Stewart MacDonald

• Lead a team to successfully deliver more than 35 successful projects across the globe
• Improved project efficiency across the global Professional Services organisation with strategic planning, resource allocation, and process improvements
• Re-defined Kick Off practices to improve the success rate of projects
• Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies
• Boosted client satisfaction rates through exceptional relationship management and prompt resolution of issues
• Collaborated closely with executive team in Nth America and EMEA to ensure consistency of global delivery and implement a global PMO
• SOW creation
• Provides executive level support to customers to guide change management and operational implementation best practice
• Identifies areas of business improvement and recommends improvement strategies to further enhance the successful deliver of projects
• Operational consult in the build of WorkJam's Service Delivery Partner enablement programme
• Onboarded 2 service delivery partners across Australia and South-East Asia
• Supports MD APAC with business planning and market strategy
• Developed a high-performing team by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth

• Strategic planning for the future state of the Target Workforce, including team member mix, risk profiling and automation options to improve profitability
• Presented 5 year strategic roadmap for store level hiring principles
• Worked closely with the Head of Employee relations to determine needs of upcoming award negotiations to ensure both the team and business strategy met the BOOT test
• Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
• Evaluated emerging technologies to identify potential opportunities for process optimisation and cost reduction
• Enhanced employee engagement by embracing digital tools that allowed the team to have a voice.

• Driving future state of retail operations across one of Australia's largest retail footprints
• Simplification of operations to optimise workforce management, while overseeing major innovation and project management
• Defined and delivered improved "blueprint" rostering principles to deliver an 18.7% decrease in wage spend over two years (started in previous role)
• Transformed the digital workplace with launch of WorkJam - Reporting to COO for this project
• Presented at NRF 2018 - 'Unleashing the Ultimate Employee Experience.'
• Collaborated closely with external vendors to negotiate favourable contracts, leading to cost savings without compromising quality or service levels
• Streamlined operational processes by implementing efficient and strategic workflow solutions
• Assisted management in achieving company goals by providing valuable insights from data analysis and reporting
• Improved overall operational efficiency with the implementation of innovative process improvements
• Championed continuous improvement efforts within the central operations team, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability
• Played an integral role in change management initiatives, guiding team members through transitions while maintaining high levels of morale and productivity
• Supported company growth by managing critical projects and ensuring timely completion within budget constraints
• Identified opportunities for process improvement using root cause analysis techniques, resulting in increased efficiency across multiple areas of central operations
• Cross-trained existing employees to maximise team agility and performance
• Developed a strong team culture focused on employee engagement, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities
• Coached Regional Managements teams in communication best practice

• Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritising tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organisational goals
• Re-designed Workload and Capacity Planning for the Target store network
• Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects
• Orchestrated a significant change in Workforce Management including tools, coaching, measurement, and analysis of performance
• Simplified Process, Policy and governance adding ~$80m in value
• Implementation of KRONOS Workforce Management
• Introduced process improvements that led to faster time to shelf for inventory
• Established performance benchmarks for the team, motivating employees to exceed expectations consistently
• Developed compelling content for internal communications channels, driving user engagement and improved store execution of campaigns

• Provided critical support to the General Manager - Central Operations, including developing the operating strategy for the Merchandise Operations Team
• Developed and implemented a strategy to improve reach, credibility, and accuracy of communications to more than 14,000 Team Members
• Initiated process improvements to better identify root causes for trending issues and first point resolution for the Store Help Desk, resulting in the eventual removal of the help desk and saving ~$420k p/a
• Coordinated promotional events and sales initiatives for seasonal launches, driving customer traffic and increasing revenue during key periods
• Facilitated communication between employees and management, improving workplace culture and operational efficiencies
• Optimised inventory management, resulting in decreased excess stock and improved product availability for customers
• Collaborated with store and regional managers for best practice sharing and problem-solving initiatives that benefited all locations involved
• Participated in regional meetings and conferences to stay updated on industry developments, applying new insights to improve store performance

• Operational conduit and support for store network and Business Manager for five Hard Goods categories (Toys, Home, Entertainment, General Merchandise)
• Provided consult and tactical direction on Marketing and Merchandise initiatives, including range selection and in-store execution
• Owned executional planning and delivery of 'The Greatest Toy Sale on Earth'
• Contributed to double digit sales growth for this event
• Reduced customer complaints by implementing proactive troubleshooting strategies and preventive measures
• Collaborated with other teams to identify and resolve customer issues quickly and professionally
• Collaborated with suppliers to plan and implement in store initiatives, resulting in increase sales and profit for a 300+ store fleet

• Company Overview: Sole consultancy firm focused on Customer Experience and Retail Operations improvement
• Sole consultancy firm focused on Customer Experience and Retail Operations improvement
• Developed the 'Customer Expectation Gap' model
• Established a service recovery plan for Turtle Beach Resort, Surfers Paradise
• Sole consultancy firm focused on Customer Experience and Retail Operations improvement
• Developed comprehensive business plans, outlining long-term goals and actionable steps toward success.
• Negotiated contracts with clients.
• Developed strategic communication and marketing plan
• This role included a 3-month contract with Target Australia, which led to engagement as a full time employee and subsequent move to Melbourne

Gatekeeper for all 'store based' operational workload, this role also incorporated all planogramming and visual merchandising standards for FMCG areas

• Ownership of internal store communications and customer impact areas of Operations
• Operational project manager for all Major Events
• Initiated robust PIR and continuous improvement measures to deliver year on year optimization of workforce
• Accountable for promotional space planning and supporting stock flow & availability into stores
• Planning and Management of Inaugural Seasonal Expo for 400 Store Management and Support Office Delegates
• Coordinated closely with operations teams to ensure seamless integration between project planning stages and actual implementation activities.
• Evaluated project performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes
• Mentored and supported 8 direct reports to create strong workplace culture.
• Created new methodologies to improve planning process and results

• Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees
• Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures
• Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele
• Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback
• New Store Opening Manager
• "Fix It" Store manager for underperforming stores
• Head Hunted to work for the major compete in New Zealand, The Warehouse