Don Namal Palihena
Bushey
Summary
Results-oriented professional with expertise in leadership, management, and sales promotion. Proven track record in enhancing customer experience through effective communication and multitasking under pressure. Specialise in transforming underperforming outlets into high revenue generators by refining processes and motivating teams. Skilled in store layout planning and loss prevention strategies, contributing to improved operational efficiency. Focused on driving sales through innovative upselling techniques while ensuring robust store security measures.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
6018
6018
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Store manager
Poundland
Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire
05.2019 - Current
- Oversaw visual merchandising efforts that enhanced overall store appearance.
- Streamlined operations to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
- Developed a team-oriented environment by implementing effective leadership strategies.
- Monitored inventory levels consistently to avoid stock shortages or overages.
- Managed staff rosters, ensuring adequate coverage during peak times.
- Created seasonal sales plans with varying stock and promotional strategies.
- Analysed consumer data to predict future purchasing trends for informed decision-making.
- Boosted store's reputation for excellence through meticulous upkeep, product presentation and customer service.
- Kept business in compliance with internal controls, industry regulations and health and safety requirements.
- Formulated marketing and advertising strategies for continuous business growth.
- Conducted performance appraisals for staff members, providing constructive feedback and identifying areas for improvement.
- Facilitated smooth checkouts by maintaining efficient till operations.
Assistant Store Manager
Superdrug
Hatch End, Harrow
07.2016 - 04.2019
- Executed all end-of-week management paperwork, including sales reports.
- Controlled budget for staff wages, waste, and KPIs.
- Developed staff rota and holiday planner to ensure adequate coverage.
- Managed cash handling, banking, and deposits.
- Conducted CCTV checks and equipment maintenance.
- Implemented planograms and price ticketing to uphold store standards.
- Oversaw stock ordering and inventory control processes.
- Facilitated staff training and maintained HR paperwork.
- Promoted use of loyalty programs amongst customers; boosted repeat business.
- Ensured timely stocking of products on shelves to maintain a well-stocked shop floor.
- Maintained health and safety standards within the store to ensure compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
Team Leader
M&S - Heathrow AirPort Terminal 5 & 2
Central London, City of London
07.2013 - 06.2016
- Implemented promotion and planogram adjustments to enhance product visibility.
- Managed weekly paperwork for sales and budget oversight.
- Communicated key financial metrics and performance targets through a communication board.
- Oversaw delivery processes and maintained accurate delivery documentation.
- Executed banking procedures, cashing up, and financial management.
- Monitored Bakery Section operations to ensure compliance with standards.
- Ensured health, safety, cleanliness, and hygiene met airport regulations.
- Controlled stock levels to optimize inventory management.
- Implemented new working methods that improved the overall efficiency of the team's operations.
Customer Service
BP Retail
11.2008 - 06.2013
- Managed high-volume customer queries through effective multitasking.
- Facilitated promotion and planogram changes to achieve store targets.
- Handled returns and exchanges while maintaining high customer satisfaction levels.
- Developed strong customer relationships, fostering brand loyalty and repeat business.
- Operated the cash register efficiently to expedite the checkout process.
Education
GCSC (A/L) - Commerce, Accountancy, Economics, Geography
De Mazenod College
Sri LankaDiploma - Management
Charted Institute of Management
Sri LankaCertificate of Higher Education - IATA Ticketing
Sri Lankan Airlines
Sri LankaHigher Diploma - Travel and Tourism
Greenwich School of Management
LondonSkills
- Leadership and management skills
- Organizational and communication skills
- Multitasking abilities
- Sales and upselling strategies
- Ability to work under pressure
- Customer focus
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Commercial awareness
- Store security measures
- Store layout planning
- Money mapping
- Loss prevention strategies
- Budget oversight
- Supply chain understanding
- Retail software usage
- Logistics co-ordination
- Sales promotion implementation
- Financial reporting
- Health and Safety regulations
- Brand Promotion
- Business Analytics
- Employee motivation techniques
References
Available on request.
Interests
Traveling around the world exploring new cultures and communities., Reading., Internet, Making electronic gadgets
Accomplishments
- Successfully completed Personal Development Program at Marks & Spencer, SSP.
- Holder of valid Personal license
- Successfully completed Fire & Evacuation test at Heathrow Airport
- Level 3 – Award in food & Safety Supervision.
Affiliations
- Traveling around the world exploring new cultures and communities
- Making electronic gadgets
Languages
English
Fluent
Sinhala
Native
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Store manager
Poundland
05.2019 - Current
Assistant Store Manager
Superdrug
07.2016 - 04.2019
Team Leader
M&S - Heathrow AirPort Terminal 5 & 2
07.2013 - 06.2016
Customer Service
BP Retail
11.2008 - 06.2013
GCSC (A/L) - Commerce, Accountancy, Economics, Geography
De Mazenod College
Diploma - Management
Charted Institute of Management
Certificate of Higher Education - IATA Ticketing
Sri Lankan Airlines
Higher Diploma - Travel and Tourism
Greenwich School of Management