Jacob Hardin
Chicago,IL
Summary
Business Development Manager with extensive experience in marketing, product development, and operational management across diverse industries. Proven track record in creating and executing comprehensive marketing strategies, enhancing user experiences, and driving business growth through innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. Adept at analyzing data to inform risk management and improve service delivery with a proactive approach to developing new revenue streams and cross-marketing opportunities.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Development Manager
Joy Memories, Inc.
04.2022 - Current
- Produced comprehensive marketing strategies for social media and advertising campaigns across all Holiday and Newborn locations
- Developed SMS marketing workflows in collaboration with the marketing team
- Enhanced user experience on the new reservation website through coordinated efforts with Marketing and Design teams
- Directed copy and imagery for the reservation website, implementing UI/UX improvements launched in September 2023
- Analyzed complaint data to improve risk management across social media and other platforms
- Designed and implemented 'Santa's Village' sets for VIP Holiday Photos division
- Currently developing multiple upsell opportunities via the reservation website and on-site purchases
- Established partnerships to promote Santa sets through cross-marketing opportunities.
Regional Manager
VIP Recognition
09.2021 - 04.2022
- Managed contracted malls in Texas for Santa and Easter Bunny sets under VIP Holiday Photos
- Trained, supervised, and oversaw district managers, location managers, and staff/photographers at mall sets and hospitals in Texas.
Sales Development Representative
VIP Recognition
02.2021 - 09.2021
- Reported to Account Managers and C-suite, providing leads for potential contracts for the Holiday Division
- Designed 'Santa Village' sets for enclosed retail spaces
- Identified high-foot traffic shopping centers and provided leads to AMs and C-suite
- Built relationships with domestic and overseas suppliers to secure equipment and decor for Santa Village sets.
Product Marketing Associate
VIP Recognition
06.2019 - 10.2020
- Developed products and services for golf and newborn photography divisions
- Conducted social media and email marketing campaigns
- Collaborated with in-house developer to enhance the backend of Welcomenewborn.com
- Executed product development plans; coordinated product rollouts and promotional activities
- Improved online visibility and website traffic through SEO
- Organized trade show preparations with management team.
Marketing Intern
Hart Energy
05.2018 - 08.2018
- Conducted market research and coordinated with service directors to create industry insights, newsletters, and webinars
- Utilized Salesforce and Marketo for CRM and marketing projects
- Created social media posts using Oktopost
- Assisted VP of Marketing in identifying potential clients for services and seminars.
Banquet Staff
Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center
03.2017 - 08.2017
- Set up events for alumni, faculty, public, and students
- Provided hospitality and established rapport with guests
- Monitored event rooms for seating availability, service, safety, and guest well-being.
Marketing Associate
SRH Realty Group
05.2016 - 01.2017
- Created art and graphics for social media, signage, and email marketing
- Managed overall branding of the real estate group
- Developed the company website using WordPress and increased social media exposure
- Designed company logo, business cards, and real estate signs.
Warehouse Helper
Toledo Metal Spinning Company
06.2015 - 09.2015
- Maintained warehouse cleanliness and safety standards
- Organized and stored pallets, ensuring warehouse efficiency
- Handled pick-ups and deliveries.
Warehouse Team Member
Event Photography Group
07.2014 - 05.2015
- Led warehouse improvement initiatives
- Ensured accurate shipping and receiving of items
- Maintained warehouse safety standards
- Supervised material flow, storage, and order fulfillment.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Marketing
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI05.2019
Skills
- Team Leadership
- Business development and planning
- Negotiations
- Client Relationship Building
- Sales and Marketing
- CRM Management
Timeline
Business Development Manager
Joy Memories, Inc.
04.2022 - Current
Regional Manager
VIP Recognition
09.2021 - 04.2022
Sales Development Representative
VIP Recognition
02.2021 - 09.2021
Product Marketing Associate
VIP Recognition
06.2019 - 10.2020
Marketing Intern
Hart Energy
05.2018 - 08.2018
Banquet Staff
Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center
03.2017 - 08.2017
Marketing Associate
SRH Realty Group
05.2016 - 01.2017
Warehouse Helper
Toledo Metal Spinning Company
06.2015 - 09.2015
Warehouse Team Member
Event Photography Group
07.2014 - 05.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Marketing
Michigan State University