Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Accomplishments
Timeline
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DARREN GRAVES

Richmond,VA

Summary

Innovative and driven entrepreneur with a diverse background in photography, photojournalism, podcasting, security, leadership roles, and real estate property management. Adept at combining creative and managerial skills to lead projects and teams effectively. Strong track record of building and maintaining a loyal audience across various platforms, with a commitment to delivering high-quality work in every endeavor.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Photographer

Nomadic Studios - Owner
12.2023 - Current
  • Developed a successful photography and photojournalism business, capturing compelling images for over 30 clients.
  • Created and curated a portfolio showcasing artistic and journalistic work, leading to a growing client base and recognition within the industry.
  • Built and engaged an online community through consistent content creation and social media presence.
  • Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
  • Collaborated with clients to understand their vision, ensuring the final product met or exceeded expectations.

Food Delivery Driver

DOORDASH
08.2020 - Current

Planned optimal routes to deliver multiple orders for over 3000 trips and achieved strong performance ratings.

  • Verified orders prior to completing deliveries to avoid customer complaints.
  • Kept delivery vehicle clean and neat to maintain company's professional reputation.
  • Served customers promptly by smoothly collecting and delivering a high volume of orders.
  • Developed and maintained professional relations between customer, store personnel and company.
  • Logged hours, mileage and order-related activities with company's app to maintain detailed records.

Podcast Host

The Garage 804
12.2023 - 07.2024
  • Produced and hosted over 1,000 hours of podcast content across several shows, covering topics related to entrepreneurship, creativity, and industry insights.
  • Grew a dedicated following of over 1,000 listeners by delivering valuable and engaging content regularly.
  • Managed some aspects of podcast production, including guest coordination, marketing, as well as filming and curating topics for episodes
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with guests for compelling interviews and conversations.
  • Curated diverse perspectives through guest selection fostering inclusive discussions.
  • Developed an authentic voice as a host that resonated with listeners while balancing professionalism and relatability.

Event Coordinator

The Garage 804
01.2024 - 07.2024
  • Coordinated schedules and timelines for 20 plus events over 7 months.
  • Adapted quickly when faced with unexpected challenges or changes in plans, maintaining composure while finding effective solutions.
  • Managed event logistics and operations.
  • Handled crisis management situations promptly, minimizing negative impact on event outcomes and client satisfaction.
  • Developed creative marketing materials that generated interest and boosted event attendance.
  • Conducted post-event analysis, identifying areas of improvement for future events.
  • Evaluated feedback from attendees after each function, utilizing insights gained to inform improvements in subsequent endeavors.

Milieu Manger

New Seasons
04.2023 - 11.2023
  • Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
  • Maintained professional, organized, and safe environment for employees and patrons.
  • Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
  • Handles admissions of new patients
  • Access Control of Building
  • Answer Phones , and leads clients to respective counselors
  • Create Reports and absentee notes and Detail reason why
  • Achieved departmental goals by developing and executing strategic plans and performance metrics.
  • Increased team productivity by implementing streamlined processes and effective communication strategies.

Armed Security Officer

JL Security
12.2022 - 04.2023
  • Responded quickly to incidents and assessed active situations for security concerns.
  • Checked personnel ID badges and issued temporary credentials to visitors.
  • Completed full building and grounds patrols every to spot and investigate concerns.
  • Reduced vandalism and criminal activity by keeping close eye on premises through personal checks and CCTV monitoring.
  • Operated communication equipment to maintain contact with other security personnel during emergency calls.
  • Investigated suspicious activities and persons to maintain security of premises.
  • Responded quickly to emergency situations to assess and deflect issues.

Education

High School Diploma -

Wakefield High School
Arlington, VA
08.2014

Skills

  • Crisis Management
  • Social Media Marketing
  • Event Marketing
  • Special events planning
  • Guest Relations
  • Time Management
  • Photo editing
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Video Editing
  • Creative artistic vision
  • Visual storytelling
  • Creative vision
  • Collaboration and Teamwork
  • Content Development
  • Audience Engagement
  • Brand building
  • Excellent communication abilities
  • Teamwork and Collaboration

Certification

DCJS ARMED SECURITY LINCENSE


VA REAL ESTATE

- Icon Reality

- Assistant Property Manager for Dobrin Property management

Accomplishments

I started an Community Outreach Program OtherThanPerfectllc ( OTP) to raise awareness for youth/ adult homelessness, Drug addiction and Mental Heath est 2019

Timeline

Event Coordinator

The Garage 804
01.2024 - 07.2024

Photographer

Nomadic Studios - Owner
12.2023 - Current

Podcast Host

The Garage 804
12.2023 - 07.2024

Milieu Manger

New Seasons
04.2023 - 11.2023

Armed Security Officer

JL Security
12.2022 - 04.2023

Food Delivery Driver

DOORDASH
08.2020 - Current

High School Diploma -

Wakefield High School

DCJS ARMED SECURITY LINCENSE


VA REAL ESTATE

- Icon Reality

- Assistant Property Manager for Dobrin Property management

DARREN GRAVES