Vlad Kharaz

• Managed multiple entrepreneurial product development projects from initiation through implementation.
• Produced and presented an innovative Emergency Escape Respirator system as a finalist in a Department of Homeland Security-sponsored challenge.
• Designed and developed an upscale business travel collection of packs and bags, establishing an online sales presence and brand identity.

Managed the entire product development process, from product planning to design and analysis, including functionality, style, ergonomics, and regulatory compliance, for an $80 million global supplier of casual travel and outdoor adventure gear.
• Oversaw the operations of a $10 million adventure travel gear division while coordinating
relationships among executives, sales staff, vendors, and testers.
• Played a vital role in transitioning adventure travel product lines from value-based, mass-produced bags to groundbreaking, original products, achieving the company’s primary strategic goal of becoming the premier outdoor travel gear supplier.
• Developed best-selling packs, earning the company #3 best seller status for hydration packs in the U.S. market and #1 status for hydration packs under $30, with no marketing or advertising.
• Reconfigured the Pro Series ski-bag line to include the best features, materials, and style while maintaining competitive price points.
• Spearheaded the effort to strengthen the relationship with the U.S. Ski, Snowboarding, and Freeskiing teams, serving as the Official Supplier of bags for the world’s best athletes.
• Oversaw a rigorous manufacturer, retail, and field-testing process, ensuring compliance with established industry-standard procedures to guarantee exceptional quality.

• Designed and developed the Tech Series hydration pack line that incorporated a unique ventilated
back-panel system, enabling the generation of annual revenue of over $2 million from a single product through high-volume orders from prominent big-box retailers, including Costco Wholesale.
• Managed a multi-year continuous improvement initiative for over 50 ski-bags across three product lines, establishing the company as having the best-in-industry performance and pricing program.
• Facilitated a six-month development effort for DeWalt Tool accessories, including belts and bags.
• Conducted in-depth competitive research, implemented innovative styling and structural solutions, and completed the product development process in partnership with manufacturers in Asia.

• Provided comprehensive product, packaging, web, and graphic design services, collaborating with over 10 clients across various industries.
• Developed product specifications, created 3D-CAD models, designed marketing materials, and offered expert advice regarding patent applications for housewares and accessories.
• Established a web presence and completed graphic design projects for several companies.

• Managed a multimillion-dollar Internet Protocol (IP) network project for Level 3 Communications (one of the largest IP networks in North America) and directed the installation of fiber-optic cabling across the Chicagoland area.
• Received the Best Overall Award Grade from the client for project management excellence.
• Oversaw more than 10 sites, including the Chicago Board of Trade, while monitoring, inspecting, and recording work completed by numerous cabling and electrical contractors.
• Documented the installation process and material use expenditures of up to $6 million per month.

• Designed major components for at least seven types of industrial forklift trucks for a $2.1 billion
global manufacturer and distributor of award-winning material handling equipment.
• Improved complex electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic components, maximizing efficiency and minimizing waste, resulting in significant cost savings.
• Developed 3D CAD models and built appearance and functional prototypes used for product testing, presentations, and catalog advertising.