World Food Program Representative,2004 - 2010
Dimitrios Karanikas
Senior Sales And Training Manager
Athens,I
Summary
Strategic Team Builder With 25+ years of experience in sales, retail, and marketing across leading international companies. I bring a strong background in training, team development and multicultural collaboration. Passionate about customer-centric strategies, team empowerment, and driving business growth through innovation and efficiency. Skilled in managing multi-site operations, e-commerce platforms, and cross-functional teams with a hands-on and inspirational leadership style.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
3
3
Languages
Work History
Area Manager
HELIOTROPIC
03.2023 - Current
- Overseeing operations of three stores across Greece for a leading men's fashion retailer.
- Spearheaded new store openings and established standardized operational procedures.
- Designed and delivered structured onboarding and sales training programs, enhancing team skills and consistency across locations.
- Directed recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training for sales teams to ensure consistent performance and customer experience.
- Drove regional sales growth by optimizing stock control, refining visual merchandising, and leading local marketing initiatives.
- Collaborated with HQ to align business goals with regional KPIs, reporting insights and proposing strategic adjustments.
Store Manager
HELIOTROPIC - TUSK
03.2023 - 08.2024
- Oversaw the setup and launch of the flagship store, coordinating with architects, suppliers, and visual merchandisers to ensure brand consistency and timely delivery.
- Build a strong effective team and developed internal coaching systems, conducting weekly 1:1 training sessions and group workshops to improve product knowledge and customer engagement.
- Improved sales by implementing data-driven merchandising strategies.
- Managed full profit & loss responsibilities and maintained strong cost control.
- Cultivated a high-performance culture that resulted in exceptional customer service scores and team satisfaction.
E-Commerce Executive
SELFRIDGES GROUP
09.2015 - 01.2023
- Played a key role in maintaining Selfridges' e-commerce excellence and international reputation.
- Developed innovative digital retail concepts and content for the online platform.
- Delivered exceptional service to high-end global clientele, resolving complex issues with speed and professionalism.
- Worked closely with tech and marketing teams to enhance UX and streamline customer journeys.
- Training new team members in customer service protocols and digital platform tools, ensuring service consistency and brand alignment.
- Consistently recognized for quality, accuracy, and alignment with Selfridges' premium service standards.
V.I.P. Sales Executive
BETCLIC EVEREST GROUP
04.2014 - 07.2015
- Reactivated high-value accounts and expanded customer base through targeted outreach.
- Contributed to onboarding and peer-to-peer training of new agents, (Greek language), sharing successful outreach methods and CRM techniques.
- Built strong relationships with international VIP clients, increasing loyalty and engagement.
Marketing & Sales Manager
K-PROVOLI
05.2004 - 12.2012
- Led creative event projects and marketing campaigns with key public and private stakeholders.
- Recruiting and training staff members for diverse events
- Conceived and launched the first major Greek festival on nutrition (Breakfast Festival).
- Managed cross-channel promotional strategies and secured national sponsorships.
Marketing Manager
CORMED INTERNATIONAL
11.2002 - 03.2004
- Represented the company in top-tier medical exhibitions and events.
- Conducted competitive analysis and coordinated new business initiatives.
Area Manager – OTC Division
GLAXOSMITHKLINE
09.2000 - 11.2002
- Grew product sales by 80% in the first year through relationship-building with healthcare professionals and pharmacies.
Sales Supervisor
NESTLÉ
07.1997 - 09.2000
- Managed 900+ clients and six major reps.
- Delivered consistent growth in client acquisition and revenue.
Education
BSc - Business Studies-Business Administration
I.E.S.E. Commercial College of Thessaloniki
01.1991
Skills
Business development and planning
Team collaboration enhancement
Operational efficiency management
Workforce education
Team leadership
Sales proficiency
Staff scheduling management
Team leadership
Project management
Strategic team engagement
Effective negotiation
Strategic goal alignment
Meticulous attention to specifics
References
Available upon request
Interests
VIP & Athlete Liaison, Athens 2004 Olympics 2004
Timeline
Area Manager
HELIOTROPIC
03.2023 - Current
Store Manager
HELIOTROPIC - TUSK
03.2023 - 08.2024
E-Commerce Executive
SELFRIDGES GROUP
09.2015 - 01.2023
V.I.P. Sales Executive
BETCLIC EVEREST GROUP
04.2014 - 07.2015
Marketing & Sales Manager
K-PROVOLI
05.2004 - 12.2012
Marketing Manager
CORMED INTERNATIONAL
11.2002 - 03.2004
Area Manager – OTC Division
GLAXOSMITHKLINE
09.2000 - 11.2002
Sales Supervisor
NESTLÉ
07.1997 - 09.2000
BSc - Business Studies-Business Administration
I.E.S.E. Commercial College of Thessaloniki