Richard Koval

About Richard Koval

I am a Senior Merchandising and Sales Executive with 20+ years of leadership experience in global product development, management, and omnichannel wholesale/retail sales. I head product development, curation, and management for Plow & Hearth’s omnichannel business in D2C, B2B, and Key Account Sales.I demonstrate success in cultivating industry-leading product lines through a combination of innovative new products, strategic global sourcing, and expert project management. I led development and sales of Outdoor furniture to independent retailers and it became the number 1 category for Plow & Hearth\'s wholesale division. I also ideated and developed a patented solar wind spinner which has become an innovative top seller in the category.I have a proven record of delivering rapid bottom line results through a data-driven approach to gross margin improvements. I turned around a distressed business to regain profitability with a rapid 30% increase in sales.I have deep knowledge of the overseas manufacturing process, global supply chain, and negotiating. I led product development all the way to market by securing a patent and a core vendor in China while collaborating with the engineering team.I possess strong business acumen with P&L responsibility, brand management, people leadership, and acquisition/integration experience. I currently manage a team of 8 direct reports including the Director of Merchandising, Senior Product Managers, and Buyers.I am adept at C-level sales and presentations with innate ability to generate new and unique ideas. I invented a multi-million patented product. Technology: Microsoft Office Suite, Power BI, Google DocsCompetencies:Product Development & SourcingProject ManagementGross Margin EnhancementNegotiationP & L Leadership / EBITDASales LeaderInnovative DeveloperBrand BuilderTeam Building Mentor

Experience

1. Director of Sales - National Accounts

   Evergreen Enterprises

   Apr 2023 — Present · Richmond, VA, US

   In my role at Evergreen Enterprises, I have leveraged my extensive C-Suite retail, sales and sourcing experience to drive growth in the national accounts segment, the fastest growing segment in the company. By focusing on client needs and market trends, I consistently achieve year-over-year sales, also driving strong profitability for the company. My efforts in opening new accounts in 2024 were particularly noteworthy, showcasing my ability to expand the company’s portfolio effectively.

Education

• University of Pittsburgh

  BS, Psychology

  1993

Skills

• Global Sourcing
• Strategic Planning
• Retail
• Direct Marketing
• Business Development
• Sourcing
• Negotiation
• Competitive Analysis
• Creative Direction
• Advertising
• Gross Margin
• Sales
• E-Commerce
• Product Development
• Merchandising
• Strategic Partnerships
• P&L Management
• Brand Development
• Multi-Channel Marketing
• Account Management
• Brand Management
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Marketing Strategy
• New Business Development
• Sales Management
• Marketing
• Analytics
• Visual Merchandising
• Business Strategy
• Pricing
• Product Management
• Forecasting
• Direct Mail
• Apparel