Christopher Benitez
Fredericksburg,VA
Summary
Business professional with history of driving business growth through strategic initiatives and client engagement. Adept at fostering team collaboration and delivering results in dynamic environments. Known for strong negotiation skills and adaptability to changing market conditions.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Business Development Specialist
Cochrane USA
11.2025 - Current
- Developed and executed strategic partnerships to expand market reach and enhance brand visibility.
- Conducted market research to identify opportunities for growth and inform business strategies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline communication and improve project outcomes.
- Analyzed sales data to drive decision-making and optimize sales strategies for increased revenue.
Civil Affairs Specialist
U.S Army Reserve (450th CA BN [A])
05.2024 - Current
- (Training) Coordinated community engagement initiatives to enhance civil-military relations.
- (Training) Facilitated communication between military units and civilian agencies during operations.
- (Training) Conducted assessments of local needs to inform mission planning and resource allocation.
- (Training) Facilitated the resolution of local conflicts between military forces and civilian populations.
- (Training) Assessed political dynamics within host nations to inform decisions related to civil-military operations.
FOH Host
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
03.2025 - 11.2025
- Managed reservations and seating arrangements efficiently to optimize flow.
- Trained new hosts on operational standards and customer service protocols.
- Collaborated with management to implement improvements in guest seating processes.
- Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times.
FOH Trainer
Sedona Taphouse
02.2023 - 03.2025
- Developed training materials to enhance onboarding processes for host team members.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations to identify areas for improvement among hosts.
- Facilitated ongoing training sessions to keep staff updated on menu changes and service techniques.
- Mentored new hires through comprehensive onboarding processes, resulting in well-prepared team members.
- Demonstrated strong multi-tasking abilities while remaining calm under pressure, contributing to a positive work environment.
Brand Ambassador
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc
10.2022 - 02.2023
- Assisted in organizing promotional events to enhance brand visibility.
- Promoted positive company image through superior customer service experiences.
- Introduced sales, promotions, and other brand initiatives to gain customer loyalty.
- Developed knowledge of current fashion trends to advise customers effectively.
FOH Trainer
Chick-fil-A
12.2020 - 10.2022
- Trained front-of-house staff on menu knowledge and customer service standards.
- Implemented training sessions focused on upselling techniques and product pairing.
- Streamlined onboarding processes for new hires, resulting in a more efficient and effective training experience.
- Improved team morale and communication through regular feedback sessions and collaborative problem-solving activities.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
University of Mary Washington
Fredericksburg, VA05-2025
Associate of Science - General Studies
Bluefield University
Bluefield, VA05-2022
High School Diploma -
Homeschool
Fredericksburg, VA05-2022
Skills
- Business analysis
- New business opportunities
- CRM management
- Relationship management
- Cross-functional team leadership
- Staff training
- Market research
- Problem-solving abilities
Certification
Active- Secret Security Clearance via DOW
Timeline
Business Development Specialist
Cochrane USA
11.2025 - Current
FOH Host
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
03.2025 - 11.2025
Civil Affairs Specialist
U.S Army Reserve (450th CA BN [A])
05.2024 - Current
FOH Trainer
Sedona Taphouse
02.2023 - 03.2025
Brand Ambassador
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc
10.2022 - 02.2023
FOH Trainer
Chick-fil-A
12.2020 - 10.2022
Associate of Science - General Studies
Bluefield University
High School Diploma -
Homeschool
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
University of Mary Washington
References
References available upon request.