Get to Know: Mark Perfitt

Work Experience

Whirlpool Financial Corporation, Director of Corporate Operations – Inventory Finance and Director of Region Sales & Marketing – Consumer Finance, 1984-1995
American General Corporation, Associate Director – Retail Sales & Marketing – Central US, 1995-2001
Wells Fargo Financial Corporation, Regional Sales Manager – Eastern US and VP of National Accounts – Business Development, 2001-2008
Fifth Third Bank, VP of Business Development – Commercial Banking, 2008-2010
MEGA Group / Nationwide Marketing Group, Field Marketing Manager, VP Sales Team Manager, KEY Accounts Manager and Member Support Manager, 2010-present

Education

John Wiley Jones School of Business – State University of New York 1984, BS in Business Management
Haworth College of Business – Western Michigan University 1994, MBA with concentrations in Finance and Marketing

Awards/Certifications

Fellow Life Management Institute (FLMI) designation from LOMA, Accredited Customer Service (ACS) designation from LOMA

Professional Organizations

American Management Association

Total years of experience with the independent channel/retail

36 years

What motivates you to get up and go to work for the Independent retailer every day?

Knowing that I can help Members make their businesses more efficient, more effective and more profitable with the implementation and integration of NMG programs and services. I really enjoy being able to make a positive contribution to a Member’s business.

Tell us about your role at NMG.

My role is to consult and understand our Members’ needs, then communicate and assist with implementing programs and service solutions for their businesses. I discuss and review day-to-day issues and practical solutions with them but also address business strategies for the future.

Why did you want to come work at NMG?

NMG represents a diverse group of business owners, multiple product categories, and a wide array of business programs and services, and allows me to leverage my background and experience to make a positive impact in our Members’ businesses.

Why do you think NMG is the best buying group for Independent retailers in today’s climate?

We are positioned and committed to support and assist our Members to successfully adapt to the changing business environment and the “new” retail norm.

What is the most important project you are working on right now, and why?

Educating and reviewing internet and online strategies with Members, and then implementing and integrating solutions for their businesses so that they remain competitive now and into the future.

What is your favorite memory from your time at NMG?

A meet-and-greet with retired U.S. Navy Admiral William McRaven at our August 2018 PrimeTime show. I really enjoyed the opportunity to discuss my past U.S. Navy Submarine Spec Ops service with him.

What do you like most about your job?

Every day is different – no two days are the same! I appreciate the opportunity to work with a diverse group of Members, vendors and fellow employees covering multiple industries, product categories and business services, and facilitate meaningful solutions to daily challenges.

What else do you want people to know about you and NMG?

I’m a 20-year USSF Soccer referee and coach and an adjunct professor at Oakland City University, where I teach Marketing / Management.

I also follow these guiding principles (10 Things That Require Zero Talent):

1. Being on time
2. Work ethic
3. Effort
4. Body language
5. Energy
6. Attitude
7. Passion
8. Being coachable
9. Doing extra
10. Being prepared