Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Certification
Affiliations
Timeline
ed
Elijah Cotton

Elijah Cotton

Burlington,North Carolina

Summary

Versatile professional with expertise in operations management, sales, and financial planning, and a proven ability to lead teams and drive results. Skilled in streamlining processes, managing high-value transactions, and fostering strong client relationships to achieve organizational goals. Adept at adapting to dynamic environments, managing complex projects, and implementing scalable systems for long-term success. Known for a hands-on leadership style, strategic decision-making, and a focus on continuous improvement.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Founder & Operations Manager

Blue Trust REI
04.2022 - Current
  • Founded and formally incorporated Blue Trust REI, specializing in distressed property acquisition, redevelopment, and investment opportunities.
  • Designed and implemented scalable business systems to streamline acquisitions, financial planning, and operational workflows.
  • Built a professional network of investors, contractors, and industry professionals to support sustainable business growth.
  • Managed marketing campaigns to attract motivated sellers and buyers, leveraging data-driven strategies to identify profitable opportunities.
  • Collaborated with legal and accounting professionals to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local real estate regulations.
  • Focused on expanding market presence while maintaining a client-first approach to delivering high-quality investment solutions.

Insurance Agency Owner

Allstate Corp
01.2022 - 06.2023
  • Successfully launched and managed a high-performing Allstate agency, earning a 5-star customer satisfaction rating within the first year.
  • Oversaw the end-to-end insurance claims process, ensuring timely resolutions and positive outcomes for clients.
  • Built strategic partnerships with financial service providers to deliver tailored, comprehensive insurance and financial solutions.
  • Delivered exceptional client consultations, identifying needs and closing high-value policies, contributing to agency growth.
  • Maintained full compliance with federal/state regulations and company policies, while optimizing daily operations for efficiency and profitability.

Luxury Automotive Sales Specialist

Volkswagen
08.2020 - 01.2022
  • Sold high-value Volkswagen vehicles ranging from $34,000 to over $120,000, delivering personalized and professional sales experiences tailored to client needs.
  • Consistently increased monthly sales performance by identifying client priorities, recommending premium add-ons, and closing high-ticket transactions.
  • Built trust and long-term relationships through exceptional service, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Partnered with top-performing sales mentors to enhance negotiation skills and develop client-focused sales strategies.
  • Recognized for driving increasing sales volume and maintaining high customer satisfaction within a competitive, high-performing team.

Property Operations Specialist

Blue Trust REI (Independent Operations)
10.2016 - 03.2023
  • Managed daily operations of a residential investment property, including budgeting for maintenance, utilities, and overhead expenses.
  • Oversaw property maintenance and repairs, gaining hands-on experience in general upkeep, plumbing, and small renovations.
  • Handled tenant relations, including screening and coordinating multiple tenants, while fostering a cooperative and respectful living environment.
  • Developed expertise in property management and real estate investment strategies, laying the foundation for the formal launch of Blue Trust REI.
  • Ensured positive cash flow by effectively budgeting for mortgage payments, utilities, and operational expenses.

Assistant Director of Operations

Chick-fil-A
11.2014 - 07.2020
  • Implemented cost-saving measures, reducing operational expenses while maintaining high service quality and customer satisfaction.
  • Led and managed a team of over 25 employees, fostering a culture of accountability and consistently meeting company performance standards.
  • Coordinated facility maintenance schedules, ensuring minimal disruption to daily operations and peak-hour efficiency.
  • Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing waste and ensuring adequate stock levels to support seamless operations.
  • Optimized staff scheduling based on customer traffic patterns and employee strengths, improving efficiency and service delivery during high-demand periods.

Education

Associate of Science - Business Administration

North Carolina A&T State University
Greensboro, NC
06-2015

High School Diploma -

Early/Middle College At GTCC-Jamestown
Jamestown, NC
06-2014

Skills

  • Strategic planning
  • Visionary leadership
  • Team leadership
  • Client engagement
  • Contract negotiation
  • Customer acquisition
  • Ethics and integrity
  • Strategic thinking

Accomplishments

  • Achieved a 5-star customer satisfaction rating for Elijah Cotton's Allstate Agency within the first year, reflecting exceptional client service and operational excellence.
  • Closed high-value vehicle sales, with the highest transaction reaching $120,000, consistently exceeding monthly sales targets through tailored consultations and rapport-building.
  • Launched and scaled Blue Trust REI, specializing in distressed property acquisitions, and built a sustainable business model focused on operational efficiency and long-term growth.
  • Oversaw operations of a $5M annual revenue Chick-fil-A business, managing a team of 25+ employees across multiple roles and ensuring seamless daily operations in both front-of-house and back-of-house environments.
  • Streamlined team collaboration and operational workflows at Chick-fil-A, driving measurable improvements in efficiency, employee performance, and customer satisfaction.

Certification

  • Insurance Producer License – North Carolina
    License Type: Insurance Producer | Lines of Authority: Personal Lines
    License Number: 20306470 | Active: 2022 – Present
  • Insurance Producer License – Virginia
    License Type: Insurance Producer | Lines of Authority: Personal Lines
    License Number: 1318553| Active: 2022 – Present


  • National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Certificate of Achievement
    Certified to sell and service flood insurance policies under the NFIP regulatory framework.
    Completed through North Carolina Department of Insurance | 2024


Affiliations

  • Member, Burlington Chamber of Commerce 2022-2023

Timeline

Founder & Operations Manager

Blue Trust REI
04.2022 - Current

Insurance Agency Owner

Allstate Corp
01.2022 - 06.2023

Luxury Automotive Sales Specialist

Volkswagen
08.2020 - 01.2022

Property Operations Specialist

Blue Trust REI (Independent Operations)
10.2016 - 03.2023

Assistant Director of Operations

Chick-fil-A
11.2014 - 07.2020

Associate of Science - Business Administration

North Carolina A&T State University

High School Diploma -

Early/Middle College At GTCC-Jamestown

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Elijah Cotton