James Ford
Summary
Highly motivated professional with 30 years of entrepreneurial and management experience. Skillfully creates and maintains professional and loyal relationships with co-workers, staff and clients while managing administrative and sales employees. Comfortable working independently as manager and leader and as collaborative team member. Applies business acumen and experience and exercises decisive judgment to meet and exceed organizational goals.
Seasoned Small Business Owner with [Number] years of experience in operations management, business strategy and financial management. Demonstrated success in capitalizing on new trends and technologies to drive business development initiatives and achieve sales goals.
Entrepreneurial Owner with experience and solid history of business success. Built operations from ground up with strategic and scalable approaches. Well-oriented to quickly identify and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Experienced business leader with demonstrated strategic planning, problem-solving and team-building abilities. Successful at bringing in and training staff to handle customer and business needs. Motivational, diplomatic and respectful of people from different backgrounds.
Accomplished Owner offering [Number] years of progressive business experience. Dedicated to maximizing bottom-line profits with forward-thinking approaches and clear focus on continuous improvement. Knowledgeable about financial administration, regulatory compliance and recordkeeping.
Take-charge professional delivering executive support and team leadership to business operations. Dependable and detail-oriented to manage multiple tasks and priorities. Broad experience includes office management, accounting, accounts receivable, invoicing, dispatching, database management, vendor negotiations and contract management. Recognized for exemplary customer service and team collaboration.
Business-minded professional tackling any job task with gusto and precision. Determined Front Office Supervisor delivering exceptional service and responding to questions and inquiries quickly. Demonstrates positive attitude and readiness to adapt to different situations.
Knowledgeable [Job Title] with over [Number] years of experience bringing planning and problem-solving abilities. Focused on maximizing resource utilization to support scalable operations and increase bottom-line profitability. Organized and systematic with natural relationship-building and leadership talents.
Results-oriented [Job Title] bringing expertise in accounting, supply chain management and marketing. Successful at overseeing all areas of daily operations and making effective policy decisions to positively impact business direction and bottom line profits.
Highly-motivated employee with desire to take on new challenges. Strong worth ethic, adaptability and exceptional interpersonal skills. Adept at working effectively unsupervised and quickly mastering new skills.
Hardworking employee with customer service, multitasking and time management abilities. Devoted to giving every customer a positive and memorable experience.
Committed job seeker with a history of meeting company needs with consistent and organized practices. Skilled in working under pressure and adapting to new situations and challenges to best enhance the organizational brand.
Organized and motivated employee eager to apply time management and organizational skills in various environments. Seeking entry-level opportunities to expand skills while facilitating company growth.
Hardworking and reliable [Job Title] with strong ability in [Task]. Offering [Skill] and [Skill]. Highly organized, proactive and punctual with team-oriented mentality.
Responsible and motivated student ready to apply education in the workplace. Offers excellent technical abilities with software and applications, ability to handle challenging work, and excellent time management skills.
Ambitious, career-focused job seeker, anxious to obtain an entry-level [Job Title] position to help launch career while achieving company goals.
Recent graduate with excellent research, technical and problem-solving skills. Detail-oriented and able to learn new concepts quickly.
Motivated high school student with a track record of academic excellence looking for part-time work. Intends to develop professional work experience utilizing excellent communication and time management skills.
Dedicated student interested in applying excellent communication and interpersonal skills to a [Job Title] role. Experienced in data entry and handling money. Can quickly memorize product details and build customer relationships.
Motivated [Area of study] student seeking internship in [Area of expertise] to gain hands-on experience. Outgoing and friendly with strong drive to succeed.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Manager of Operations
Yard Dogs Landscaping
Muskogee, OK
03.2007 - 10.2017
- Managed daily operations of business, including hiring and training staff.
- Developed strategic plans to increase profitability and efficiency.
- Identified new opportunities for growth, expansion, and diversification.
- Created marketing campaigns to attract new customers.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers.
- Oversaw budgeting and financial management.
- Analyzed industry trends to develop competitive strategies.
- Maintained relationships with existing clients by providing superior customer service.
- Implemented quality assurance processes to ensure product excellence.
- Researched potential partners in order to expand services offered.
- Collaborated with other owners on joint ventures and shared resources.
- Organized events such as trade shows and conferences.
- Reviewed legal documents related to business operations.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Developed policies and procedures for the organization.
- Provided direction and guidance to employees.
- Monitored performance of personnel against goals set forth by the company.
- Conducted performance reviews for employees on a regular basis.
- Served as a liaison between the organization and external stakeholders.
- Participated in meetings with investors regarding financing options for the company.
- Set pricing structures according to market analytics and emerging trends.
- Promoted business on social media platforms to maximize brand identity and generate revenue.
- Supervised performance of workers with goals of improving productivity, efficiency and cost savings.
- Led startup and creation of operational procedures and workflow planning.
- Oversaw project execution, phase progress, workmanship and team performance to drive on-time completion of deliverables.
- Oversaw staff hiring, initiating new training and scheduled processes to streamline operations.
- Developed and implemented successful sales strategies to meet business goals.
- Negotiated with vendors to gain optimal pricing on products resulting in substantial increase in profit margin.
- Analyzed client business needs and assisted in determining appropriate resources and strategies.
- Enhanced operational performance by developing effective business strategies, systems and procedures.
- Employed and managed vendors by negotiating deliverables, cost and expected quality.
- Hosted special events to boost brand awareness and increase community engagement.
- Managed sales presentations to promote product and brand benefits.
- Prepared weekly schedules to verify proper floor coverage within fiscal guidelines.
- Created and implemented employee onboarding and training programs to promote employee retention and team collaboration.
- Hired and trained new department managers to increase team oversight and productivity.
- Executed performance reviews to encourage improved productivity for team members.
- Conducted market research activities and competitive analysis to facilitate implementation of aggressive company marketing strategy.
- Coordinated with technical and IT teams to develop company website and create online advertisements.
- Kept records for production, inventory, income and expenses.
- Determined pricing for products or services based on costs and competition.
- Managed operations budgeting, accounts payable and accounts receivable and payroll.
- Interviewed, trained and supervised employees.
- Reconciled daily sales, prepared bank deposits and assessed financial transaction reports.
- Resolved issues quickly through meticulous research and quick decision-making.
- Analyzed financial statements and trends to manage cash flow and make business decisions.
- Conferred with customers to understand needs and finalize purchase orders.
- Kept up-to-date on regulatory changes affecting business operations.
- Established favorable relationships with vendors and contractors, facilitating contract negotiation and development of marketing and sales strategies.
- Supervised company social media and marketing efforts to expand brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Created and implemented marketing and advertising strategies to support revenue goals and promote strategic growth.
- Developed business from ground up and prepared records and operations for smooth handover to new owners.
- Mentored and trained new hires on sales techniques and customer service procedures.
- Improved company's quality and productivity by streamlining systems and processes.
- Used excellent verbal skills to engage customers in conversation and effectively determine needs and requirements.
- Completed thorough opening, closing and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
- Prepared staff work schedules and assigned team members to specific duties.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Monitored inventory levels and placed new orders for merchandise to keep supply well-stocked.
- Used strong issue resolution and communication skills to cultivate and strengthen lasting client relationships.
- Formed and sustained strategic relationships with clients.
- Reviewed financial statements and sales or activity reports to measure productivity or goal achievement.
- Implemented successful business strategies to increase revenue and target new markets.
- Appraised inventory levels on frequent basis, ordering new merchandise to keep quantities well-stocked.
- Created effective business plans to focus strategic decisions on long-term objectives.
- Monitored progress by establishing plans, budgets and measuring results.
- Coordinated and directed activities of businesses or departments concerning production, pricing and sales.
- Improved productivity initiatives, managing budgets and accounts, coordinating itinerary and scheduling appointments.
- Mitigated business risks by working closely with staff members and assessing performance.
- Implemented campaigns and promotions to help with developing goods and services.
- Forecasted customer demand to set prices or credit terms for goods or services.
- Directed or coordinated financial or budget activities to fund operations and maximize investments.
- Structured HR consulting services to support clients during organizational developments and changes.
Locomotive Engineer
Union Pacific
Muskogee, OK
02.1995 - 07.2017
- Observed track conditions for any obstructions or repairs that may be necessary along route.
- Checked paperwork related to cargo being transported for accuracy and completeness prior to departure.
- Ensured proper functioning of airbrakes and monitored pressure levels throughout trips.
- Provided assistance in loading and unloading cargo onto trains when necessary.
- Notified dispatch office of arrival times at stations along route according to schedule.
- Inspected couplers regularly for signs of wear or damage while en route.
- Managed safe operation of train by monitoring weather conditions, track switches, and signal lights.
- Stopped train at designated points along route according to schedule.
- Communicated via radio with other engineers regarding traffic issues on shared tracks.
- Followed emergency procedures if derailment or other accidents occurred while operating train.
- Recorded information about fuel usage, mileage traveled, and time spent on each run accurately into logbook.
- Adhered strictly to safety protocols when dealing with hazardous materials during transport.
- Operated locomotive in accordance with Federal Railroad Administration regulations.
- Inspected locomotive daily to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Conducted pre-trip inspections of the engine, brakes, and other systems before each trip.
- Assisted in coupling and uncoupling cars from train as needed.
- Maintained communication between yard personnel and crew members during switching operations.
- Performed minor maintenance on locomotives such as oiling, greasing, and cleaning.
- Monitored speedometer readings to ensure adherence to posted speed limits.
- Reported all delays or mechanical problems encountered during shifts to supervisor immediately.
- Responded promptly to signals from railroad dispatchers regarding changes in route or schedule.
- Performed train inspections, tests and procedures, completed associated paperwork and identified and documented train equipment defects.
- Operated locomotives according to strict delivery and route schedules.
- Drove trains and operated engines and handled mechanical train operations.
- Conducted brake checks and general inspections before work.
- Conducted movement of rail cars and overall train and completed or verified air couplings and electrical connections between locomotives.
- Positioned train at originating station before scheduled departure time and performed switching assignments in cooperation with other departments.
- Observed tracks to find and repair obstructions.
- Prepared reports documenting locomotive issues.
- Trained [Number] roustabouts and roughnecks on offshore oil rig, ordered tools and replacement parts and assessed tongs that connect drill pipe and spinning chain.
- Inspected ship pumps, turbines and condensers and prepared record of condition.
Owner
Furniture Liquidators
Muskogee, OK
10.2001 - 02.2004
- Managed daily operations of business, including hiring and training staff.
- Developed strategic plans to increase profitability and efficiency.
- Identified new opportunities for growth, expansion, and diversification.
- Created marketing campaigns to attract new customers.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers.
- Oversaw budgeting and financial management.
- Analyzed industry trends to develop competitive strategies.
- Maintained relationships with existing clients by providing superior customer service.
- Implemented quality assurance processes to ensure product excellence.
- Researched potential partners in order to expand services offered.
- Collaborated with other owners on joint ventures and shared resources.
- Organized events such as trade shows and conferences.
- Reviewed legal documents related to business operations.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Developed policies and procedures for the organization.
- Provided direction and guidance to employees.
- Monitored performance of personnel against goals set forth by the company.
- Conducted performance reviews for employees on a regular basis.
- Served as a liaison between the organization and external stakeholders.
- Participated in meetings with investors regarding financing options for the company.
- Set pricing structures according to market analytics and emerging trends.
- Promoted business on social media platforms to maximize brand identity and generate revenue.
- Supervised performance of workers with goals of improving productivity, efficiency and cost savings.
- Led startup and creation of operational procedures and workflow planning.
- Oversaw project execution, phase progress, workmanship and team performance to drive on-time completion of deliverables.
- Oversaw staff hiring, initiating new training and scheduled processes to streamline operations.
- Developed and implemented successful sales strategies to meet business goals.
- Negotiated with vendors to gain optimal pricing on products resulting in substantial increase in profit margin.
- Analyzed client business needs and assisted in determining appropriate resources and strategies.
- Enhanced operational performance by developing effective business strategies, systems and procedures.
- Employed and managed vendors by negotiating deliverables, cost and expected quality.
- Hosted special events to boost brand awareness and increase community engagement.
- Managed sales presentations to promote product and brand benefits.
- Prepared weekly schedules to verify proper floor coverage within fiscal guidelines.
- Created and implemented employee onboarding and training programs to promote employee retention and team collaboration.
- Hired and trained new department managers to increase team oversight and productivity.
- Executed performance reviews to encourage improved productivity for team members.
- Conducted market research activities and competitive analysis to facilitate implementation of aggressive company marketing strategy.
- Coordinated with technical and IT teams to develop company website and create online advertisements.
- Kept records for production, inventory, income and expenses.
- Determined pricing for products or services based on costs and competition.
- Managed operations budgeting, accounts payable and accounts receivable and payroll.
- Interviewed, trained and supervised employees.
- Reconciled daily sales, prepared bank deposits and assessed financial transaction reports.
- Resolved issues quickly through meticulous research and quick decision-making.
- Analyzed financial statements and trends to manage cash flow and make business decisions.
- Conferred with customers to understand needs and finalize purchase orders.
- Kept up-to-date on regulatory changes affecting business operations.
- Established favorable relationships with vendors and contractors, facilitating contract negotiation and development of marketing and sales strategies.
- Supervised company social media and marketing efforts to expand brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Created and implemented marketing and advertising strategies to support revenue goals and promote strategic growth.
- Developed business from ground up and prepared records and operations for smooth handover to new owners.
- Mentored and trained new hires on sales techniques and customer service procedures.
- Improved company's quality and productivity by streamlining systems and processes.
- Used excellent verbal skills to engage customers in conversation and effectively determine needs and requirements.
- Completed thorough opening, closing and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
- Prepared staff work schedules and assigned team members to specific duties.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Monitored inventory levels and placed new orders for merchandise to keep supply well-stocked.
- Used strong issue resolution and communication skills to cultivate and strengthen lasting client relationships.
- Formed and sustained strategic relationships with clients.
- Reviewed financial statements and sales or activity reports to measure productivity or goal achievement.
- Implemented successful business strategies to increase revenue and target new markets.
- Appraised inventory levels on frequent basis, ordering new merchandise to keep quantities well-stocked.
- Created effective business plans to focus strategic decisions on long-term objectives.
- Monitored progress by establishing plans, budgets and measuring results.
- Coordinated and directed activities of businesses or departments concerning production, pricing and sales.
- Improved productivity initiatives, managing budgets and accounts, coordinating itinerary and scheduling appointments.
- Mitigated business risks by working closely with staff members and assessing performance.
- Implemented campaigns and promotions to help with developing goods and services.
- Forecasted customer demand to set prices or credit terms for goods or services.
- Directed or coordinated financial or budget activities to fund operations and maximize investments.
- Structured HR consulting services to support clients during organizational developments and changes.
Resturant General Manager
Zepps Bar and Grill
Muskogee, OKLAHOMA
04.1991 - 10.1994
- Ensured compliance with health, safety and sanitation standards.
- Maintained accurate inventories of food, supplies and equipment.
- Monitored daily operations to ensure adherence to established policies and procedures.
- Scheduled staff shifts and monitored labor costs.
- Recruited, trained and supervised staff members.
- Developed marketing strategies to promote restaurant services.
- Resolved customer complaints in a professional manner.
- Established cash control systems for register transactions.
- Analyzed financial statements and prepared budgets for the restaurant.
- Reviewed menu items on a regular basis to ensure quality standards were met.
- Coordinated catering services for special events such as weddings or banquets.
- Inspected dining areas regularly to maintain cleanliness and proper setup.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors for food supplies, beverages, equipment and other necessary items.
- Implemented cost-saving measures while maintaining high quality service levels.
- Kept up-to-date records of employee performance reviews.
- Managed relationships with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of products.
- Provided direction, guidance and motivation to team members.
- Analyzed sales figures and trends to develop sales strategies that maximize profits.
- Created weekly work schedules according to staffing needs.
- Conducted regular meetings with staff members to discuss operational issues.
- Assisted in resolving any disputes between customers or employees.
- Performed administrative tasks such as payroll processing and accounts receivable management.
- Managed busy and highly popular restaurant with professional, well-trained staff.
- Motivated staff through acknowledgment of hard work, achievements and instilling accountability while leading by example.
- Optimized profits by controlling food, beverage and labor costs by establishing portion control and quality standards.
- Priced and ordered food products, kitchen equipment and food service supplies.
- Performed accurate monthly inventories of supplies and equipment, including food, beverage, glassware and utensils.
- Scheduled and directed staff in daily work assignments to maximize productivity.
- Upheld restaurant standards for food and beverage quality, team member engagement, financial goals, standard operating procedures and guest experiences.
- Accomplished restaurant and bar human resource objectives by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, assigning, scheduling, coaching, counseling and disciplining management staff.
- Emphasized customer-focused approach, delivering local neighborhood restaurant environment centered on building customer loyalty.
- Reduced food waste by overseeing and planning ingredients, anticipated customers and popularity of items.
- Monitored and trained service team members on suggestive selling practices and continuous sales growth of beverage, appetizer, add-on and desserts.
- Prepared and led food service training programs to teach staff various tasks.
- Established restaurant business plan by surveying restaurant demands, identifying and evaluating competitors and preparing financial and sales projections.
- Prepared strategic and annual forecasts and budgets, analyzed variances and implemented corrective actions to increase average meal checks and customer visits.
- Encouraged patron loyalty by emphasizing customer-focused approach by staff.
- Maintained operations in full compliance with alcohol service standards and legal requirements to prevent incidents of overserving or underage drinking.
- Established restaurant business plan by conferring with people in community to select food and beverage offerings.
- Trained workers in food preparation, money handling and cleaning roles to facilitate restaurant operations.
- Prepared employee schedules to maintain appropriate staffing levels during peak periods.
- Completed thorough opening, closing and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
- Created detailed reports on weekly and monthly revenues and expenses.
- Communicated well and used strong interpersonal skills to establish positive relationships with guests and employees.
- Maintained safe working and guest environment to reduce risk of injury and accidents.
- Resolved and investigated complaints regarding service, food quality and accommodations.
- Optimized profits by controlling food, beverage and labor costs.
- Coached team members on food safety and sanitation processes, customer service, menu education and up-selling techniques to drive revenue.
- Managed accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll.
- Enforced sanitary practices for food handling, general cleanliness and maintenance of dining and kitchen areas.
- Complied with health, sanitation and liquor regulations by clearly communicating and reinforcing standards and procedures to employees.
- Counseled and disciplined staff to address issues promptly and provide constructive feedback.
- Updated computer systems with new pricing and daily food specials.
- Directed and coordinated restaurant activities to obtain optimum customer service and strong employee development.
- Consistently maintained high levels of cleanliness, organization, storage and sanitation of food and beverage products to ensure quality.
- Worked in close collaboration with team members to ensure customers received high-quality service.
- Trained new employees to perform duties.
- Checked with guests to get feedback on food served, resolve issues, bring additional items and refill beverages.
- Oversaw food preparation, production and presentation according to quality standards.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Resolved problems or concerns to satisfaction of involved parties.
- Oversaw inventory and ordered ingredients to restock freezers, fridges and pantry.
- Promoted safe working conditions by monitoring safety procedures and equipment.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Circulated within assigned areas to assess and address customer needs, effectively prioritizing tasks during peak hours.
- Assisted staff by serving food and beverages or bussing tables.
- Explained goals and expectations required of trainees.
- Trained front-of-house staff on restaurant policies and procedures, guest service techniques and communication skills to promote positive experiences.
- Inspected dining and serving areas for cleanliness and proper setup.
- Reconciled daily transactions, balanced cash registers and deposited restaurant's earnings at bank.
- Coached staff on strategies to enhance performance and improve customer relations.
- Supervised activities of dining room staff to maintain service levels and support guest needs.
- Distributed food to service staff for prompt delivery to customers.
- Inspected restrooms and dining and serving areas to foster cleanliness and proper setup.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration And Management
Oklahoma City Community College
Oklahoma City, OKSkills
- Budget Administration
- Business Management
- Marketing Tactics
- KPI Management
- Talent Development
- Project Estimating
- Key Partnership Cultivation
- Territory and Account Oversight
- Training and Development
- Staff Management
- Contract Management
- Profit and Loss Analysis
- Financial Management
- Business Marketing
- Business Planning
- Customer Relations
- Client Service
- Product Branding
- Recruiting and Hiring
- Team Oversight
- Profit and Loss
- Marketing
- Business Administration
- Human Resource Management
- Strategic Project Planning
- Verbal and Written Communication
- Consulting
- Program Creation and Implementation
- Staff Training and Development
- Employee Development
- Financial Planning
- Project Management
- Budget Development
- Negotiation
- Cash Flow Optimization
- Life Cycle Project Management
- Partnership Development
- Investor Relations
- Business Development
- Cost Reduction
- Contract Negotiation Expertise
- Bidding Processes
- Strategic Planning
- Staff Hiring
- Sales Leadership
- Operations Management
- Sales Oversight
- Hiring and Staffing
- Quality Management Systems
- Relationship Building
- Design Coordination
- Marketing and Advertising
- Labor Relations
- Regulatory Compliance
- Administrative Oversight
Timeline
Owner/Manager of Operations
Yard Dogs Landscaping
03.2007 - 10.2017
Owner
Furniture Liquidators
10.2001 - 02.2004
Locomotive Engineer
Union Pacific
02.1995 - 07.2017
Resturant General Manager
Zepps Bar and Grill
04.1991 - 10.1994
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration And Management
Oklahoma City Community College