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Shellie Cohen
Operations Leader for Global Brands with International Sourcing + Manufacturing Expertise
Professional Background
Shellie Cohen is a seasoned leader in global sourcing operations and development, bringing nearly two decades of international expertise to the field. Known for her dynamic and culturally savvy approach, Shellie has led teams across various sectors to achieve outstanding results. Her journey began with a strong foundation in graphic design and art history, acquired through her undergraduate studies at San Diego State University. Shellie's career is marked by strategic sourcing and procurement, where she has nurtured existing partnerships and developed new ones, particularly during her time as an ex-pat for nine years in Hong Kong and China, with extended stays in Vietnam and Malaysia.
As a global sourcing and development consultant, Shellie specializes in innovative manufacturing solutions. She excels in overseeing project management with budgets up to $6.5 million, emphasizing efficiency, quality, and sustainable financial growth. Her expertise extends to analytical and strategic negotiation, where she consistently secures revenue-generating opportunities and drives improvements in logistics and supply chain. Throughout her career, Shellie has had the honor of working with renowned organizations such as Costco, Disney, and Target, where her contributions have significantly impacted their operational efficiencies and manufacturing capabilities.
Education and Achievements
Shellie's commitment to her craft is evident not just in her impressive experience but also in her academic background. She earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Graphic Design and Art History from San Diego State University, setting the stage for her creative and analytical approach to product development and procurement. Her educational background complements her extensive career, allowing her to integrate creativity with strategic thinking.
Over the years, Shellie has achieved numerous milestones in her career. As Vice President of Manufacturing Operations and Sourcing at Beachwood Custom, she played a pivotal role in reshaping operational processes to align with industry standards and client expectations. In her role as Director of Manufacturing and Sourcing at Artistic Studios Ltd., LLC, she led major projects that greatly enhanced product quality and cost efficiency. Shellie's strategic insights have also made her a sought-after consultant, allowing her to guide organizations through complex sourcing landscapes and manufacturing challenges.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Shellie Cohen believes in the power of collaboration and mentorship. She has successfully managed and guided teams of six direct reports and fourteen indirect reports, fostering a spirit of teamwork and innovation. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent and encouraging teams to adopt entrepreneurial approaches to problem-solving. Through her hands-on approach, she has not only led teams but also inspired them to expand their capabilities and drive meaningful improvements to operations.
As a certified Lean Six Sigma professional, Shellie integrates efficiency strategies in her work, striving to eliminate waste and enhance productivity in every project. She is a change agent, continuously seeking opportunities for growth and advancement in the supply chain processes she oversees. Her role as a global sourcing consultant allows her to be a driving force for organizational change, helping clients navigate the complexities of sourcing and manufacturing and ultimately leading them towards sustainable growth.
Notable Projects and Collaborations
Shellie's expertise has led her to work with a variety of clients across different industries, including retail giants like CVS/Walgreen’s, Four Seasons Resorts, Hard Rock Hotels, and toy manufacturers like Hasbro and Mattel. Each of these collaborations reflects her ability to tailor solutions that meet the unique needs of each client, demonstrating her versatility and a keen understanding of diverse markets.
Her strategic sourcing skills have proven invaluable in enhancing product development times, reducing costs, and improving overall quality. In her past roles, she has been instrumental in negotiating contracts that provide significant cost savings while simultaneously ensuring that the highest standards of product quality are met.
The projects she has overseen often showcase her ability to harmonize creativity with functionality, providing clients with innovative products that resonate in the marketplace. Her direct involvement in OEM product development for contract manufacturing has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the production landscape, enabling her to provide unparalleled insights to clients.
Commitment to Excellence
Shellie Cohen’s dedication to product excellence and team leadership is palpable in her work. She actively seeks to stay ahead of industry trends and advancements, continually pursuing opportunities to refine her skills and knowledge. This commitment not only enhances her career but also ensures that she remains a pivotal resource for her clients in an ever-evolving sourcing and manufacturing landscape.
In conclusion, Shellie Cohen is a powerhouse of strategic insight and operational expertise. With nearly 20 years of rich experience, her journey through the realms of sourcing, procurement, and operations is marked by success and a profound impact on the organizations and individuals she collaborates with. Shellie is a collaborative partner, a brilliant negotiator, and an inspiring leader—a true asset to any organization seeking to drive meaningful results through innovative manufacturing solutions.
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