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Sara Chernus
Commercial Finance Manager - Wines, Champagnes & Prestige at Pernod Ricard
Professional Background
Sara Chernus is an accomplished finance manager renowned for her exceptional analytical skills and strategic approach to financial management. With extensive experience across various sectors, including beverage alcohol and luxury retail, Sara has successfully managed omnichannel businesses that encompass women's ready-to-wear, cosmetics, men’s apparel, and home goods. Her diverse background in both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce environments reflects her adaptability and capability to navigate the complexities of modern retail.
Sara's career began with her immersion in the world of luxury fashion at Bloomingdale's, where she held multiple positions including Planner, Senior Assistant Buyer, and Assistant Buyer. These roles equipped her with a solid foundation in buying and planning, enhancing her proficiency in inventory management and sales strategies. Throughout her time at Bloomingdale's, she consistently demonstrated her ability to manage multiple product lines while maintaining the delicate balance between supply, demand, and financial performance.
Most notably, Sara currently serves as the Commercial Finance Manager for the Wines, Champagnes, and Prestige division at Pernod Ricard. In this role, she employs her financial expertise to drive growth, ensuring that strategic decisions align with the overall goals of the company. Her role requires a keen understanding of both the wine and spirits market dynamics and luxury retail trends, making her an invaluable asset to the Pernod Ricard team.
Education and Achievements
Sara's academic journey began with studying at Horace Mann School, where she laid the groundwork for her analytical thinking skills. She then went on to obtain her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with Honors in Comparative Literature from Northwestern University. Her studies at one of the top universities in the nation not only honed her analytical abilities but also enriched her understanding of consumer behavior through literature and critical analysis.
Further broadening her educational background, Sara also studied at the Institut catholique de Paris—an experience that notably contributed to her global perspective on business and culture, which she has effectively leveraged throughout her career.
Achievements
Sara's journey in finance has been marked by several prestigious internships early in her career, including roles at Marchesa and Be & D, where she gained insights into sales and marketing. Additionally, her creative stint as a Creative and Copywriting Intern at Avon allowed her to explore the intersection of creativity and business strategy. Even as an intern at Crain's New York Business, she was exposed to the workings of financial journalism, further solidifying her analytical capabilities.
Through her blend of creativity and analytical prowess, Sara has established herself as a thought leader in the finance landscape, praised for her strategic insights and innovative approaches to financial challenges. She continues to explore new ways to optimize business performance while fostering a collaborative team environment in every role she undertakes.
