Inspiration. Education. Motivation.
Education Director
Led the development of a global strategy to create award-winning educational initiatives for retailers and consumers, utilizing cost-effective marketing methods to significantly enhance the competitive positioning of our CPG brands
Scrapbook Design & You
Scrapbook Design & You (SDU) was an innovative series of 10 hands-on classes developed by Joy Macdonell, who served as the author and visionary behind this powerful educational system. Offered by independent scrapbook stores worldwide, each class focused on essential skills for creating stunning scrapbook pages, covering topics such as layout design, journaling, color theory, matting photographs, and the art of embellishing.
Launched in 2002 by EK Success, SDU invited independent retailers to EK’s headquarters, where they learned to teach this specialized series in a cutting-edge classroom equipped with stadium seating, Promethean boards, and abundant creative inspiration.
Once trained, instructors returned to their local scrapbook stores to guide consumers in crafting beautiful scrapbook pages using EK Success products. By harnessing the power of local scrapbook stores, EK Success not only promoted its products but also boosted sales for both the company and independent retailers, solidifying its leadership in the industry.
the Growth Of sdu
In my role, I oversaw the administration, documentation, tracking, and reporting of the train-the-trainer program. Recognizing the need to scale the Scrapbook Design & You (SDU) initiative, we made a pivotal decision to transition from in-person training to a digital Learning Management System (LMS). This shift was essential for accommodating growth and expanding our reach to key accounts. effectively.
By implementing the LMS, we not only streamlined the training process but also enhanced accessibility for instructors across various locations.
SDU product assortment
To further adapt to this new format, we shortened the classes to four sessions, ensuring they remained engaging and focused.
Additionally, we introduced an in-store end cap that showcased EK Success products, providing tangible support for the SDU classes and enriching the overall learning experience.
This strategic evolution allowed us to scale our program successfully and meet the demands of our growing network.
SDU Results
Driving Innovation and Excellence in Creative Project Development
Spearheaded the development and photography of all creative projects for EK Success and Martha Stewart Crafts
- Oversaw trade show set-up and presentations
- Directed project crafting for key account signage
- Responsible for HSN/QVC appearances and crafting for EK Success and Martha Stewart Crafts
- Led a talented team of creative artists to bring ideas to life
Tools Product Development Director
Led strategic tools product development by overseeing every aspect of the product development life cycle
Data-Driven Decision Making
Grew tools business by just over 100% in 21 months at Key Accounts including Walmart, Target, Michaels, Joann Stores, and Hobby Lobby.
- Accurate Inventory Forecasts
- Detailed monitoring for planned purchases
- Effective measurement of COG
- Successful initial pipeline fill
- Accurate replenishment
Expanded Profits
Achieved year-over-year profit growth through innovative planning and the seamless coordination of essential functions, including:
- Initial concept development
- Market research
- Vendor sourcing and support
- Quality control
- Public relations
- Regular product launches
- Market establishment
Let’s Team Up! I’m Here to Bring Your Vision to Life—Hire Me Today!
Let’s make things happen!
