Suggestions
Nic Keneipp
VP Sales Business Development at Happi Foodi
Professional Background
Nic Keneipp is a seasoned expert in omnichannel buying and planning, with a remarkable twelve years of dedicated experience at Walmart. His career has been marked by significant contributions across various roles that have enhanced both customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. In the early years of his career, Nic excelled as a buyer and planner in the Food & Beverage categories, serving a diverse demographic through 5,000 Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets. His strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics laid the foundation for his subsequent advancement in the industry.
After spending eight impactful years in the Food & Beverage category, Nic transitioned to Walmart.com, where he embraced the challenge of leading planning and buying in the Home Division. His innovative mindset and analytical prowess were critical in driving digital transformation and enhancing the customer experience online.
Currently, Nic is making substantial strides as the Planning Director for Walmart eCommerce in San Francisco, CA. In this prominent role, he leads a talented team of 18 Planning Managers and specialists, steering planning strategies that align with Walmart's commitment to customer obsession and operational excellence. His leadership has played a pivotal role in Walmart's digital acceleration, especially after moving to the vibrant tech hub of San Francisco in 2016.
Education and Achievements
Nic holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Apparel and Textiles from Indiana University Bloomington. His education provided a strong foundation for his career, equipping him with the skills necessary to understand consumer behavior, product design, and market trends. This background has undoubtedly influenced his approach to buying and planning in various product categories.
In addition to his academic achievements, Nic participated in the prestigious Walmart Stores, Inc Merchandising Leadership Academy in the Fall of 2011, where he refined his leadership skills and acquired advanced knowledge in merchandising strategies. This experience has further cemented his reputation as a leader in the field, making him a valuable asset to any organization.
Notable Positions and Roles
Throughout his career at Walmart, Nic has occupied several important positions, each adding to his extensive portfolio of experience and expertise. His journey began as a Summer Intern at Shoe Carnival, where he gained initial insights into the retail industry. This early exposure to buying practices set the stage for his successful transition to Walmart, where he evolved from a Buyer Trainee in Seasonal Footwear to significant roles in planning and merchandising.
As a Sr. Buyer in several categories, including Floorcare, Refrigeration, Cleaning Appliances, Frozen Pizza, Breakfast, and Adult Beverage - Wine & Spirits, Nic honed his negotiation and product sourcing skills, getting to know the intricacies of supplier relationships and market demands. Each of these roles demonstrated his ability to tackle different market segments effectively.
Later, he served as the Merchandise Manager for Appliances & Home Storage, where he oversaw the eCommerce segment of these categories. His expert knowledge and customer-focused strategies led to remarkable advancements in product offerings and customer engagement strategies.
As Vice President of Sales Business Development at Happi Foodi, Nic is also expanding his influence beyond Walmart, contributing to another dynamic organization that aligns with his passion for innovative food solutions.
In summary, Nic Keneipp's career is a testament to his commitment to excellence in omnichannel buying and planning. His strategic insights and tireless dedication to customer satisfaction continue to drive his success. Whether through digital transformation in eCommerce or innovative product assortment strategies, Nic's impact is evident in the seamless shopping experience he helps to create for millions of Walmart customers.
