Cynthia Keefe
Virginia Beach
Summary
Dynamic sales professional with a proven track record at both Sysco and Bunzl Distribution, excelling in consultative selling and client relationship management. Skilled in visual display creation and effective presentations, I drive growth through strategic planning and a comprehensive understanding of market trends and effective solutions, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Produce Specialist
SYSCO Food Services
Hampton Roads, VA
08.2022 - Current
- Assisted in product assortment management, trends and training sales team on key product categories.
- Responsible for organization and creation of produce displays for sales meetings and food shows.
- Learned proper handling techniques to ensure freshness and quality of products.
- Continuing elevation of product knowledge through external training and self education.
- Worked with suppliers and brokers to effectively market, sample and sell products to increase sales and provide solutions for end users.
- Engaged with customers to provide information on produce selection. storage, yield, best application, market conditions, supply and seasonality challenges.
- Consultative efforts and presentation of higher-margin specialty and value added products by showing operational efficiencies and profitability.
- Increased produce category sales year over year through engagement with sales teams and building customer relationships and confidence.
Sales Professional
Bunzl Distribution NA
Richmond, VA
03.2020 - 08.2022
- Developed and maintained diverse client base within the non foods, packaging and disposables redistribution market segment, using consultative selling, knowledge of evolving changes in the marketplace and customized programs.
- Built relationships with customers and supplier to promote long term business growth.
- Utilized CRM software to track sales activities, manage pricing, and maintain client records and reporting.
- Analyzed sales data to adjust strategies and improve overall performance efficiency.
- Built strong relationships with customers through personalized service, enhancing client loyalty through creative solutions, issue resolution and anticipating future needs.
- Developed strategic sales plans for driving growth in key market segments, resulting in significant business expansion.
Brand Ambassador
Ultimate Creations
Remote
12.2017 - 03.2020
- Developed and executed promotional strategies to enhance brand visibility and engagement.
- Coordinated event logistics with manufacturer and venue to ensure proper inventory level, booth visibility and staffing.
- Enhanced brand recognition and representation of branc by executing promotional events and engaging customers with product demonstrations, using consistent messaging, visuals and marketing materials.
- Increased brand awareness and loyalty at product and trade shows through expert knowledge of products, engaging booth design, consistent messaging and marketing materials, and compelling interactions with attendees,
- Implemented referral program that incentivized word-of-mouth promotion, expanding customer base.
- Maintained accurate records of product inventory, customer interactions and completed direct sales.
Sales Professional /Purchasing Manager Trainee
Bunzl Distribution NA
Baltimore, MD
04.2007 - 12.2017
- Analyzed market trends to identify new sales opportunities and improve strategic positioning to both existing customer base and prospective clients.
- Developed and maintained strong client relationships to enhance customer satisfaction and retention through consultative selling, prompt resolution of issues and creative solutions.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline sales processes and improve operational efficiency for procurement processes.
- Negotiated supplier contracts to secure favorable terms and pricing.
- Optimized inventory levels by implementing demand forecasting techniques and just-in-time purchasing strategies.
Food and Beverage
Various
East Coastl/Mid Atlantic
05.1998 - 04.2007
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked in diverse food and beverage operations in varied positions and roles, including management and culinary.
Education
High School Diploma -
Gates Chili Senior High School
Rochester01-1983
Skills
- Comprehensive understanding of products
- Visual display creation and marketing
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Clear interpersonal communication
- Responsive to new challenges
- Organizational skills and critical thinking
- Effective presentation and instructional ability
Timeline
Produce Specialist
SYSCO Food Services
08.2022 - Current
Sales Professional
Bunzl Distribution NA
03.2020 - 08.2022
Brand Ambassador
Ultimate Creations
12.2017 - 03.2020
Sales Professional /Purchasing Manager Trainee
Bunzl Distribution NA
04.2007 - 12.2017
Food and Beverage
Various
05.1998 - 04.2007
High School Diploma -
Gates Chili Senior High School