Pat Oconnor

Background

About Pat Oconnor

Over 15 years of increasing leadership experience within the FMCG/CPG sector. Track record of building sales operations and teams from the ground up, establishing robust networks of distributors, retailers, and supplier companies, and growing key national accounts. In my current role as Senior Sales Manager for WaterWipes in North America, I manage 4 to 6 employees and some of the company’s key national accounts (e.g, Target, Walgreens, Kroger), regional accounts (e.g, Meijer, Bed Bath & Beyond, Hannaford's, SUPERVALU), and Canadian accounts (e.g, Loblaws, Toys “R” Us, Rexall, and Sobeys). I am known for leading from the front, always willing to get involved if help is needed, and encouraging people to step forward with ideas. My approachable leadership style, can-do attitude, and entrepreneurial mindset have served me well to bolster top- and bottom-line growth for companies in the US, Canada, UK, and Ireland markets. A FEW CAREER HIGHLIGHTS & QUALIFICATIONS Proven success in managing multiple categories, adding new accounts, increasing category turnover, and delivering sustainable business growth and profitability. Coached, mentored, and developed talented staff across multiple functions including sales, category insights, supply chain, and finance. Led direct reports to achieve optimum performance by utilizing their unique strengths. Learned and swiftly applied new skills around the omni channel aspects of the CPG/retail industry, incorporating the digital shelf with the physical store shelf within traditional bricks and mortar retailers. Developed the Target accounts for WaterWipes in North America from circa $2M in 2016 to $20M in 2020. Transitioned business from a seasonal/local supply model to an annual/global sourcing model, increasing the Dublin Meath Growers accounts from €3M to €36M over a 10-year period, and expanding workforce from 25 employees to 130. MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE Cross-functional Team Leadership • Strategic Planning • New Business Development • Account Management Commercial & Sales Operations Management • Distributor Management • International Sales Experience Staff Training • Key Account Management • Customer Relationship Management • Contract Negotiations MY HOBBIES AND OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES I am an avid golfer and enjoy all sports, long walks, reading and dining out. MY CONTACT INFORMATION Please network with me here or email me at pacoconnor@yahoo.com