Hi, I’m
Darryl Blair
Manager
Mesa,AZ
The real test is not whether you avoid this failure, because you won’t. It’s whether you let it harden or shame you into inaction, or whether you learn from it; whether you choose to persevere.
Barack Obama
Summary
Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to decrease costs and promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success.
Overview
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Popeyes® Louisana Kitchen
Shift Supervisor
03.2017 - 07.2018
Job overview
- Trained new employees and delegated daily tasks and responsibilities.
- Completed store opening and closing procedures and balanced tills.
- Resolved customer complaints and issues and offered thoughtful solutions to maintain customer satisfaction.
- Responded to and resolved customer questions and concerns.
- Helped store management meet standards of service and quality in daily operations.
- Enforced company policies and regulations with employees.
- Maintained clean and well-organized production areas to avoid violations or unnecessary work delays due to hazards or inefficient layouts.
- Established effective employee schedules and delegated tasks to take advantage of individual abilities and meet expected demands.
- Conducted routine inspections to check quality and compliance with established specifications.
- Conducted shift inspections to evaluate operational activities and implement timely resolutions for diverse concerns.
- Applied security, safety and loss prevention strategies during shifts.
- Built performance-oriented culture with satisfied, hardworking employees by clearly highlighting employee success and developing leaders from within.
- Managed shift operations, supplied resources and monitored team performance to keep business profitable and running smoothly.
- Completed cash and credit card transactions accurately using POS software.
- Managed inventory and ordered supplies to keep location well stocked with necessary supplies.
- Resolved conflicts between employees to maintain positive and productive work environments.
- Conducted performance reviews and provided staff with feedback and guidance.
- Analyzed sales figures and identified areas for improvement.
- Developed and implemented new processes and procedures to streamline operations.
Popeyes® Louisana Kitchen
Cook
03.2015 - 07.2018
Job overview
- Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
- Checked for quality, kept track of old and new items and rotated stock to confirm freshness of food and ingredients.
- Managed time by organizing and prioritizing kitchen duties to prepare and serve food quickly.
- Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
- Seasoned and cooked food according to recipes or personal judgment and experience.
- Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
- Took food orders from cashiers and cooked items quickly to complete order items together and serve hot.
- Communicated closely with servers to fully understand special orders for customers.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Maintained food safety and sanitation standards.
- Kept kitchen clean and organized by performing daily maintenance tasks.
- Followed strict standards for food handling and safety, minimizing risks to customers.
- Restocked inventory and ingredient items to maintain optimal kitchen efficiency.
- Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
- Coordinated checklists to keep kitchen clean, stocked and sanitary.
- Worked closely with kitchen team to meet high demand with delicious, on-recipe foods.
Trinity Food ServicesEloy, AZ
Cook Shift Leader
10.2022 - 06.2023
Job overview
- Inspected kitchens to observe food preparation quality and service, food appearance, and cleanliness of production and service areas.
- Initiated training for new team members on culinary techniques to improve productivity and increase kitchen workflows.
- Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
- Collaborated with staff members to create meals for large banquets.
- Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Modernized work processes to reduce guest wait times and boost daily output.
- Obtained fresh, local ingredients to improve dish flavors and limit grocery costs.
- Planned promotional menu additions based on seasonal pricing and product availability.
- Maintained food safety and sanitation standards.
Arizona Department of CorrectionsBuckeye, AZ
Clerk/Educator
04.2021 - 09.2022
Job overview
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
- Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts.
Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen
Assistant General Manager
07.2018 - 03.2019
Job overview
- Handled cash accurately and prepared deposits.
- Motivated, trained, and disciplined employees to maximize performance.
- Resolved problems promptly to elevate customer approval.
- Managed team schedule with eye for coverage needs and individual strengths.
- Mentored and motivated team members to achieve challenging business goals.
- Oversaw inventory by ordering precise quantities of stock and executing corrective actions to drive profitability.
- Maintained well-controlled business inventory with minimal losses by enforcing solid monitoring and management structures.
- Analyzed customer feedback data to identify areas of improvement and develop solutions.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures to improve customer service and satisfaction.
- Trained new employees on proper protocols and customer service standards.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
- Monitored daily cash discrepancies, inventory shrinkage and drive-off.
- Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
- Observed each employee's individual strengths and initiated mentoring program to improve areas of weakness.
AKDY Imports
Warehouse Unloader
09.2016 - 12.2016
Job overview
- Loaded bulk and route delivery trucks with warehouse goods.
- Built safe and balanced loads for deliveries with no shifting or damages.
- Pulled order materials according to pick tickets and delivery schedules.
- Kept warehouse clean with daily cleaning, organizing and sanitizing of high-touch surfaces.
- Operated forklift to move pallets and heavy items on and off vehicles.
- Prevented spoilage by rotating warehouse products with new shipments.
- Verified orders from shipping and receiving documentation to complete accurate transfers.
- Maintained clean, orderly work environment free of hazards.
McGuire Research ServicesLas Vegas, NV
Telephone Customer Service Representative
09.2007 - 05.2009
Job overview
- Actively listened to customers, handled concerns quickly and escalated major issues to supervisor.
- Responded to customer calls and emails to answer questions about products and services.
- Adhered to company policies and scripts to consistently achieve call-time and quality standards.
- Attended telephone skills and program information training sessions to boost aptitude.
- Placed outbound customer service or customer satisfaction calls to follow up on issues.
- Sought out extra training opportunities to enhance customer relationship management abilities.
- Generated customer service reports to track customer satisfaction.
- Documented and detailed calls and complaints using call center's CRM database.
- Met customer call guidelines for service levels, handle time and productivity.
- Exhibited high energy and professionalism when dealing with clients and staff.
- Promoted superior experience by addressing customer concerns, demonstrating empathy, and resolving problems swiftly.
- Developed highly empathetic client relationships and earned reputation for exceeding service standard goals.
- Enhanced productivity levels by anticipating needs and delivering outstanding support.
- Delivered exceptional customer service to every customer by leveraging extensive knowledge of products and services and creating welcoming, positive experiences.
- Delivered prompt service to prioritize customer needs.
- Responded to customer requests, offering excellent support and tailored recommendations to address needs.
Goodwill of Southern NevadaLas Vegas, NV
Cashier
02.2005 - 04.2006
Job overview
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
- Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
- Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
- Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
- Counted money in cash drawers at beginning and end of shifts to maintain accuracy.
- Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required.
- Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
- Answered questions about store policies and addressed customer concerns.
- Worked closely with shift manager to solve problems and handle customer concerns.
- Addressed customer needs and made product recommendations to increase sales.
- Tallied cash drawer at beginning and end of each work shift.
- Upsold additional products and services to customers, increasing revenue.
- Performed cash, card and check transactions to complete customer purchases.
- Operated cash register to record transactions accurately and efficiently.
- Handled cash with high accuracy and took care to check bills for fraud.
- Used POS system to enter orders, process payments and issue receipts.
- Learned duties for various positions and provided backup at key times.
- Worked with floor team and managers to meet wide range of customer needs.
- Responded promptly to requests for assistance, spills and customer inquiries.
- Maintained current knowledge of store promotions and highlighted sales to customers.
- Processed refunds and exchanges in accordance with company policy.
- Reconciled cash drawer at start and end of each shift, accounting for errors, and resolving discrepancies.
- Encouraged customers to make additional purchases by highlighting current deals and keeping lane well-stocked.
- Checked personal identifications during alcohol and tobacco sales.
- Kept cash wrap stocked, products faced and shelving free of misplaced items or trash.
- Set up new sales displays each week with fresh merchandise.
- Conducted inventory counts by adding each item in stock and documenting in computer system.
- Monitored self-checkout systems and provided help in resolving complex problems.
- Demonstrated product features, answered questions and redirected objections to highlight positive aspects.
- Helped customers navigate applications and in-store technology to deliver best-in-class experiences.
- Identified and resolved discrepancies and errors in customer accounts.
- Lifted up to 50 pounds at once and used forklift to move heavier loads.
Ethel M Chocolate FactoryLas Vegas, NV
Forklift Handler
06.2005 - 01.2006
Job overview
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Cultivated interpersonal skills by building positive relationships with others.
- Identified issues, analyzed information and provided solutions to problems.
J2 Janitorial Las Vegas, NV
Janitorial Worker
03.2005 - 05.2005
Job overview
- Kept building spaces premises clean inside and outside.
- Sanitized break area kitchen counters, tables and sinks.
- Removed spots from glass doors, mirrors and windows by spraying cleaner and wiping.
- Inspected facility and grounds and picked up trash or other debris impacting appearance or movement flows between spaces.
- Damp-mopped hard floors to clean and remove residue or spillage.
- Swept hard surface floors using broom or push broom dust mop.
- Maintained clean and comfortable environments in commercial buildings by vacuuming, cleaning windows, and dusting.
- Dusted surfaces, ledges, fixtures and furniture.
- Mixed, used, and properly stored hazardous chemical cleaners to reduce risk of injury or illness.
- Cleaned and sanitized drinking fountains.
- Deep cleaned or replaced flooring, performing stripping, sealing and finishing tasks.
- Reported vandalism or other damage to property to supervisor.
- Reported damages and hazardous conditions to management for further action.
- Moved furniture for cleaning and set up for special events.
- Cleaned equipment and machinery to maintain in optimum working condition.
- Checked in and stocked inventory throughout facility.
- Followed safety protocols and safe use of protective gear to prevent injury to self and others.
- Handled spills, accidents and other cleaning emergencies to maintain cleanliness standards throughout assigned shift.
- Replaced and refilled paper towel and toilet paper dispensers for users convenience.
- Emptied trash cans and recycling bins to keep building clean and free of germs.
- Polished stainless steel fixtures and furniture details.
- Hand-cleaned telephones, door knobs and remote controls.
- Ran variety of cleaning machines such as floor machines designed to strip, wax, extract, and top scrub floors and carpets.
Popeyes® Louisana KitchenMesa, AZ
Shift Manager
01.2024 - Current
Job overview
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
- Cleaned and sanitized bathrooms, kitchens and other similar areas according to established protocols.
- Enhanced workplace cleanliness by performing thorough daily cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, and dusting.
- Ensured food safety standards were met by properly storing and handling raw chicken products.
- Improved customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality, well-cooked chicken dishes.
Education
Maricopa Community Colleges - Rio Salado Community CollegeTempe, AZ
Associate of Applied Science
06.2025
University Overview
- PHI THETA KAPPA Member
- 3.8 GPA
Skills
- Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)
- Waste Management and Reduction
- POS Inventory System Operation
- Loss Prevention Strategies
- Google Drive
- Budget Controls
- Hiring and Onboarding
- Restocking Processes
- Sales Forecasting
- Customer Retention
- Content Workflow
- Cash Register Operations
- Closing Tactics and Contract Negotiations
- Team Leadership Expertise
- Training and Development
- Cost Control
- Menu Development
- Staff Hiring
- Promotional Planning
- Equipment Preparation
- Performance Improvement
- Catering Services
- Counting Money
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Front of House Management
- Supply Ordering and Management
- Cost Estimation
- POS Terminal Operation
- Delegating Assignments and Tasks
- Managing Reservations and Large Parties
- Staffing and Sales Reporting
- Labor and Overhead Cost Estimation
- Equipment Maintenance
Availability
See my work availability
Not Available
Available
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
Shift Manager
Popeyes® Louisana Kitchen
01.2024 - Current
Cook Shift Leader
Trinity Food Services
10.2022 - 06.2023
Clerk/Educator
Arizona Department of Corrections
04.2021 - 09.2022
Assistant General Manager
Popeyes® Louisiana Kitchen
07.2018 - 03.2019
Shift Supervisor
Popeyes® Louisana Kitchen
03.2017 - 07.2018
Warehouse Unloader
AKDY Imports
09.2016 - 12.2016
Cook
Popeyes® Louisana Kitchen
03.2015 - 07.2018
Telephone Customer Service Representative
McGuire Research Services
09.2007 - 05.2009
Forklift Handler
Ethel M Chocolate Factory
06.2005 - 01.2006
Janitorial Worker
J2 Janitorial
03.2005 - 05.2005
Cashier
Goodwill of Southern Nevada
02.2005 - 04.2006
Maricopa Community Colleges - Rio Salado Community College
Associate of Applied Science