Cory Downing
Steelville,Mo
Summary
Entrepreneur and business owner with more than 15 years of professional experience in sales, finance, retail operations, and team leadership. Proven background in managing financial workflows, customer relationships, inventory systems, and high-volume retail operations. Since acquiring The Surprise Shop LLC in October 2023, successfully modernized a 30-year legacy business, expanded e-commerce channels, implemented integrated technology systems, and led the company through substantial revenue growth. Demonstrates strong financial discipline, operational oversight, and the ability to scale a small business sustainably.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner / Operator
The Surprise Shop LLC
10.2023 - Current
- Manage all daily business operations including purchasing, budgeting, inventory planning, and financial oversight.
- Built and launched a modern, integrated sales ecosystem (Shopify, eBay, Clover POS, QuickSync).
- Expanded inventory and upgraded fulfillment systems to support rapid e-commerce growth.
- Oversaw facility expansion, including development of a dedicated high-volume shipping center.
- Achieved more than 72% year-over-year revenue growth in 2025.
- Maintain strong vendor relationships and community engagement initiatives.
Sales Manager / Finance Manager
Laura Auto Group
01.2012 - 09.2025
- Managed high-volume automotive sales operations with responsibility for financing, contracts, compliance, and customer relations.
- Structured financing terms, evaluated credit profiles, and worked with lenders daily — foundational skills that directly support responsible business loan management.
- Provided team leadership, training, and operational oversight.
- Consistently exceeded departmental sales targets while maintaining excellent customer satisfaction ratings.
- Gained extensive hands-on experience in financial analysis, consumer credit, and deal structuring.
Retail Sales Specialist
Best Buy
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Began professional sales career specializing in retail operations, customer service, and merchandising.
- Developed strong communication and sales skills foundational to later leadership roles.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Business Coursework
East Central College (ECC)
St Louis, MOSome College (No Degree) - Business Coursework
Missouri Western State University
Saint Joseph, MO01-2009
High School Diploma -
Sullivan High School
Cuba Mo01.2008
Skills
- Retail & E-commerce Operations
- Financial Management & Budgeting
- Credit Review & Lending Concepts
- Inventory Systems & Purchasing
- Leadership & Staff Training
- Customer Service & Community Engagement
- Technology Integration (Shopify, eBay, Clover, QuickSync)
- Improvement
Timeline
Owner / Operator
The Surprise Shop LLC
10.2023 - Current
Sales Manager / Finance Manager
Laura Auto Group
01.2012 - 09.2025
Retail Sales Specialist
Best Buy
01.2010 - 01.2012
Some College (No Degree) - Business Coursework
East Central College (ECC)
Some College (No Degree) - Business Coursework
Missouri Western State University
High School Diploma -
Sullivan High School