* Drive commercial business results through strategic product placement, floor-set execution, and customer-focused visual storytelling.
* Consistently achieve key performance metrics.
* Support district visual initiatives through training, onboarding, and partnership with regional leadership teams.
* Delivered visual merchandising training and operational support for stores in Mexico.
* Supported new store openings across the Los Angeles market, ensuring alignment with brand standards and operational readiness.
* Partner cross-functionally with store leadership to execute seasonal launches, promotional strategies, and floor transitions.
* Contributed to revenue growth from $13M to $21M through elevated merchandising execution and operational leadership.
* Hosted executive leadership and international business partners during flagship visits and brand walkthroughs
* Awarded Visual Merchandising of the Year in 2023 and 2024 - Developed engaging visual displays to enhance brand identity and customer experience.
- Collaborated with marketing team to align merchandising strategies with seasonal promotions.
- Managed inventory levels to ensure timely restocking of visual merchandise.
General Manger
Zara USA
Los Angeles
07.2013 - 07.2021
- Directed daily store operations, visual merchandising execution, and team leadership within a fast-paced flagship retail environment.
* Led recruitment, coaching, and development of team members into leadership positions.
* Maintained brand presentation standards while driving operational efficiency and customer experience excellence.
* Supported multiple new store openings, including merchandising setup, operational planning, and team training.
* Developed SOPs for visual merchandising and stockroom processes to improve consistency and execution.
* Collaborated with regional leadership teams to execute seasonal floor sets and business strategies.
* Managed high-volume inventory flow and ensured strong execution of merchandising standards. - Managed daily operations to ensure smooth retail performance.
- Developed and implemented strategic sales plans for store growth.
- Trained and mentored staff to enhance team productivity and service.
Education
Associate of Science - Mathematics
Santa Monica College
Santa Monica, CA 06.2011 - 06.2013
Skills
- Visual merchandising
- Commercial Merchandising
- Floor Set Execution
- Regional Visual Execution
- Store Openings
- Brand Standards
- KPI Management
- Inventory management
- Multi-Store Support
- Team Leadership
- Training & Development
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
Languages
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual
Timeline
Visual Merchandising Manager
ALO
07.2023 - 04.2026
General Manger
Zara USA
07.2013 - 07.2021
Associate of Science - Mathematics
Santa Monica College
06.2011 - 06.2013