Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Additional Information
Timeline
Generic
Donovan Kokel

Donovan Kokel

Pflugerville

Summary

Encouraging manager and analytical problem-solver with talents for team building, leading and motivating, as well as excellent customer relations aptitude and relationship-building skills. Proficient in using independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success. Dedicated to applying training, monitoring and morale-building abilities to enhance employee engagement and boost performance.

Overview

38
38
years of professional experience

Work History

Santa

5 XL Ventures LLC.
11.2024 - Current
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.

Roll Off Truck Driver

Texas Disposal Systems
04.2023 - 03.2025
  • Operated roll-off trucks to transport waste materials efficiently across designated routes.
  • Conducted pre-trip inspections to ensure vehicle safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Collaborated with dispatchers to optimize route planning and minimize delays.
  • Maintained cleanliness and functionality of truck equipment through regular maintenance checks.
  • Monitored weight limits to ensure compliance with legal standards during transport activities.
  • Maximized equipment lifespan with routine preventative maintenance checks and timely repairs when necessary.
  • Navigated difficult terrain with ease, ensuring smooth and safe transportation of materials to their designated disposal sites.
  • Skillfully maneuvered roll-off truck in tight spaces, preventing property damage and maintaining a clean driving record.
  • Completed daily inspections, basic maintenance and common repair actions to keep equipment operating at full capacity.
  • Documented mileage, deliveries, pickups, customer issues and damages.
  • Communicated with dispatchers and other office personnel to handle two-way updates and adjust daily schedules.

Property Manager

Public Storage
02.2023 - 04.2023
  • Handled tenant complaints promptly and appropriately, calling in repairmen and other support services.
  • Followed up on delinquent tenants and coordinated collection procedures.
  • Completed final move-out walk-throughs with tenants to identify required repairs.
  • Maintained original leases and renewal documents in digital and hardcopy format for property management office.
  • Maintained operational facilities attractive to potential tenants by organizing regular maintenance, major repairs and capital improvement projects.
  • Introduced prospective tenants to types of units available and performed tours of premises.
  • Maintained sufficient number of units market-ready for lease.
  • Communicated regularly with key on-and off-site tenant contacts to achieve satisfaction with facility and services.

Senior Manager

Fun Holdings LLC
10.2020 - 12.2022
  • Evaluated hiring, firing and promotions requests.
  • Managed large-scale projects and introduced new systems, tools, and processes to achieve challenging objectives.
  • Determined priorities and set policies for DJ staff, Door Staff and Waitstaff.
  • Supervised and directed all staff and Wait and Bar teams to keep projects on-track and tasks prioritized.
  • Oversaw reporting functions to executive leadership.
  • Collaborated with vendors, suppliers and transport carriers.
  • Monitored and controlled inventory, encompassing daily production, workflow and distribution.
  • Developed strategic marketing communications and identified audiences for targeted messages.

Owner/Operator/ Manager

DK Towing LLC /Denver's Towing/ Kokel's Wrecker Service.
02.1989 - 12.2020
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
  • Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
  • Oversaw contract management including bid proposals, eligibility, goals, negotiations, and budgeting.
  • Reconciled daily sales, returns and financial reports in QuickBooks.
  • Remained up-to-date on current trends and attended industry trade shows and markets to view and order inventory.
  • Optimized team hiring, training and performance.
  • Monitored market conditions to set accurate product pricing and take advantage of emerging trends.
  • Assessed supplier quality to maintain tight cost controls and maximize business operational performance.
  • Established, optimized and enforced business policies to maintain consistency and high-quality standards across industry operations.
  • Developed key operational initiatives to drive and maintain substantial business growth.
  • Devised processes to boost long-term business success and increase profit levels.
  • Trained and developed team members to build human capital.
  • Reduced personnel turnover and promoted employee development by recruiting team-oriented candidates and implementing new training practices.
  • Aligned branding initiatives and sales strategies with client goals.
  • Generated revenues yearly and effectively capitalized on industry growth.

Fire Captain

Travis County ESD #12
04.2011 - 08.2013


  • Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
  • Responded to emergency medical calls.
  • Preserved order and discipline among subordinates and gave assignments and instructions.
  • Provided team leadership
  • Proposed and submitted budget reports and requests.
  • Was assigned specifically as Incident Safety Officer.
  • Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies, and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
  • Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
  • Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
  • Trained, oversaw and corrected personnel fighting fires.
  • Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
  • Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
  • Oversaw scene safety operations and assigned firefighters to strategic locations.
  • Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms, and equipment.

Salesman

Fuego International
02.2012 - 10.2016


  • Showcased product features to customers and discussed technical details to overcome objections and lock in sales.
  • Upheld high standards of customer service by promoting and upselling new products and services.
  • Used consultative sales approach to understand customer needs and recommend relevant offerings.
  • Followed up with customers after completed sales to assess satisfaction and resolve technical or service concerns.
  • Visited customer locations to evaluate requirements, demonstrate product offerings and propose strategic solutions for diverse needs.
  • Prospected continuously for new potential customers and maintained robust conversion rate.
  • Organized sales paperwork, presented proposals and finalized contracts.
  • Assisted in product placement and visual merchandising, maintaining attractive and inviting appearance.
  • Met with existing customers and prospects to discuss business needs and recommend optimal solutions.
  • Cold-called leads and closed large number of new sales over several months.
  • Boosted brand awareness, implemented promotional campaigns and employed sales tactics as part of territory development.
  • Served as liaison for company, clients and referred prospects regarding inquiries, issues, order management, post-sales follow-up and customer relations.
  • Met frequently with technical, product management and service personnel to stay current on company offerings and business policies.

Roofer

Ramco Roofing
06.1988 - 12.1989
  • Installed, repaired, and replaced single-ply roofing systems.
  • Installed high-quality roofing systems, paying careful attention to hazards and other safety concerns.
  • Safely used all tools and equipment to prevent worksite injuries.
  • Precisely cut felt, shingles and strips of flashing to fit angles formed by walls, vents and intersecting roof surfaces.

Fire Chief / Volunteer

Chisholm Trail Fire Rescue/ Caldwell/Hays ESD #1
03.2010 - 04.2012
  • Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies, and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
  • Directed work of 50 firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
  • Coordinated, scheduled, and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
  • Implemented comprehensive training operations, inspections, and performance evaluations.
  • Optimized fire services management with introduction of new systems, policies, procedures, and tools.
  • Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds and stations for proper order and condition on monthly basis.
  • Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms, and equipment.
  • Maintained and refurbished equipment to improve operational capability.
  • Assessed scenes, coordinated responses and communicated critical details to superiors through two-way radios.
  • Oversaw scene operations and assigned firefighters to strategic locations.
  • Evaluated team performance and implemented strategies to close gaps in skills or knowledge.
  • Trained, oversaw and corrected personnel fighting fires.
  • Inspected buildings to determine fire risk and advise owners on prevention methods.
  • Led team in fighting fires and exercised considerable judgment in deciding best way to extinguish based on type of fuel and environment.
  • Coordinated fire control and prevention operations.
  • Inspected stations, uniforms and vehicles regularly for signs of maintenance needs or general professionalism.
  • Assigned firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
  • Supervised firehouse operations, maintaining inventory and liaising with vendors to secure necessary supplies.
  • Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
  • Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
  • Created fire prevention courses to educate general public.
  • Checked fire suppression equipment regularly and oversaw upkeep.
  • Arranged emergency medical services for victims of fires and other incidents.
  • Maintained required maps and records.

Firefighter / Volunteer

Travis County Fire Control/ Travis County ESD #4
06.1987 - 09.1993


  • Oversaw equipment and vehicle upkeep to maintain emergency readiness.
  • Evaluated situation at emergency sites to determine and execute most effective methods for saving life and property.
  • Carried, placed and extended ladders in training and in emergencies.
  • Educated public and community members on fire safety and prevention methods to provide life-saving techniques.
  • Responded to confined space incidents, EMS and hazardous material incidents.
  • Stabilized and lifted patients with backboard and cot.
  • Removed individuals from dangerous situations and offered emergency assistance for minor and critical concerns.
  • Drove and operated structural pumpers, tankers and service vehicles to aid in rescue operations.
  • Inspected buildings for pre-fire plans, fire hazards.
  • Operated pumping engine to direct water pressure in hose and nozzle for most efficient operation.
  • Trained fire personnel in safe and proper operation and maintenance of fire department apparatus and vehicles.
  • Set up and operated master streams and aerial ladder pipes.
  • Directed evacuations during fires and emergencies to avoid fatalities, injuries and panic.
  • Notified fire dispatchers to detail difficulties encountered, request additional firefighters and obtain emergency supplies.
  • Assessed active fires and consulted with command staff to devise optimal approach and containment strategies.
  • Effectively supported fire suppression by setting up and maintaining water supply lines.
  • Prepared incident reports detailing personnel, location and results of each call.
  • Laid and connected hoses, held nozzles and directed water streams as part of fire suppression activities at active scenes.
  • Conducted thorough tests and inspections of gear, equipment and tools to stay ready for every type of fire.
  • Evaluated areas after containing fires to identify and suppress hot spots.
  • Provided station tours, pre-incident surveys and installed smoke detectors to provide fire education to public.
  • Performed maintenance on water tanks, fire hoses and other firefighting equipment.
  • Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds and stations for proper order and condition on daily basis.
  • Led team in fighting fires and exercised considerable judgment in deciding best way to extinguish based on type of fuel and environment.
  • Filled firetrucks with water, sandbags and gas to maintain proper supply of materials in trucks.
  • Maintained close contact with dispatch to receive and share information about current fires, equipment movements and incoming personnel.
  • Oversaw wildfire response and containment, utilizing fire apparatus and hand tools tools.

Education

Basic Peace Officer - Law Enforcement

Capitol Area Planning Council
Austin, TX
05.1995

GED - General Studies

Pflugerville High School
Pflugerville, TX
11.1989

Skills

  • Business Performance Management
  • Managing Operations and Efficiency
  • Employee Coaching and Motivation
  • Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution
  • Managing Employee Relations
  • Managing RFPS
  • Influencing and Negotiating
  • Administration and Reporting
  • RFP Responses
  • Logistics Operations Management
  • Operations Planning
  • Equipment Decommissioning
  • Scheduling and Coordinating
  • Financial Management and Reporting
  • Managing Deadlines
  • Managing Digital Media
  • Managing Vendors
  • P&L Responsibility
  • Quote and Proposal Management
  • Managing Communications Channels
  • Business Management and Development
  • Budgeting and Resource Management
  • Business Analysis
  • Human Resource Management
  • Transport Logistics
  • Route Planning and Adjustment
  • Equipment Location Identification
  • Resource Coordination
  • Service Vehicle Dispatch
  • Dispatch Recordkeeping
  • Effective Communication
  • Dispatching Field Personnel
  • Emergency Assistance
  • Trucking Dispatching
  • Roadside Assistance
  • Fleet Dispatching

Accomplishments

  • Supervised team of 50 staff members.
  • Negotiated transition of Towing Management Services from the City of Austin to a private vendor on behalf of the Towing Industry in Austin
  • Secured donations from companies including Koch Industries for local Fire Departments.
  • Worked with the Texas Forest Service to implement the Fire Wise community project.
  • Worked with The Travis County Sheriff Office to modify the contract structure and standards for the Towing industry in Travis County.

Additional Information

I hold several certification in the fire service including, EMS 1st responder (ECA) expired, intermediate Fire Firefighter volunteer, Hazmat Operations, Hazmat Incident Command, ICS 100,200,300,400, 700, 800, 804, Incident Safety Officer, Fire Officer 1, Instructor 1, abd Fire Apparatus Operator.

Additionally I hold certification in Towing Operations. Wreckmaster 1/2, as well as others.

I also held the position of President of the Austin Towing Association.

I negotiated with the City of Austin and other government entities and stake holders on behalf of the Towing industry in Austin.

Sat on 2 separate advisory boards including ARTAG and AIM. Both focused on Traffic Incident Management.

Organized, attended and spoke on several occasions at the Austin City Council meetings in regards to Towing issues in the City.

Timeline

Santa

5 XL Ventures LLC.
11.2024 - Current

Roll Off Truck Driver

Texas Disposal Systems
04.2023 - 03.2025

Property Manager

Public Storage
02.2023 - 04.2023

Senior Manager

Fun Holdings LLC
10.2020 - 12.2022

Salesman

Fuego International
02.2012 - 10.2016

Fire Captain

Travis County ESD #12
04.2011 - 08.2013

Fire Chief / Volunteer

Chisholm Trail Fire Rescue/ Caldwell/Hays ESD #1
03.2010 - 04.2012

Owner/Operator/ Manager

DK Towing LLC /Denver's Towing/ Kokel's Wrecker Service.
02.1989 - 12.2020

Roofer

Ramco Roofing
06.1988 - 12.1989

Firefighter / Volunteer

Travis County Fire Control/ Travis County ESD #4
06.1987 - 09.1993

Basic Peace Officer - Law Enforcement

Capitol Area Planning Council

GED - General Studies

Pflugerville High School

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