Michelle Obediente

Michelle Obediente has a diverse range of work experience spanning different roles and industries.

Starting in 1994, they worked as a Buyer Planner at Felix B. Maduro, where they managed buying budgets for the Home Department and developed buying programs for sale events.

In 1996, they joined PriceSmart as a Marketing Manager, responsible for introducing the PriceCostco brand to Central America and signing up new members. Michelle also played a key role in developing marketing materials and organizing events for the opening of the first three clubs.

From 2000 to 2002, Michelle worked as a Marketing Manager at Banco Continental de Panama, overseeing advertising and public relations campaigns for multiple business units. Michelle worked closely with creative teams and advertising partners to launch promotions and manage the institutional image of the bank.

In 2002, Michelle founded Eleganza International, S.A., Candyland, where they structured and developed a distribution company for dry goods and candies. Michelle managed purchasing, production, marketing, and advertising, as well as the opening of a retail store and specialty gift basket service.

Michelle then joined PriceSmart again in 2004 and held various roles. As a Regional Buyer for Central America and Colombia, they developed regional structures and managed departments for multinational accounts. In 2013, they became the General Merchandise Manager for the Central America and Colombia markets, responsible for negotiating with vendors and improving logistics efficiencies.

From 2015 to 2020, Michelle served as the Vice President Buying Foods - Regional at PriceSmart, where they directed regional buying teams and expanded buying power through global negotiations and diverse distribution channels.

Currently, Michelle works as the Vendor Success Director at American Foods, leading a team of brand managers to onboard and guide managed brands. Michelle plays a crucial role in managing strategic vendor relationships, supporting the sales team, and executing innovative marketing strategies.

Michelle Obediente obtained a Master's degree in Project Management from OBS Business School during the years 2023 to 2024. Prior to that, they pursued a degree in Communications with a focus on Marketing & Advertising at Simmons University from 1990 to 1994.