Derek Towns
Memphis
Summary
Seasoned professional with several years of progressive responsibility in U.S. Military. Dedicated professional with specific focus on deliberate, clear communication, coordinated project management, and conflict resolution. Conscientious tactical mission executor designing expedited missions with team and civilian safety at forefront.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Locksmith Apprentice
Jeske Hardware Distributors
Memphis
2022.08 - Current
- Assisted in repairing and replacing locks on residential properties.
- Learned key cutting techniques using specialized machinery.
- Provided support in installing security systems for homes and businesses.
- Collaborated with senior locksmiths on complex lock mechanisms and systems.
- Educated clients on lock safety measures and best practices.
- Documented service requests and completed work orders accurately for record-keeping.
- Repaired damaged locks by replacing worn tumblers, springs and other components.
- Provided emergency lockout services to residential customers requiring assistance gaining access to their homes or offices.
- Programmed transponder chips for automotive vehicles using specialized diagnostic equipment.
- Installed, repaired and maintained mechanical and electronic locks on various doors and safes.
- Assisted senior locksmiths in rekeying existing locks to new keys per customer requests.
- Disassembled and reassembled complex locking mechanisms using appropriate tools such as picks, wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers.
- Cut new keys and duplicated existing ones by using key cutting machines.
Floor Manager/ Loss Prevention
Bargain Hunt
Southaven
2018.11 - 2022.06
- Created a new more efficient delivery system for large furniture still used until the companies closing
- Managed daily store operations and ensured a positive shopping experience.
- Supervised staff and delegated tasks to maintain efficient workflow.
- Trained new employees on company policies and customer service standards.
- Monitored sales performance and implemented strategies to enhance customer engagement.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty.
- Conducted regular team meetings to communicate goals and improve teamwork.
- Resolved customer complaints or escalated them as necessary for further resolution.
- Maintained a safe, clean and organized floor environment.
- Assigned tasks to team members in accordance with their skillset.
Mobile associate/Assistant Manager
T Mobile
Memphis
2018.08 - 2022.01
- Assisted the company by providing consistency and continuity during an acquisition.
- Supported team in achieving sales goals through effective communication and collaboration.
- Assisted in training new staff on company policies and operational procedures.
- Managed inventory levels to ensure product availability for customers.
- Developed schedules for staff to optimize coverage during peak hours.
- Resolved customer inquiries promptly, maintaining a positive company image.
- Implemented process improvements to streamline daily operations and enhance efficiency.
- Increased sales year over year
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and forecast future sales volumes.
Customer Advocation/ Lube Tech
Valvoline
Mississippi
2018.01 - 2021.01
- Performed routine oil changes and fluid top-offs for various vehicle types.
- Inspected vehicles for leaks, wear, and necessary maintenance services.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of service area and tools.
- Collaborated with team members to improve workflow and efficiency in service delivery.
- Educated customers on basic vehicle maintenance practices and safety protocols.
- Performed oil changes and lubrication services on a variety of vehicles.
- Replaced cabin, fuel, air and oil filters and tested vehicle horn and lights.
- Answered questions regarding vehicle maintenance and recommended necessary repair work to keep vehicles operating properly.
- Maintained records of all work performed according to company guidelines.
- Tested batteries using specialized equipment such as digital multimeters.
- Disposed of used oil containers in accordance with local regulations.
- Diagnosed engine problems by performing visual inspections, listening for unusual noises or checking warning lights on the dashboard.
- Demonstrated excellent problem solving skills when dealing with difficult situations.
- Attended regular training sessions to stay up-to-date with industry standards.
- Assisted in ordering parts from suppliers when required.
Manager/ Area Dev Management
Metro by T-Mobile
Memphis
2015.04 - 2018.06
- Turned my store around in less than six months and was given a management opportunity.
- Developed training programs for new team members in store operations.
- Managed inventory levels to ensure product availability and efficiency.
- Led daily team meetings to enhance communication and collaboration.
- Oversaw adherence to company policies and procedures among staff.
- Coordinated promotional events to drive customer engagement and sales.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and inform decision-making.
- Monitored staff performance and addressed issues.
- Coached, mentored and trained team members in order to improve their job performance.
- Completed thorough opening, closing, and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
- Provided leadership during times of organizational change or crisis situations.
21 Bravo (Combat Engineer)
US Army
Fort Leonard Wood, MO
2007.01 - 2015.01
- Constructed and maintained fortifications to enhance mission readiness.
- Conducted demolition operations to clear obstacles and ensure safe passage.
- Operated heavy machinery for terrain modification and construction tasks.
- Provided training on safety protocols and equipment usage to junior engineers.
- Collaborated with infantry units to integrate engineering support into operations.
- Assessed environmental impacts of construction activities during field operations.
- Developed tactical plans for explosive ordnance disposal missions in combat zones.
- Inspected and repaired essential infrastructure to support troop movements and logistics.
- Identified hazardous objects such as unexploded ordnance or improvised explosive devices.
- Assisted with construction of defensive positions, bridges, and roads.
- Cleared minefields by locating, marking and detonating explosive hazards safely.
- Operated wheeled vehicles and equipment over varied terrain and roadways for support of combat operations
- Repaired damaged structures such as buildings, walls, fences.
- Assured consistent quality control through development of spreadsheets, item lists and other documents to track materials in company inventory.
- Utilized GPS devices to navigate through unfamiliar terrain in hostile environments.
- Installed communication lines between ground units and command posts.
Education
GED -
Southside High School
Memphis, United StatesSkills
- Customer relationship management
- Sales analysis
- Team leadership
- Inventory management
- Problem solving
- Effective communication
- Process improvement
Timeline
Locksmith Apprentice
Jeske Hardware Distributors
2022.08 - Current
Floor Manager/ Loss Prevention
Bargain Hunt
2018.11 - 2022.06
Mobile associate/Assistant Manager
T Mobile
2018.08 - 2022.01
Customer Advocation/ Lube Tech
Valvoline
2018.01 - 2021.01
Manager/ Area Dev Management
Metro by T-Mobile
2015.04 - 2018.06
21 Bravo (Combat Engineer)
US Army
2007.01 - 2015.01
GED -
Southside High School