Donna Brown
Westbrook,ME
Summary
Dynamic store manager with a strong focus on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Proven track record in maximizing sales through strategic planning, effective training, and mentorship of staff. Committed to fostering positive customer relationships and enhancing team productivity.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Store Manager
Rusty Lantern Market
Cumberland, ME
03.2025 - 03.2026
- Managed daily store operations to enhance customer service and satisfaction.
- Maximized sales and minimized shrinkage through excellent customer service and adherence to standard practices.
- Supervised staff performance by providing training and mentorship to improve team productivity and efficiency.
- Mentored new hires during their onboarding process, ensuring they were well-equipped to excel in their roles from day one.
- Fostered positive customer relationships through effective communication, resolving issues promptly and professionally.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clients.
- Developed and implemented inventory management strategies to minimize waste and improve stock accuracy.
- Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
- Analyzed sales trends to drive promotional strategies and increase overall revenue.
- Set effective store schedules based on forecasted customer levels, individual employee knowledge, and service requirements.
- Led safety initiatives ensuring compliance with regulations, enhancing workplace safety culture among staff.
- Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
- Ensured timely payroll processing to maintain employee satisfaction.
Life Insurance Producer
Symmetry Financial Group
06.2020 - 02.2025
- Sales Consultant for Life, Mortgage protection and final expense protecting families
- Conducted comprehensive needs assessments to identify optimal life insurance products for clients.
- Cultivated client relationships through personalized insurance solutions, increasing customer satisfaction and retention rates.
- Developed targeted marketing strategies to attract potential clients and expand market reach.
- Streamlined application processes using digital tools, enhancing efficiency and reducing turnaround time.
- Trained and mentored new producers on best practices, fostered a collaborative team environment.
General Manager
Denny's Restaurant/Auburn
Auburn
06.2019 - 12.2020
- Managed all aspects of general operations for the organization. Focus on profit, training and brand standard practices
- Developed and implemented strategies that increased customer satisfaction and elevated service quality.
- Led recruitment, training, and development of staff, enhancing team effectiveness and improving retention rates.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with company policies and operational standards to maintain efficiency.
- Implemented health and safety protocols to ensure compliance with local regulations and maintain a safe environment.
Associate Manger
Cracker Barrel Restaurant
10.2017 - 06.2019
- Developed and implemented customer service initiatives that enhanced guest satisfaction ratings.
- Oversaw daily restaurant operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Trained and mentored staff, and fostered a collaborative work environment.
- Led training on brand standards and health practices.
- Coordinated team schedules to optimize labor efficiency during peak hours.
- Resolved worker issues and conflicts through negotiation and active listening.
Store Manager
Energy North Group/Mobil
10.2016 - 10.2017
- Managed store employees successfully in a fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
- Trained staff in customer service and product knowledge, contributing to enhanced customer satisfaction.
- Assisted with hiring, training and mentoring new staff members.
- Mentored new hires during their onboarding process, ensuring they were well-equipped to excel in their roles from day one.
- Streamlined processes across multiple store departments, leading to improved operational efficiency.
- Store operations, Sales floor design, building sales daily, training and accounting
- Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
- Reconciled daily sales transactions to balance and log day-to-day revenue.
- Provided excellent customer service and adhered to standard practices, maximizing sales and minimizing shrinkage.
General Manager
Denny's Restaurant/ Portland
Portland
08.2005 - 10.2016
- Full charge General Manager. 10 years of growth, sales and implementing to be a training unit
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Managed financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control initiatives.
- Collaborated with executive leadership on strategic planning initiatives aligned with business goals.
- Oversaw implementation of departmental budgets, employee reviews, training, and schedules.
- Coached and mentored personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems to maximize efficiency.
- Developed comprehensive employee training programs to enhance skills, productivity, and compliance with industry regulations.
- Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
- Resolved customer complaints and feedback promptly, converting dissatisfied customers into loyal patrons.
- Supported recruitment efforts by screening candidates and scheduling interviews., hiring and training of team members.
Manager
Hickory Farm Kiosk
10.2007 - 01.2008
- Supervised daily operations of Hickory Farm Kiosk, ensuring efficient service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Trained team members on product knowledge and customer service techniques, enhancing service quality and customer experience.
- Managed inventory levels to maintain stock availability and reduce waste.
- Coordinated promotional activities that increased customer engagement and drove sales.
Education
Real Estate
USM
Portland, ME03-1995
Skills
- Store operations
- Inventory management
- Service operations
- Operational coaching
- Team recruitment
- Leadership
- Store operations
- Customer service
- Client relations
- Issue resolution
- Work organization
Timeline
Store Manager
Rusty Lantern Market
03.2025 - 03.2026
Life Insurance Producer
Symmetry Financial Group
06.2020 - 02.2025
General Manager
Denny's Restaurant/Auburn
06.2019 - 12.2020
Associate Manger
Cracker Barrel Restaurant
10.2017 - 06.2019
Store Manager
Energy North Group/Mobil
10.2016 - 10.2017
Manager
Hickory Farm Kiosk
10.2007 - 01.2008
General Manager
Denny's Restaurant/ Portland
08.2005 - 10.2016
Real Estate
USM