Jaime Zilch
Wheaton
Summary
Dynamic visual merchandiser with a proven track record at Macy’s, excelling in display design and customer engagement. Expert in creating captivating visual experiences that drive sales and enhance brand recognition. Adept at collaborating with teams to implement strategic merchandising initiatives, showcasing strong creative thinking and effective communication skills.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Visual Merchandiser
Macy’s
Oak Brook
08.2018 - Current
- Curate and uphold visually appealing displays in windows, on shelves, and fashion panels throughout store.
- Collaborate with merchandisers to enhance visual impact of specific areas through strategic re-merchandising
- Planned seasonal changes in store layouts, including decorations, props and other visuals.
- Created window and in-store displays to promote new product launches.
- Designed visually appealing displays to enhance the shopping experience.
- Collaborated with team members to implement seasonal merchandise transitions.
Substitute Teacher, grades 1-8
School Districts 181, 68, and 44
08.2007 - Current
- Facilitated daily classroom activities and lesson plans across multiple grade levels.
- Collaborated with permanent teachers to understand lesson objectives and student needs.
- Assisted students with academic tasks and provided individualized support as needed.
- Managed classroom behavior and maintained a positive learning environment for students.
Sales Associate/Gift Registry and Design Studio Specialist
Pottery Barn Kids
Oak Brook
12.2007 - 09.2015
- Consulted with clients to design customized gift registries that meet specific needs.
- Enhanced client relationships through initial and ongoing service support.
- Tailored organization and décor of home spaces to individual client preferences.
- Rotated window displays, interior display areas, and signage to align with inventory changes.
Store Manager
Kie&Kate Couture
Elmhurst
09.2011 - 09.2012
- Designed and staged store for grand opening to maximize customer engagement.
- Led procurement of new merchandise to enhance product offerings.
- Established and adjusted window and interior displays for optimal visibility.
- Evaluated merchandise and set competitive pricing strategies.
- Managed current and new product supply to ensure availability.
- Conducted personal home shows and events to drive sales and brand recognition.
Merchandise Manager
J. Crew
Oak Brook
07.2002 - 06.2005
- Developed strategic plans for merchandise and store displays.
- Executed changes to window displays, interior areas, and signage based on inventory updates and promotions.
- Processed transactions accurately and efficiently at the point of sale.
- Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries.
Studio Manager
Bjornberg Photography
Chicago
06.1999 - 02.2002
- Coordinated all aspects of photo shoots to ensure smooth execution.
- Selected models for individual photo shoots based on project requirements.
- Managed purchasing and rental of products for various photo shoots.
- Oversaw billing and payroll processes to maintain budget accuracy.
Education
M.A.T. - Elementary Education, Language Arts
Northeastern Illinois University
Chicago, IL01.2007
B.A. - Fashion Merchandising, Management
Columbia College Chicago
Chicago, IL01.2001
Skills
- Visual merchandising
- Display design
- Fashion merchandising
- Customer engagement
- Team collaboration
- Creative thinking
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Visual Merchandiser
Macy’s
08.2018 - Current
Store Manager
Kie&Kate Couture
09.2011 - 09.2012
Sales Associate/Gift Registry and Design Studio Specialist
Pottery Barn Kids
12.2007 - 09.2015
Substitute Teacher, grades 1-8
School Districts 181, 68, and 44
08.2007 - Current
Merchandise Manager
J. Crew
07.2002 - 06.2005
Studio Manager
Bjornberg Photography
06.1999 - 02.2002
M.A.T. - Elementary Education, Language Arts
Northeastern Illinois University
B.A. - Fashion Merchandising, Management
Columbia College Chicago