Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
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Ashley Heinkel

Ashley Heinkel

Horticultural Educator
Portland,US

Summary

Experienced sales associate, horticultural educator, and self-sufficiency skill-builder known for exemplary leadership and project oversight skills. Gifted with having a strengths-based approach to working with all types of personalities in various environments. Performance history of developing strong collaborative relationships and delivering impressive results.

Work History

Sales Associate

Loen Nursery
08.2021 - 05.2022

● Primary duties include horticultural sales and landscape design consultation in customer-focused nursery, providing in-depth horticultural knowledge and expertise on plants and landscaping.
● Use of botanical plant knowledge and scientific plant terminology.
● Merchandising and display arrangement.
● Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
● Inventory counts and organization to maximize sales.
● Daily watering and pruning.
● Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
● Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
● Phone sales including quoting prices, credit terms, and bid specifications.
● Solved customer challenges by offering relevant products and services.
● Served customers with knowledgeable, friendly support at every stage of shopping and purchasing.
● Built relationships with customers and community to promote long term business growth.
● Informed customers of promotions to increase sales productivity and volume.

Garden Center Associate

Fred Meyer
01.2020 - 08.2020
  • Main responsibilities include home and garden retail sales focused on garden supplies and home improvement products.
  • Daily supervision and task delegation of less experienced associates in manager's absence.
  • Worked outdoors in all weather conditions to care for plants and serve customers.
  • Completed opening, closing, and shift change tasks efficiently to keep store ready for guests.
  • Received freight and restocked shelves in home and garden department with new plants and home merchandise, including building product displays and rotating inventory for optimal appearance and quality.
  • Responsible for daily watering of entire garden center and other store display areas in all seasonal weather.
  • Maintained plant health and attractiveness with proper care.
  • Identified and controlled pests and diseases.
  • Answered customer questions about products and services, helped locate merchandise, and promoted key items.
  • Listened to customer needs and desires to identify and recommend optimal products
  • Built customer loyalty and retention by delivering excellent shopping experiences.
  • Prioritized helping customers over completing other routine tasks in store.
  • Monitored customers for signs of security concerns and escalated issues to loss prevention department.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of store sales, payment policies and security standards.
  • Managed efficient cash register operations.
  • Use of hand truck to move equipment and display large pallets of merchandise.
  • Assembly and breakdown of seasonal greenhouse display equipment.
  • Maintained walkways and paths throughout garden center and home department for safe navigation.
  • Created inviting environment for customers by maintaining store organization and cleanliness.
  • Plant vendor receiving and invoice review to assure order accuracy.

Shift Supervisor

CVS Health
10.2019 - 02.2020
  • Completed store opening and closing procedures and balanced tills to maintain accuracy.
  • Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required including daily price changes.
  • Trained new employees and delegated daily tasks.
  • Completed cash and credit card transactions accurately using POS software, and monitored self-checkout systems providing help in resolving complex problems.
  • Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
  • Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
  • Identified and resolved discrepancies and errors in customer accounts.
  • Answered questions about store policies and addressed customer concerns.
  • Acting as part of management team to meet standards of service and quality in daily operations.
  • Enforced company policies and regulations with employees.
  • Maintained clean and well-organized production areas to avoid violations or unnecessary work delays due to hazards or inefficient layouts.
  • Conducted routine inspections to check quality and meet daily compliance with established specifications.
  • Applied security, safety, and loss prevention strategies during shifts as well as police department interaction.
  • Managed shift operations, supplied resources and monitored team performance to keep business profitable and running smoothly.
  • Managed inventory and ordered supplies to keep location stocked with necessary supplies.
  • Resolved conflicts between employees to maintain positive and productive work environments.
  • Completed daily financial activities for upper-management to inform decision-making.
  • Conducted performance reviews and provided staff with feedback and guidance.
  • Developed and implemented new processes and procedures to streamline operations.

Cashier/Collective Manager

Alberta Cooperative Grocery
12.2018 - 09.2019

● Acted primarily as cashier and collective manager in a customer/employee-owned health food store.
● Presented professional image consistent with company's brand values.
● Stayed current on company offerings and industry trends.
● Greeted customers and offered assistance with finding wellness and grocery products, and opening member accounts.
● Served customers with knowledgeable, friendly support at every stage of shopping and purchasing.
● Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in high-volume, high-stress situations.
● Informed customers of promotions to increase sales productivity and volume.
● Fielded customer complaints and facilitated negotiations, resolving issues, as well as law-enforcement interaction to resolve frequent security issues.
● Accurately processed POS transactions.
● Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
● Recorded accurate and efficient records in customer database regarding store memberships and owner accounts.
● Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
● Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
● Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability, store appearance, and product quality.
● Performed effectively in self-directed work environment, managing day-to-day operations and decisions.
● Contributed to team objectives through monthly collective-manager meetings outside of regular schedule.
● Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
● Quickly and accurately counted drawers at start and end of each shift.
● Prepared tills for each cashier, documented weekly safe deposit totals, as well as weekly bank drop.

Sales Associate

Birkenstock
02.2018 - 09.2018

● Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
● Serviced multiple customers at once, multi-tasked and enthusiastically handled special projects.
● Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
● Operated cash register and managed efficient cash register operations.
● Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
● Grew product knowledge and fashion expertise continually, helped customers find shoes to complement outfits and suggested items to match needs.
● Provided product demonstrations to highlight features, benefits and
value features and increase customer satisfaction.
● Organized store merchandise racks by size, style, and color to maintain clean, visually-appealing showroom.
● Assembled promotional displays to increase brand awareness and attract customers.
● Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
● Measured customers' feet using Brannock device to determine proper shoe size.
● Managed returns, exchanges, refunds and repair orders in accordance with store policy, including knowledge of product warranties.
● Registered customer information on database to maintain accurate records for RedWing international and state accounts.
●Opened and closed store independently as key holder.

Cashier/Wellness Advisor Sales Associate

Alive And Well Natural Foods
02.2018 - 09.2018

● Provided friendly and knowledgeable customer service with emphasis on health foods and natural wellness products.
● Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
● Received and prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
● Organized racks and shelves and rotated stock to maintain store visual appeal, organization, and quality assurance.
● Operated POS system with accuracy and efficiency and managed customer returns.
● Counted cash drawers at beginning and end of shifts and monitored cash supply to maintain accurate and adequate cash drawers.
● Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in team environment.
● Self-motivated, with strong sense of personal responsibility.
● Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
● Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
● Handled customer inquiries and suggestions courteously and professionally.
● Clarified customer issues and determined root cause of problems to resolve product or service complaints.
● Maintained clean and orderly checkout areas by mopping floors, emptying trash cans and wiping down surfaces.
● Conducted inventory counts by adding each item in stock and documenting in computer system.

Housekeeping Attendant

Paia Inn Hotel
03.2017 - 01.2018

● Completed pre-cleaning duties by setting up cleaning carts with fresh linens, cleaning supplies, and requested guest supplies.
● Removed bed sheets and towels from rooms and pre-treated stains to maintain and restore linen condition.
● Hand-dusted and wiped down office furniture, fixtures, and window sills to keep areas clean and comfortable.
● Swept high ceilings, tight spaces and around furniture to remove built up dust and cobwebs.
● Washed and put away kitchen dishes, utensils and glassware.
● Replaced used towels and other bathroom amenities.
● Disposed of trash and recyclables each day to avoid waste buildup.
● Slid beds, sofas, and other furniture aside to wipe down baseboards and remove dust and dirt from hard-to-reach areas.
● Sanitized all kitchen surfaces, wiped down cabinets, and swept and mopped floors
● Kept building entryway glass clean and polished for professional presentation.
● Engaged with guests on room requirements and amenities to promote overall satisfaction.
● Responded to requests from patrons for linens and toiletries.
● Trained new employees on departmental procedures and provided assistance in finding cleaning supplies.
● Liaised with other departments to coordinate housekeeping requirements and resolve issues and concerns.
● Used chemicals by following safety protocols and procedures to avoid burns and injuries.
● Sorted, laundered and put away various laundry items.
● Restocked cleaning storage cabinets, carts and baskets for easy use.
● Maintained spaces with routine upkeep and basic repairs, coordinating with management on more advanced needs.
● Maintained daily upkeep of outdoor beachside areas and outdoor showers as well as care of outdoor plants.

Freelance Landscaper

Private Contract/Bill Mollison
09.2016 - 09.2017

● Landscape manager for 3 acre private estate maintaining grounds by trimming, weeding, lawn care, and general clean-up.
● Utilized power tools and landscaping machines including riding lawn mower, weed whacker, edger for grounds maintenance and clearing.
● Performed planting, watering, mulching, and pest prevention.
● Planted and cultivated various outdoor tropical plants/trees and maintained indoor houseplants/orchids.
● Utilized creative design techniques to maximize aesthetic appeal of landscaping projects according to customer preferences.
● Educated clients on proper care and maintenance of landscaping projects.
● Developed and implemented strategies for pest and disease control.
● Applied fertilizers and pesticides to outdoor areas according to safety standards.
● Prepared soil for planting and sowing.
● Monitored and evaluated condition of trees, shrubs, lawns and flowerbeds.
● Collaborated with estate owner to plan and design outdoor spaces.

School Garden Coordinator

Hawaii Department Of Education
08.2016 - 03.2017

● Providing leadership, guidance, and support to 5 classes of 15-20 high school-aged students, (including special ed classes), of various skill levels in outdoor school garden setting, implementing a pathway curriculum centered on methods of sustainable farming.
● Emphasized multi-cultural awareness by integrating traditional Hawaiian farming methods and crops, as well as incorporating La'au lapa'au (Hawaiian Herbalism) and Hawaiian Ethnobotanical studies.
● Introduced key concepts including soil building and composting methods, plant propagation, vermiculture, plant/animal husbandry, and beekeeping.
● Explored other topics such as permaculture, hugulculture, heirloom/organic varieties, seed-saving, tropical fruit tree maintenance, tool safety, and alternative garden bed installation using reclaimed
materials.
● Helped students explore concepts with engaging, learning-focused activities.
● Focused on informal/outdoor methods of teaching to keep students engaged, providing a safe educational experience.
● Collaborated with indoor instructor to ensure learning outcomes through development of test questionnaires and vocabulary material.
● Monitored student progress and adjusted instruction to meet individual needs.
● Modified lessons and curriculum to accommodate diverse learners by using strategies such as peer-assisted learning and group work.
● Collaborated with colleagues to develop and revise curriculum, enhancing learning experience.
● Developed and implemented useful behavior management strategies to instill discipline and compliance with conduct code, including interaction with school security.
● Met with students and administrators to address and resolve students' behavioral conduct and academic issues.
● Increased educational expertise and knowledge by participating in instructor trainings through affiliated organizations -Grow Some Good and Maui School Garden Network.
● Sourced, purchased, and transported garden
materials/supplies/donations to support planned lessons and activities.
● Organized and conducted student field trips to local area farms, as well as arranging and hosting educational guest speakers.

Farm Manager/Intern Trainer

Coconut Glens Farm And Roadside Ice Cream Stand
03.2014 - 06.2014

● Managed four acre farm and affiliated roadside ice cream stand.
● Hired, trained and supervised seasonal workers engaged in cultivation and harvest.
● Led team of 5 (or more) skilled and unskilled farm personnel.
● Planned schedule for crop rotation, plantings, harvest, and land reclamation projects.
● Worked closely with interns to improve practices, techniques and safety choices, optimizing performance, and minimizing waste.
● Adjusted production strategies to account for changing factors such as weather conditions.
● Analyzed soil to measure pH, minerals and organics to judge best fertilizer and amendments for maximum crop production.
● Directed sustainable waste recycling operations to reduce environmental impact.
● Researched pests and diseases common to individual types of stock and developed mitigation plans.
● Used skills to propagate new plants from seeds, clippings, and bulbs.

Farm Manager/Product Manager Intern

Hana Farms
11.2013 - 03.2014

● Standardized production procedures, job roles, and quality assurance guidelines in the realm of farm-to-table food and body products, including developing recipes and food handling.
● Hired, trained and supervised seasonal workers engaged in cultivation and harvest, as well as trained new staff on food preparation and safety procedures.
● Supervised intern crew of 5 or more on land reclamation projects, landscaping design and installation, and sustainable gardening methods.
● Established relationships with farm members and interns involved in landscaping process through strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
● Communicated crew performance concerns to upper-management with recommendations for corrective action.
● Worked closely with interns to improve practices, techniques and safety choices, optimizing performance, and minimizing waste.
● Planned and supervised landscape activities while staying within budgeted hours and maintaining safe work environment out in field for crew members.
● Set manageable daily and weekly landscaping goals.
● Planned, organized and communicated production goals with crew members, property owners, contractors and customers.
● Utilized creative design techniques to maximize aesthetic appeal of landscaping projects.
● Managed and coordinated installation of complex landscaping projects.
● Researched and identified appropriate plants and materials for landscaping projects.
● Maximized production by closely inspecting crops, assessing quality, and identifying problems such as disease or insects.
● Used skills to propagate new plants from seeds and clippings.
● Prepared raw materials for cooking/production by harvesting or wildcrafting.
● Operation and hosting at roadside farm pizza stand.
● Preparation of all menu items using manual or electric appliances to clean, peel, slice and trim foods.
● Followed food safety and sanitation guidelines to prevent food-borne illnesses and promote customer health and safety.
● Handled cash register operations, processing cash and credit card payments.
● Tracked inventory of ingredients and supplies to keep kitchen well stocked and meet product and service demands.
● Assisted in setting up and breaking down kitchen stations.
● Pushed, pulled and transported large loads and objects.

Barista Shift Lead

Blue Star Coffee Roasters
02.2013 - 11.2013

● Created superlative coffeehouse experience through customer service, beverage preparation, presentation, and in-store marketing.
● Development of specialty drink recipes, use of latte art, and merchandising, to drive sales.
● Learned every menu item's preparation and numerous off-label drinks to meet customer needs.
● Pleasantly interacted with customers during hectic periods to promote fun, positive environment.
● Handled and resolved customer issues and complaints with professionalism and tact to drive customer satisfaction and repeat business.
● Trained and supervised barista workers to maintain and uphold store policies and optimize staffing patterns.
● Repaired minor issues and maintained espresso equipment and coffee machines for smooth functioning.
● Monitored supply levels at counter and maintained customer areas to meet typical demands.
● Maintained accurate inventory counts and packaging materials to meet customer demands and sustain operations.
● Recommended products based on solid understanding of individual customer needs and preferences.
● Sanitized equipment and wiped down counters and tables to prevent spread of germs.
● Explained beverage preparation and offered samples to help customers choose ideal items.
● Serving customers quickly and efficiently and created strategies to prevent delays.
● Presented process improvement ideas to leadership team to cultivate professional, friendly and efficient work environment.

Owner/Operator

Garden Grove Organics
01.2010 - 10.2013

● Owner and operator of two acre organic farm and CSA, providing high quality organic produce to local businesses and homes.
● Preparation of 2 acres of raw land using small and large machinery.
● Established foundational processes for business operations.
● Used skills to grow new plants from seeds and clippings.
● Researched pests and diseases common to individual types of stock and developed mitigation plans.
● Utilized chemical and non-chemical methods to protect crops from weeds and pests.
● Selected and purchased supplies and equipment such as seed, farm machinery, and farm animals (goats, rabbits, chickens, ducks).
● Visited fields regularly to inspect and estimate maturity dates of crops and damage due to weather and identify problems such as disease or insects.
● Monitored weather conditions and adjusted irrigation and crop schedules accordingly.
● Trained and supervised farmhands in proper use of farm equipment, safety protocols, harvest schedule and weeding.
● Managed day-to-day business operations including customer communications, inventory counts, harvest, deliveries, and production of value-added food products.
● Set up and managed plant irrigation systems to maintain optimal flows to different types of plants.
● Monitored market conditions to set accurate product pricing and take advantage of emerging trends.
● Attended farmers markets and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
● Negotiated and secured contracts with customers and business accounts.
● Consulted with horticultural experts to assess operational strengths and weaknesses and plan enhancements to meet changing demands.
● Maintained tidy, clean and well-organized greenhouse for optimal productivity and professionalism.
● Coordinated inventories of seeds, chemicals, plant nutrients and tools.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Social Science

Portland State University
06.2023

Skills

  • Product Recommendations
  • POS System Operations
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Merchandising Proficiency
  • Sales Expertise
  • Retail Store Operations
  • Excellent People Skills
  • Verbal and Written Communication
  • Managing Operations and Efficiency
  • Organizational Systems
  • Team Mentoring
  • Pesticide Application
  • Crop Cultivation
  • Gardening Expertise
  • Animal Husbandry

Accomplishments

  • Graduate @ Portland State University; BS in Social Sciences emphasizing multidisciplinary studies (coursework includes: social work/human services, psychology, trauma-informed mental health, human development, drug and alcohol addiction, counseling/peer-support)
  • Business Development - Contributed to the launching of 2 separate coffee roasting companies, (Blue Star Coffee Roasters, -Twisp, WA and Holsem Coffee, -San Diego, CA) through the development of employee policies and training procedures
  • Hired as, or promoted to supervisory roles in multiple positions by demonstrating the capacity for leadership.

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Quote

It is never too late to be what you might have been.
George Eliot

Timeline

Sales Associate

Loen Nursery
08.2021 - 05.2022

Garden Center Associate

Fred Meyer
01.2020 - 08.2020

Shift Supervisor

CVS Health
10.2019 - 02.2020

Cashier/Collective Manager

Alberta Cooperative Grocery
12.2018 - 09.2019

Sales Associate

Birkenstock
02.2018 - 09.2018

Cashier/Wellness Advisor Sales Associate

Alive And Well Natural Foods
02.2018 - 09.2018

Housekeeping Attendant

Paia Inn Hotel
03.2017 - 01.2018

Freelance Landscaper

Private Contract/Bill Mollison
09.2016 - 09.2017

School Garden Coordinator

Hawaii Department Of Education
08.2016 - 03.2017

Farm Manager/Intern Trainer

Coconut Glens Farm And Roadside Ice Cream Stand
03.2014 - 06.2014

Farm Manager/Product Manager Intern

Hana Farms
11.2013 - 03.2014

Barista Shift Lead

Blue Star Coffee Roasters
02.2013 - 11.2013

Owner/Operator

Garden Grove Organics
01.2010 - 10.2013

Bachelor of Science - Social Science

Portland State University
Ashley HeinkelHorticultural Educator