Alekcander Zhdanov
St Louis,MO
Summary
Ready to offer exceptional leadership to take on a new role, as I am a passionate and driven servant leader, who can positively impact the P&L with expertise in mentoring, coaching, and training, seeking to leverage my success as a Director of Operations across 12 states and 27 sites, with 12 direct reports and 200 indirect reports; and a Director of Operations with full ownership of the P&L. Profitability and sustainability are attained through the debunking of a deficit mindset and embedded low expectations of others, with knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodologies. Continuous improvement of all processes and team cohesiveness is only possible by empowering and affirming every team member beyond what is deemed possible. I am dedicated to continuous improvement and committed to achieving operational excellence via accountability within every KPI. Willing to relocate: Anywhere
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Operations
Brda Electric, Inc.
Fenton, MO
10.2025 - Current
- Established key performance indicators to monitor operational effectiveness and drive continuous improvement efforts.
- Led cross-functional teams in executing operational strategies, improving overall business performance and productivity.
- Streamlined operational workflows, enhancing efficiency and reducing downtime across all departments.
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to optimize supply chain processes and inventory management.
- Analyzed financial data to inform decision-making, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and budgetary constraints.
- Fostered a culture of collaboration and accountability among staff, mentoring leaders throughout the organization.
- Oversaw daily operations across multiple departments, ensuring seamless coordination and efficient execution of tasks.
- Monitored budget and utilized operational resources.
- Oversaw day-to-day production activities in accordance with business objectives.
- Conducted regular performance reviews to assess team progress, providing constructive feedback and guidance for continuous improvement.
- Collaborated with senior management to develop and execute long-term corporate goals and objectives.
- Mentored and coached team members to foster productive and engaging work environment.
- Managed budgets and resources, optimizing allocation for maximum impact on business objectives.
- Delivered exceptional customer experiences by implementing strategies focused on meeting evolving needs and expectations.
Director of Operations
McAlister Oil
St. Louis, MO
03.2024 - 10.2025
- Strategically lead operations within a multi-million dollar company with 27 sites across 12 states, overseeing 12 direct reports and 200 indirect reports, improving wage and R&M by 8-10% systemwide.
- Collaborate with senior officials at major railroads, including Union Pacific, BNSF, and Norfolk Southern, to drive operational change agendas, particularly with strategic fueling initiatives saving millions of dollars in fueling expenses.
- Develop and implement long-term operational goals and improvements to enhance site success and growth.
- Train, mentor, and coach regional and site managers, identifying improvement opportunities through performance management.
- Recruit team members with critical thinking skills and a strong work ethic, ensuring adherence to safety processes.
- Oversee the opening and setup of new sites, coordinating customer needs, staffing, scheduling, and full location setup.
- Review, monitor, and analyze budgets, developing budget plans focused on reducing R&M and wage expenses while influencing P&L categories such as depreciation and EBITDA.
- Collaborate with Human Resources and Safety to develop, update, and adhere to company procedures and policies.
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations at federal, state, and local levels.
General Manager
Leading Logistics Inc.
Cedar Rapids, IA
10.2023 - 03.2024
- Managed overall operation of a 12-truck, 12-driver fleet as a contractor for FedEx.
- Promoted longevity and profitability utilizing FMCSA regulations on HOS and safety compliance.
- Created and celebrated performance goals and objectives based on key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Adopted a proactive approach to preventative maintenance, reducing unnecessary breakdown costs.
- Applied conflict resolution techniques to enhance relationships and profits with drivers and contractors.
- Maintained inventory and financial records for the truck fleet to ensure long-term profitability.
Owner-Operator
Independent Contractor
Oklahoma City, OK
12.2021 - 10.2023
- Operated as a small business owner in freight logistics under a CDL Class A license.
- Maximized profits while ensuring compliance with DOT and FMCSA regulations.
- Focused on key performance indicators and conducted cost/benefit analyses to promote business sustainability and longevity.
- Maintained a strong safety record contributing positively to profitability.
Teacher – AP Macroeconomics & On-level Economics
Killeen Independent School District
Killeen, TX
09.2016 - 07.2020
- Implemented Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Teaching and Pedagogical practices to significantly increase student achievement and reduce discipline referrals.
- Enhanced online/distance learning experiences through various learning management systems.
- Served on committees influencing campus and district policies and evaluated new teachers as a mentor.
- Recognized as SHS Teacher of the Year, First Runner-up for two consecutive years.
International Purser
American Airlines, Inc.
Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
08.1999 - 02.2011
- Led the in-flight team, fostering exceptional customer service and safety, while managing in critical situations.
Education
Doctor of Education (ABD) - Curriculum & Instruction / Administrative Leadership
Northeastern University
Boston, MA6 2020
Master of Arts - Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR6 2016
Bachelor of Arts - Russian, Eastern European, and Eurasian Studies / Geography
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX5 2014
Skills
- Proficient in labor regulations
- Proficient in Microsoft Outlook
- Proficient in Microsoft Word
- Process optimization
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
- Data analysis
- Quantitative analysis expertise
- Financial oversight
- Process optimization expertise
- Professional development
- Presentation design
- Dispute resolution
- KPI analysis
- Team leadership
- Expertise in qualitative analysis
- Project coordination
- Performance assessment
- Proficient in Google Docs
- Analytical decision making
- Proficient in computer applications
- Client relationship management
- Effective communication
- Proficient in Windows operating system
- Extensive supervisory experience
- Advanced quantitative analysis
- Vendor management
- Product development expertise
- SOP development and execution
- Experienced with Google applications
- Experienced in creating PowerPoint presentations
- Expense oversight
- Financial expertise
- Effective communication expertise
- Effective organizational skills
- Excel proficiency
- Stakeholder engagement
- Logistics coordination
- Financial analysis
- Expense management
- Quantitative research skills
- Experienced with Google Suite applications
- Proven leadership skills
- Team leadership
- Skilled in client engagement
- Research and development expertise
- Cost analysis and pricing
- Coaching and skill enhancement
- Financial performance evaluation
- Proficient in labor regulations
Languages
Russian
Full Professional
Timeline
Director of Operations
Brda Electric, Inc.
10.2025 - Current
Director of Operations
McAlister Oil
03.2024 - 10.2025
General Manager
Leading Logistics Inc.
10.2023 - 03.2024
Owner-Operator
Independent Contractor
12.2021 - 10.2023
Teacher – AP Macroeconomics & On-level Economics
Killeen Independent School District
09.2016 - 07.2020
International Purser
American Airlines, Inc.
08.1999 - 02.2011
Master of Arts - Russian, East European, and Eurasian Studies
University of Oregon
Bachelor of Arts - Russian, Eastern European, and Eurasian Studies / Geography
The University of Texas at Austin
Doctor of Education (ABD) - Curriculum & Instruction / Administrative Leadership
Northeastern University