Howard Smith
Austin,TX
Summary
Customer-oriented operations and sales professional with over 10 years of experience providing excellent leadership, client relations, and strategic planning. Highly organized and proactive with strengths in communication and collaboration. Since June 2019, developed operations in Austin, Texas, and Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, from the ground up—capitalizing on strategic and scalable approaches, prompting quick continuity in operational improvement, ultimately with the goal of generating enhanced revenue and extend profits. Proven track record in launching innovative water sports businesses, including eFoil lessons, rentals & sales driving customer engagement through digital marketing and community partnerships.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Operator
Efoil Austin LLC
Austin, USA
2020.03 - Current
- Led startup and grand opening of eFoil Austin, a premier electric hydrofoil rental and instruction service, by spearheading business development, creating operational procedures, and establishing efficient workflows—resulting in a fully operational business within 2 months maintaining 5-star customer reviews on google
- Managed day-to-day operations, including budget administration, order fulfillment, business development, performance metrics tracking, instructional sessions, and customer service
- Designed and implemented visual brand elements and messaging to ensure consistency across digital advertising and marketing platforms, enhancing brand recognition
- Directed social media and digital marketing strategies and initiatives to promote revenue-focused activities, customer retention, engagement, and reputation management
- Served as primary point of contact for clients, addressing questions and responding to messages—building long-term relationships that led to a 30% repeat customer rate and positive word-of-mouth referrals
- Created strategic alliances and maintained industry partnerships with local tourism businesses and water sport companies, fostering collaborations that expanded service offerings
Owner/Operator
ElevateU
Aguadilla. , PR
2019.01 - 2020.03
- Established eFoil operations in Puerto Rico from inception, conducting market research, securing permits, and training local staff and creating partnerships with resorts and tour operators.
- Oversaw logistical coordination for equipment delivery sales and maintenance, mitigating potential delays from international shipping and ensuring 99% uptime for rental fleets.
Education
High School Diploma -
Ben Eielson High School
Eielson Air Force Base, AKCertified Nurses Assistant - Nursing Assistance
University Of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AKSkills
Customer Relations Management
Key Partnership Cultivation
Social Media Management
Event Coordination & Execution
Expert Communication & Negotiation Skills
Customer-Centric Sales Strategies
Operational Management
Reliable, Positive Attitude
Strong Work Ethic
Timeline
Owner/Operator
Efoil Austin LLC
2020.03 - Current
Owner/Operator
ElevateU
2019.01 - 2020.03
High School Diploma -
Ben Eielson High School
Certified Nurses Assistant - Nursing Assistance
University Of Alaska Fairbanks