Amy Ward
Broken Bow,OK
Summary
Seasoned Small Business Advisor and former Business Owner with a proven track record at Choctaw Nation and Gypsy Bleu. Expert in strategic planning and leadership, I excel in fostering customer relationships and driving business growth. Demonstrated success in mentoring and problem resolution, enhancing operational efficiency and team productivity.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Small Business Advisor
Choctaw Nation
01.2022 - Current
- Support and guide clients of the Choctaw Small Business Development Services (CSBDS) Department by providing consultation and advisement on business ownership and management to ensure they are receiving quality business assistance and access to quality training and net working opportunities to grow their business.
- Advise Choctaw tribal member owned entrepreneurial enterprises on life cycle phases including developing concept, seeding, startups and early business executing to increase growth and profitability.
- Consult with entrepreneurs and new business owners on various phases of new business development and execution including strategic planning, marketing plans, market entrance costing, financial planning, operational development, organization design, product/ service price structuring, profitability analysis, etc.
- Deliver integrated and comprehensive instructional training courses and business advising service to local Choctaw tribal entrepreneurs.
- Counsel and provide technical assistance in the areas of business plans, marketing plans, financial plans, access to capital, and/ or other applicable areas.
- Helped businesses pivot in response to changing market conditions through thorough analysis and strategic planning.
Business Owner
Gypsy Bleu
05.2020 - 02.2022
- Established strong customer relationships through excellent communication and attentive service.
- Strengthened company reputation by consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations in terms of quality products/services offered.
- Prepared bank deposits and handled business sales, returns, and transaction reports.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Put together realistic budgets based upon costs and fees for successfully operating business.
- Maintained a safe work environment by enforcing strict safety protocols and regularly updating staff on industry best practices.
General Manager
Choctaw Casino
01.2005 - 05.2017
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
Kitchen Staff Member
Choctaw Casino
06.1997 - 01.2005
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, adhering to strict hygiene standards for optimal food safety.
- Maintained clean, trash-free workspaces to maximize productivity and safety.
- Cleaned and sanitized dishes and utensils, consistently keeping adequate supplies on hand for expected customer loads.
- Contributed to positive workplace culture through strong teamwork, open communication, and a commitment to excellence.
Education
High School Diploma -
Idabel High School
Idabel, OKSkills
- Effective Communication
- Leadership and team building
- Administrative Skills
- Customer Relationships
- Strategic Planning
- Problem Resolution
- Business Planning
Timeline
Small Business Advisor
Choctaw Nation
01.2022 - Current
Business Owner
Gypsy Bleu
05.2020 - 02.2022
General Manager
Choctaw Casino
01.2005 - 05.2017
Kitchen Staff Member
Choctaw Casino
06.1997 - 01.2005
High School Diploma -
Idabel High School