Amanda Caston
Houston
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven Sales & Training Manager with a background in designing, implementing and overseeing both internal and external training programs. Past roles have consistently resulted in improved employee competencies, increased productivity, and enhanced job satisfaction through innovative training strategies and leadership.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Training Program Manager
Topgolf USA
Houston
12.2018 - 03.2025
- Developed, implemented, and evaluated training programs for new hires and internal promotions for the sales team.
- Collaborated with subject matter experts to develop relevant courses that meet industry standards.
- Roleplayed various scenarios with sales teams to build confidence in handling incoming leads and business development.
- Maintained comprehensive databases to track training, certifications and qualifications.
- Traveled to newly opened venues to lead onboarding and monitor training activities to ensure compliance with established standards and procedures.
- Managed the sales pipeline and forecasted sales targets to ensure business objectives were met.
- Cultivated strong professional relationships with suppliers and key clients to drive long-term business development.
Social Media Marketing Coordinator
Big Texas, LLC
Spring
08.2012 - 06.2018
- Developed and implemented successful social media campaigns to support company objectives.
- Optimized posts for SEO purposes by researching relevant keywords and hashtags.
- Engaged with and responded to online audience through relevant comments.
- Provided feedback from past events to improve future ones in terms of quality, cost efficiency and customer experience.
- Monitored competitor activity within the local area and identified opportunities for growth.
- Created promotional materials, including brochures, flyers, videos and other media to support the marketing of events.
- Tracked event sales performance using CRM software and analyzed results to identify areas for improvement.
Director of Group Sales
Woodlands Strykers Baseball Club, Texas Collegiate
The Woodlands
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Maintained, developed, implemented, and maximized business plans through direct sales, digital marketing, and revenue management.
- Oversaw the recruitment, selection, and onboarding of new sales staff.
- Ensured effective internal and external communication with clients, potential ticket holders, associates, sponsors, and ownership.
- Conducted weekly inventory to track stock levels for gameday memorabilia and fan giveaways.
Training & Bar Manager
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
Tomball
01.2006 - 07.2012
- Conducted onboarding sessions to orientate new staff members about company policies and procedures.
- Provided coaching and mentorship programs for staff members.
- Facilitated training at 5 new restaurant openings with a focus on the waitstaff and bartenders.
- Ensured compliance with all food safety regulations and sanitation standards.
- Managed day-to-day operations of restaurant, including scheduling, budgeting, and inventory control.
- Resolved customer complaints in a professional manner to maintain positive relationships with guests.
- Provided excellent customer service by attending to guests' needs promptly and courteously.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Corporate Communication, Training & Development
University of Houston - Downton
Houston, TX12-2014
Skills
- Sales training and leadership
- Training program development
- Sales techniques
- Employee onboarding
- CRM software usage
- Presentation skills
- Remote team management
- Onboarding processes
- Customer relationship management
- Effective communication
Affiliations
- WFF; Women's Foodservice Forum Member 2024-2025
- WISE Houston; Women in Sports + Events Member 2018 - 2024
Accomplishments
- 40 Under 40, Nominated 2023; The Houston Business Journal
- 2 Million Club 2022, Topgolf ; First in the Spring, TX market to execute more than $2 million in Sales.
- Edgy Spirit Sales Award 2021, Topgolf; Executed highest enhancement sales brand wide.
- Living Our Values Award 2011, Red Robin; Awarded to one associate company wide who lives each day honoring the company core values and is committed to going above and beyond to provide unbridled acts to the community.
Timeline
Sales Training Program Manager
Topgolf USA
12.2018 - 03.2025
Social Media Marketing Coordinator
Big Texas, LLC
08.2012 - 06.2018
Director of Group Sales
Woodlands Strykers Baseball Club, Texas Collegiate
01.2012 - 01.2015
Training & Bar Manager
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
01.2006 - 07.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Corporate Communication, Training & Development
University of Houston - Downton