Paul Rutenis
About Paul Rutenis
Paul Rutenis serves as the Chief Merchandising Officer at GrowGeneration Corp, bringing over 25 years of retail experience. He has held various leadership roles in notable companies and has a strong focus on team development and strategic outcomes.
Current Role at GrowGeneration
Paul Rutenis serves as the Chief Merchandising Officer at GrowGeneration Corp, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the merchandising strategies that drive the company's growth in the horticultural sector. His focus is on developing effective product assortments and pricing strategies that align with market trends and customer needs. Rutenis's leadership contributes to the overall success of GrowGeneration, which operates a chain of retail hydroponic and organic gardening stores across the United States.
Previous Experience in Retail
Rutenis has over 25 years of experience in the retail sector, having held various leadership positions. He worked as Chief Merchant at RadioShack from 2013 to 2015, where he managed product selection and pricing strategies. Prior to that, he served as Executive Vice President of Merchandising, Planning, Allocation, and Logistics at West Marine from 2015 to 2018. His experience also includes roles at JCPenney as Senior Vice President of General Merchandise Management for Home and at DICK'S Sporting Goods as Divisional Merchandise Manager for Lodge Outdoors.
Education and Qualifications
Paul Rutenis holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business/Marketing from Clemson University. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from St. Louis University. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his extensive career in retail, equipping him with the necessary skills in business strategy and marketing.
Teaching Experience
From 2019 to 2021, Rutenis served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of North Texas in Dallas, Texas. During this time, he shared his extensive knowledge of the retail industry with students, focusing on practical applications of merchandising and business strategies. His teaching experience reflects his commitment to education and mentorship within the field.
Leadership and Team Development
Rutenis advocates for a team-oriented atmosphere in the workplace. He is committed to coaching and developing team members to enhance their skills and strengthen business units. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration and support, aiming to create a positive environment that fosters growth and success for both individuals and the organization.