Christopher Zimerla
Parma
Summary
Results-driven retail leadership professional with nearly three years of management experience and a strong background in operations, fulfillment, inventory, and customer service within a high-volume retail environment at Target. Currently pursuing a degree in Operations & Supply Chain Management at Cleveland State University, with experience leading cross-functional teams, improving workflow execution, and supporting operational efficiency. Recognized for adaptability, problem solving, and strong communication skills in fast-paced environments.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Closing Team Leader
Target
Parma, OH
08.2024 - Current
- Led closing operations for a high-volume retail store, ensuring nightly workload completion, operational standards, and readiness for next-day business operations.
- Coordinated and delegated workload across multiple departments including fulfillment, general merchandise, front-end operations, and guest service to maintain efficiency during high-demand periods.
- Helped improve team productivity and workflow execution through active coaching, communication, and real-time problem solving.
- Trained and developed new team members in operational procedures, customer service expectations, and department-specific processes.
- Supported fulfillment and inventory operations by assisting teams in meeting workload deadlines and maintaining accuracy standards.
- Maintained operational organization and store presentation standards while balancing staffing limitations and shifting business priorities.
- Assisted in resolving guest concerns and operational challenges in a fast-paced retail environment while maintaining positive customer experiences.
- Collaborated with executive leadership and peer leaders to prioritize nightly business needs and improve overall store execution.
- Recognized for flexibility and cross-functional operational knowledge through experience in fulfillment, inbound logistics, merchandising, front-end operations, and guest service.
- Promoted a team-focused work environment by supporting employee development, accountability, and communication across departments.
Team Member
Target
Parma, OH
11.2020 - 08.2024
- Worked across multiple operational areas including fulfillment, inbound logistics, general merchandise, checkout operations, and guest service.
- Supported daily store operations by completing workload tasks efficiently while maintaining company performance and presentation standards.
- Assisted with inbound freight processing, inventory replenishment, merchandising, and backroom organization in a fast-paced retail environment.
- Contributed to fulfillment operations by accurately picking and preparing customer orders while meeting productivity and timing expectations.
- Delivered strong customer service by assisting guests with product questions, issue resolution, and checkout support.
- Developed broad cross-functional experience through training and support across multiple store departments and operational workflows.
- Maintained flexibility in adapting to changing business needs, staffing priorities, and high-volume periods.
- Collaborated with team members and leadership to support workload completion and overall store efficiency.
- Demonstrated reliability and strong time management while balancing operational responsibilities across different work centers.
- Assisted in maintaining a safe, organized, and customer-focused store environment.
Education
BBA - Operations Management
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH05-2028
High School Diploma -
Padua Franciscan High School
Parma, OH05-2020
Skills
- Team Leadership
- Operations Management
- Customer Service
- Inventory Management
- Fulfillment Operations
- Employee Training & Development
- Workload Prioritization
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Problem Solving
- KPI & Performance Monitoring
- Safety & Compliance Awareness
- Microsoft Excel
- Data Analysis
- Time Management
Accomplishments
- Contributed to store operational improvements that resulted in the location achieving “green store” performance status in 2025.
- Helped drive guest experience metrics to record-high performance levels through leadership support, team coordination, and operational execution.
- Recognized by store leadership and business partners for strong departmental performance, workload execution, and team support.
- Supported improvements in store performance metrics by maintaining operational standards, accountability, and efficient nightly execution.
- Played a key role in improving guest satisfaction and overall store execution within a fast-paced retail environment.
- Assisted in creating a high-performing team environment through coaching, communication, and cross-functional operational support.
Certification
- Food Safety Certification (State of Ohio)
- WAV and Crown equipment trained
- Safety and operational compliance experience
Timeline
Closing Team Leader
Target
08.2024 - Current
Team Member
Target
11.2020 - 08.2024
BBA - Operations Management
Cleveland State University
High School Diploma -
Padua Franciscan High School