Manolis Lekkas

Responsible for Global Sales and Business Steering of distributors’ Network. Modeling and Evaluation of optimal RouteToMarket strategies and development of Framework of Distributor Operating Model. Project leadership of global expansion of newly acquired US brands. Extensive involvement in Russia, redefining and implementing new GtM, restructuring a 250 strong national direct sales force. Extended GtM and Commercial Audit in China, Thailand, France and Japan and steering of Action Plan’s implementation.

* Increased live program by signing established presenters while agreeing to adapt their shows to fit Alpha’s character. Live program is close to 75 hours weekly. Renegotiated contract renewals with major presenters. * Increased dramatically other revenues by strengthening product placement and interactivity. * Launched first true tv companion application with close to 240.000 downloads. * Increased viewership share & revenues, reduced costs resulting in spectacular reduction of losses.

* Re-launched and expanded market leading food supplement brand (Lanes) with repeatedly successful new product developments, including world innovations. * Optimized Product Portfolio of P&G (Clearblue), Sanofi (Oenobiol) and 3M (Nexcare, Futuro). * Gained market share and increased further profitability with local EBIT reaching 25%. * Managed Darphin, Origins, Korff via selective distribution and free standing store. * Completed acquisition (PiC, Serenity) adding 25% in Sales and EBIT.

* Supported individual brand image of demanding luxury brands (Boss, Cavalli, Ferre, Versace, Nina Ricci, Lempicka, Ferragamo, CdG, Orlane, Juvena, Pupa) * Advanced education, motivation, remuneration and reporting systems for team of 150+ Beauty Advisors. * Developed Plans acquiring new Brands from Puig (Prada), P&G (Valentino), ITF (Dsquared2), and Coty.

* Took over from founders and turned around the $ 110 million company retaining creative spirit .New corporate identity and vision, almost all lines relaunched, new product launches and campaigns, image shows, educational and PR events involving global talent including celebrities like Sharon Stone. * Complete redrawing of distribution map in the USA to combine Wella and Sebastian distributors, took over distribution in 20 countries worldwide and turned it over to Wella subsidiaries

* Turnaround and energized the €42 million Company by appointing and coaching new General Managers in both Salon and Retail divisions, strengthening customer centric focus, amplifying Major Product launches, implementing new software, closing down factory, negotiating with union and increasing productivity. * Wella Hellas became one of the most successful subsidiaries for Wella worldwide, showing consistent annual sales growth of 20% with exemplary profitability.

* Gained market share from competitors like L’Oreal and P&G, built relationships with retailers through innovative category management and education on upcoming discounter trend

Top 5% student, Grade: Excellent

Strategy and Marketing