Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

DAVID AUSTIN

Lake Saint Louis,MO

Summary

  • Analytical Problem Solver: Data-driven decision-maker, skilled in monitoring KPI’s and implementing effective action plans to drive improvements
  • Dynamic Operations Leader: Proven track record in strategic operations management
  • Team Builder and Mentor: Strong leader with a commitment to developing and guiding high-performing teams
  • Strategic Relationship Manager: Exceptional ability to build and maintain relationships ensuring alignment and support for shared objectives
  • Marketing and Brand Development: Experienced in crafting and executing marketing strategies that enhance brand visibility, engage target audiences, and drive customer acquisition and retention

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience

Work History

Chief Operating Officer

Basketball Training Systems
03.2019 - 11.2024

Key Accomplishments:

· Sold 12 franchise territories and opened eight locations in a three-year period

· Developed lead generation strategies and marketing funnels which resulted in a 400% increase in monthly leads (from 20 to 100 leads per month)

· Successfully decreased customer acquisition cost and conversion cost by 50% through refinement of our marketing strategies

Key Responsibilities:

· Strategic Operations Management: developed and implemented operational strategies aligned with the company’s mission and vision

· Franchise Development and Support: developed and maintained strong relationships with franchise partners while overseeing onboarding and training, and providing resources and support

· Performance Optimization: identified opportunities for improvements and implemented actions plans; led initiatives to standardize operational processes resulting in consistency in program delivery

· Team Leadership: built and led a high-performing operations team, fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement; mentored staff at all levels

· Financial Management: managed budgets and ensured financial sustainability through analysis of financial reports in collaboration with the finance team

  • Marketing: increased brand awareness and drove customer engagement through development and execution of comprehensive and innovative marketing strategies

General Manager

Larry Hughes Basketball Academy
05.2017 - 01.2021

Key Accomplishments:

· Increased annual revenue by 400% during the first three years in role ($115k  $600k)

· Additional 50% revenue increase through identifying a location, managing build, and opening a second location in the St Louis market during my fourth year in role ($600k $900k)

Key Responsibilities:

· Leadership & Team Development: promoted growth and excellence through cultivating a positive workplace culture, mentoring direct reports, promoting open communication, creativity, and accountability

· Staff Management: built a successful team by recruiting, training, and developing staff’s skillset

· Sales & Marketing Support: increased memberships and corporate sponsorships through effective sales techniques and efficient member renewal process

· Financial Management: achieved financial goals due to excellent management of monthly financial performance and addressing emerging issues promptly; oversaw revenue and expense management to ensure financial health

General Manager

Westridge Family Markets
12.1997 - 03.2016

Key Accomplishments:

· Launched a successful line of private label products which out-sold national brands and became top sellers in multiple categories

· Increased profit margins by 8% through attending buyers conventions and negotiating better pricing with distributors

· Reduced labor costs by 2% by adjusting delivery schedules allowing labor loading on delivery days and reducing labor on non-delivery days

Key Responsibilities:

· Operations Management: managed two profitable markets; oversaw daily operations including purchasing, human resources, P&L management, vendor relations, compliance with local and state regulations, and customer service

· Staff Development and Leadership (135 employees): fostered a knowledgeable and customer-focused team by providing thorough training and development opportunities

· Sales and Marketing Initiatives: consistently achieved sales growth of 4-12% over a 15-year period through implementation of creative marketing strategies such a local vendor fairs, creation of private label products, introduction of new products, ensuring excellent product quality, and maintaining competitive pricing

· Technical Skills and Maintenance: ensured reliable store operations through management of complex equipment and systems (POS hardware and software, refrigeration, HVAC, electrical, plumbing)

Owner

Tacklehead Fishing Products
01.2006 - 07.2024

Key Accomplishments:

· Launched a successful fishing tackle company by developing custom fishing products

· Achieved sustained growth in a competitive market by anticipating market trends and pivoting product selection as needed to meet customer demand

Key Responsibilities:

· Product Development and Management: Developed unique and effective fishing lures and tackle solutions

· Online Presence and Marketing: Drove customer engagement through design and development of a company website, producing engaging video tutorials, and fostering customer loyalty

Freshwater Fishing Guide

Ojai Angler Guide Service
02.2001 - 04.2004

Key Accomplishments:

· Contributed to business growth by building a loyal customer base through positive client interactions and repeat bookings

· Ensured compliance with local and state fishing regulations by ensuring client education, observing conservation efforts, and implementation of best practices

Key Responsibilities:

· Client Engagement: created excellent experiences for clients by assisting with bait selection, teaching rigging techniques, and helping them improve casting skills

Grocery Cashier and Stock Clerk

Albertsons Grocery Store
07.1995 - 01.1997

Key Accomplishments:

· Enhanced the customer experience by delivering exceptional customer service, resolving issues promptly, and creating a clean and welcoming environment

· Ensured efficient operations while keeping shelves stocked, operating cash registers, and collaborating with team members

Key Responsibilities:

· Customer Service: Operated cash register, stocked shelves, monitored inventory levels

Assistant Activities Director

Ventura Boys and Girls Club
02.1993 - 08.1995

Key Accomplishments:

· Implemented diverse recreational and educational programs for children in grades 1 – 8

· Designed team building activities which resulted in increased social skills, developed leadership mindset, and built mutual respect among participants

Key Responsibilities:

· Leadership and Supervision: created a safe and positive environment through supervision and training of volunteers and junior staff

· Communication and Community Engagement: fostered community involvement by establishing and maintaining strong communication with parents, guardians, and community sponsors

  • Coordinated care and maintenance of athletic facilities with Facilities Director.
  • Updated activities web page with sports and activities-related news.
  • Updated weekly newsletters and calendars with latest plans.
  • Coordinated game officials and event security to foster safety and order.

Education

Associates of Arts and Sciences Degree -

Ventura College
Ventura, California
05.1996

Skills

  • Operations administration
  • Fiscal oversight
  • Planning and execution
  • Personnel development
  • Business analysis
  • Business process reengineering
  • Cross-functional teamwork
  • General management and administration
  • Performance management
  • Marketing
  • Operations management

Timeline

Chief Operating Officer

Basketball Training Systems
03.2019 - 11.2024

General Manager

Larry Hughes Basketball Academy
05.2017 - 01.2021

Owner

Tacklehead Fishing Products
01.2006 - 07.2024

Freshwater Fishing Guide

Ojai Angler Guide Service
02.2001 - 04.2004

General Manager

Westridge Family Markets
12.1997 - 03.2016

Grocery Cashier and Stock Clerk

Albertsons Grocery Store
07.1995 - 01.1997

Assistant Activities Director

Ventura Boys and Girls Club
02.1993 - 08.1995

Associates of Arts and Sciences Degree -

Ventura College
DAVID AUSTIN