Derik Wendt
Sioux Falls,SD
Summary
Seasoned owner with broad experience in managing multiple facets of business. Strong background in operations, financial oversight and strategic planning. Skilled at fostering growth through innovative problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Noteworthy contributions to prior work include improved efficiency, increased revenue and enhanced team performance.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Collision Center Manager / Owner Operator
Heavy D's Autobody by Design
Sioux Falls, USA
08.2008 - Current
- Operated local collision repair shop for 17 years, managing 2-4 crew members.
- Gained expertise in sales, marketing, and employee training to drive customer satisfaction and team development.
- Executed insurance estimating and supplement negotiations with insurance representatives.
- Resolved conflicts effectively, ensuring exceptional customer service throughout the repair process.
- Scheduled work efficiently based on crew members' skills and workflow.
- Managed budgeting and procurement for parts and supplies.
- Built strong relationships with local suppliers and adjusters to improve service offerings and streamline repair processes.
- Managed daily operations of a busy collision center.
- Coordinated workflow to ensure timely completion of vehicle repairs.
- Implemented quality control measures to maintain high standards.
- Developed relationships with insurance adjusters to streamline claims processes.
- Oversaw inventory management for parts and materials efficiency.
- Resolved customer concerns to enhance satisfaction and loyalty.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner with empathy and understanding.
- Established relationships with local dealerships for referrals of customers seeking more extensive auto body services.
- Supervised staff members and provided guidance on best practices for repair techniques and processes.
- Ensured that all necessary paperwork was completed correctly prior to releasing repaired vehicles back to customers.
- Identified opportunities for improvement within the Collision Center by analyzing past trends and implementing corrective actions accordingly.
- Developed strategies to reduce costs associated with equipment maintenance, labor hours, materials usage.
- Oversaw financial performance of the Collision Center, setting budgets and monitoring expenses.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly by addressing their concerns directly or coordinating with relevant personnel.
- Kept strict safety practices in all areas of operations.
- Maintained inventory of parts required for vehicle repairs and ordered additional supplies as necessary.
- Coordinated with insurance companies regarding repairs, estimates, payment processing and other related matters.
Kitchen Ministry Head
Resurrection Worship Center
Sioux Falls, USA
06.2022 - Current
- Operate and oversee all kitchen and food-related outreach ministries for Resurrection Worship Center.
- Coordinated volunteers to prepare and serve weekly dinners, fostering fellowship and support within the congregation.
- Managed budgets for weekly dinners and church conferences to ensure financial accountability.
- Create menus for church conferences and events.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Kitchen Manager
The Salvation Army
Sioux Falls, USA
12.2023 - 03.2025
- Oversaw kitchen operations for weekend food assistance program and events, ensuring smooth execution and community support.
- Managed meal preparation, serving, volunteer training, and kitchen maintenance to deliver quality meals and enhance volunteer engagement.
- Created monthly menus for all programs to ensure variety and nutrition.
- Monitored monthly budget and managed ordering of food and kitchen products.
- Conducted donation outreach to secure resources and sustain budget for kitchen operations.
- Supervised stock rooms and maintained inventory of food and non-food items.
- Received and inspected weekly food shipments and donations to ensure quality.
- Implemented creative strategies to maximize resources and utilize miscellaneous donations effectively.
- Deescalated high stress situations while treating everyone with dignity regardless of their situation.
- Managed inventory and ordered supplies to maintain kitchen operations.
- Developed menus that aligned with nutritional guidelines and community needs.
- Trained volunteers in food safety and kitchen procedures for proper operations.
- Oversaw sanitation practices to maintain a clean and safe cooking environment.
- Implemented cost control measures to optimize kitchen budget management.
- Organized community meal programs to support those in need through food services.
- Inspected equipment regularly to identify necessary repairs or replacements.
- Kept kitchen equipment properly functioning by following manufacturer's operating instructions and educating staff on proper use.
Automotive Sales Professional
Empire Auto Sales
Sioux Falls, USA
08.2003 - 05.2009
- Assisted customers in selecting vehicles based on needs and preferences.
- Negotiated pricing and financing options to close sales effectively.
- Completed documentation for contracts, purchase receipts, vehicle registrations, and dealer files, ensuring compliance and accuracy.
- Managed inventory of vehicles on the sales lot for optimal presentation.
- Facilitated trade-in evaluations for customers looking to upgrade their vehicles.
- Answered customer questions about service department operations and procedures.
- Followed up with customers after purchase to ensure satisfaction with product or service received.
Detail Manager
Empire Auto Sales
Sioux Falls, USA
08.2000 - 08.2008
- Managed daily operations of detail department, ensuring timely automotive cleaning and preparation.
- Inspected finished vehicles to verify compliance with cleanliness and quality standards.
- Implemented best practices to streamline workflow in detailing process.
- Trained staff on proper detailing techniques and customer service standards.
- Oversaw inventory management for cleaning supplies and equipment maintenance.
- Developed and implemented quality control checks for detailing processes.
- Coordinated scheduling of appointments with customers and detailing team.
- Ensured compliance with safety protocols in the detailing area.
- Taught team members how to properly wash, wax and vacuum vehicles.
- Implemented strategies designed to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
Cafeteria assistant
Sioux Falls School District
Sioux Falls, SD
08.2000 - 05.2005
- Assisted in preparing nutritious meals for students daily.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen and dining areas.
- Supported food service staff during meal service and student interactions.
- Followed safety guidelines for food handling and preparation processes.
- Operated kitchen equipment following proper safety protocols and procedures.
- Followed guidelines for safe serving, appropriate temperatures and proper presentation.
- Monitored use of condiments, utensils and beverages.
- Greeted customers at the cash register and processed payments accordingly.
- Assisted in serving meals to students and faculty members.
- Cleaned and sanitized tables, chairs, trays and other cafeteria equipment.
- Managed portion control to reduce waste and ensure consistent serving sizes.
Boutique café assistant
Appetezze
Sioux Falls, SD
03.2002 - 06.2004
- Assisted customers with menu selections and dietary preferences.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of cafe dining areas.
- Prepared and served coffee, beverages, and light meals efficiently.
- Operated point-of-sale system for customer transactions accurately.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure smooth cafe operations.
- Restocked supplies and ingredients to meet daily demands.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment, including countertops, tables, shelves and equipment.
- Followed health and safety regulations when handling food items or operating machinery.
- Assisted in preparing coffee, tea and other beverages according to customers' orders.
- Adhered strictly to hygiene protocols while working within the cafe kitchen area.
- Cleaned dishes after each meal period using appropriate cleaning supplies.
- Rang up orders on cash register to process cash, credit card and personal check payments.
- Assisted cook with prep work by cutting vegetables and preparing side dishes and salads.
- Operated industrial dishwasher to wash glassware and utensils.
- Talked pleasantly with customers while taking orders and promoted positive image for business.
- Stored food in designated areas following wrapping, dating, food safety and rotation procedures.
- Wiped down tables and removed trash and dirty plates to provide clean, welcoming dining environment.
- Tailored orders to address customer allergies and gluten concerns.
Education
High school or equivalent -
Washington High School
Sioux Falls, SD05-2005
Skills
- Auto body repair and estimating
- Collision repair and detailing
- Operations management
- Automotive service management
- Paintless dent repair expertise
- Mechanical knowledge
- Cost control strategies
- Organizational skills
- Customer service
- Leadership and team development
- Conflict resolution
- Kitchen and hospitality management
- Food safety and hygiene
- Banquet chef experience
Certification
- Driver's License
- ServSafe
- ServSafe Manager Level, 06/29
Timeline
Kitchen Manager
The Salvation Army
12.2023 - 03.2025
Kitchen Ministry Head
Resurrection Worship Center
06.2022 - Current
Collision Center Manager / Owner Operator
Heavy D's Autobody by Design
08.2008 - Current
Automotive Sales Professional
Empire Auto Sales
08.2003 - 05.2009
Boutique café assistant
Appetezze
03.2002 - 06.2004
Cafeteria assistant
Sioux Falls School District
08.2000 - 05.2005
Detail Manager
Empire Auto Sales
08.2000 - 08.2008
High school or equivalent -
Washington High School