Mark Owens
Phone: (256) 426-4764 Fax: (256) 489-9095 E-mail:
2714 Thornton Circle • Huntsville, AL 35801
Summary
Currently an Independent Sales Representative, territory includes Alabama, Tennesee and the panhandle of Florida. Twenty years of business to business sales and management experience with Marks Fitzgerald Furniture, Barrow Fine Furniture, Inc. and Owens Company South, Inc.
Accomplishments and Responsibilities
Ultra Shield - 2009-2010
Finished in the top 3 out of 50 sales representatives in the most recent sales contest by opening 8 new accounts in 6 weeks and by expanding the business of existing accounts.
The Powell Company - 2005-2007
As an Associate Sales Representative for North Alabama opened 35 new accounts in 24 months.
Progressive Furniture - 2007-2008
As an Associate Sales Representative for Progressive and Royal Patina in North Alabama opened 22 new accounts in 12 months.
Med-Lift and Mobility - 2006-2009
Opened 21 new accounts and increased the business of existing accounts in the territory.
Marks Fitzgerald Furniture - 1999-2005
Increased sales from 3 million to 4 million in four years, increased sales 4 out of 6 years until new competition and shrinking margins forced the closure of the business in June 2005.
Barrow Fine Furniture - 1997-1998
Hired a new staff (including office, warehouse, and sales personnel). Implemented a new sales accountability program. Ranked among the top three stores in the company based on gross profit margin.
Owens Furniture Galleries - 1985-1995
Spear-headed the conversion of a catalog surplus business into an upscale furniture and home accessories gallery, increasing sales from $600,000 to 1.7 million. Negotiated the purchase of all inventory and hired sales staff. Administered John F. Lawhon’s Selling Retail sales training system.
Owens Company South, Inc. - 1985-1995
Negotiated exclusive contracts with U.S. based airlines to purchase all unclaimed property and air cargo for its wholly owned subsidiary Unclaimed Baggage Center. At the time the company was sold in 1995 O.C.S. held exclusive contracts with the eight largest airlines in the U.S.
Company liaison to various government agencies and trade associations such as the F.A.A. and A.T.A.
O.C.S.’s point man for all media inquires including features in the New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Oprah.
Page 2 Owens
Experience
Independent Sales Representative - 2005-Present
Currently Represent:
Clearwater American Furniture - 2006-Present
Primarily a direct container importer of higher-end case goods but has recently launched a small warehouse program in North Carolina.
Soflex Furniture - 2007-Present
An importer of leather upholstery.
Previous Employment:
Owner, Marks Fitzgerald Furniture - 1999-2005
A retail furniture store in Huntsville, Alabama.
Manager, Barrow Furniture Huntsville Alabama - 1997-1998
One of Alabama’s largest privately owned furniture chains with 6 stores in Alabama and Florida.
Vice President, Owens Company South, Inc. - 1985-1995
A closely held corporation comprised of the following subsidiaries:
Unclaimed Baggage Center - A unique service/retail business specializing in the sale of unclaimed personal property and cargo.
Owens Furniture Galleries - Furniture and accessories retail stores that purchased market samples from wholesale companies selling those samples in upscale retail galleries.
Education
Samford University
Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance 1985