University of Illinois

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

CEO at Get Down Art

My background includes over two decades of sales  management, marketing, product development and operational management in the retail and fitness industry.   Organizational leadership, staff development, sales and operational management  with strategic planning and execution are core competencies of mine. 

As the founder of VersaFlexx, I am a flexible leader with the ability to quickly determine how to drive results by focusing on key business metrics. 

My fitness and wellness experience also includes a strong background in the development of standard operating policies and procedures along with financial planning and budgeting responsibilities. These skill sets were pivotal in developing our foundation for the VersaFlexx Fitness business and marketing plan.

Versaflexx Fitness

Founder

Served as the CEO of the Midwest’s largest and highest volume chain of privately owned gift, home accessory, and fine art stores for 18 years.
As the leader of the organization, I grew the business from a single 5,000 square foot location to 4 locations with stand-alone art galleries, with footprints as large as 20,000 square feet.  
Grew sales from 600,000 to over 12,000,000 at their peak in 2007. 
I employed and managed over 80 people in the peak holiday season and was responsible for over 6 million dollars in purchases.  
Put in a stringent open to buy program by product category to manage purchases and control inventory. 
Put in place daily, weekly and monthly sales goals along with daily sales meetings ran by managers with staff. I met weekly with managers to analyze sales numbers and to scheduled proactive promotions and events to reach goals.
Served on several marketing and advertising committees including the Home Source group which collectively spent over 1 million in advertising annually.
Oversaw monthly event planning including charity tie ins, artist appearances, product/service introductions and open houses.
Several 3 day art events that exceeded 250k in sales.  Our marketing strategies and success became a platform for how these events were marketed and promoted.
Implemented an outside sales team to solicit corporate accounts and real estate agents. Realized 15% revenue growth from this program. 
Developed and monitored a stringent employee review process with great communication between my management staff and the employees.  
Implemented several unique and successful customer loyalty and rewards programs.  We prided ourselves on providing our customers with an outstanding shopping experience and relied on their repeat business and positive word of mouth. Recognized by West Suburban Living Magazine as the best place to by a unique gift 6 years running.

Darren Donofrio