Riaz Merchant

Riaz Merchant's work experience begins in 2000 when they co-founded SOHO SHOES, INC., a concept store for high-end men's and women's shoes. Riaz successfully expanded the business to five locations across North Carolina and also launched a digital marketing and online business.

In 2013, Riaz joined the Bob Barker Company as a Sourcing Manager. Riaz negotiated multi-million-dollar payment terms with suppliers in Asia, exceeding the company's cash conversion cycle goal by 18%. Riaz also mapped the trade compliance program to ensure international trade compliance with U.S. regulations.

Riaz then progressed to the role of Director of Global Sourcing at Bob Barker. Riaz developed strategic planning for a $30+ million spend in Asia for the private brand business and implemented a factory direct model, resulting in a 7% price reduction. Riaz managed multi-cultural global teams in Asia, Central America, and the U.S.

In 2016, Riaz was promoted to Director of Procurement & Global Sourcing at Bob Barker. Riaz provided strategic direction and overall leadership for procurement and global sourcing, managing an $80+ million procurement budget for import and domestic sourced products across Asia and North & Central America. Riaz focused on enhancing asset utilization to deliver improved turns, higher margins, service level, and Net Promoter Score.

Since January 2023, Riaz has been serving as the Director of Global Supply Chain at Bob Barker, responsible for overseeing the supply chain operations and providing strategic guidance.

Overall, Riaz Merchant has demonstrated their expertise in procurement, sourcing, global supply chain, and business development throughout their career.

Riaz Merchant attended the College of Textiles at NC State, where they studied Textile. Riaz later attended North Carolina Central University, where they obtained a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration & Finance. In addition to their formal education, Riaz has obtained a Certificate of Achievement in the Achievers Program from the Bell Leadership Institute and a certification in Textile Fundamentals from North Carolina State University.