JASON R. DESJARDINS
Lincoln,RI
Summary
Dynamic leader with a proven track record at YMCA and Wholefoods, recognized for driving a 15% increase in membership growth and successfully implementing the Livestrong program. Expertise in fostering supportive workplace cultures and managing operational efficiencies. Strong skills in team development, strategic planning, and community engagement align with a commitment to enhancing organizational impact.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Operations Director of Leominster Comunity
YMCA North County
Leominster, MA
12.2023 - Current
- Launched Livestrong program in North County, growing to over 20 participants within one year.
- Led wellness initiatives for two YMCA branches.
- Led complete oversight of Group X's programs, instructors, staff, and training.
- Doubled financial contributions for LCB's annual campaign by leading Mission in Motion.
- Achieved a 15% membership growth in Leominster within a period of 10 months.
- Spearheaded the development of new fitness programs and instructors.
- Directed daily operations and membership activities at Leominster branch.
EXERCISE FOR ALL, LIVESTRONG, AQUATICS, SPIN, HIIT INSTRUCTOR, PERSONAL TRAINER
YMCA Greendale Family Branch
Worcester, MA
12.2021 - 12.2023
- Held position of Job Coach in groundbreaking Adult Day Program.
- Trained and retained a diverse base of over 20 personal training clients.
- Assisted in boosting participation and engagement in Live Strong initiatives.
- Conducted Group X instruction with a focus on Spin, HIIT, and Livestrong.
- Facilitated skill-building sessions for young athletes throughout consecutive seasonal programs.
CATERING, EVENTS & DISC GOLF DIRECTOR
Meadowbrook Orchards
Sterling, MA
12.2018 - 12.2022
- Introduced disc golf to Meadowbrook.
- Founded and organized the Jeffrey Cranston Pro/Am tournament, held annually for five years.
- Launched comprehensive digital presence for MBO disc golf that boosted restaurant sales by more than 25%.
- Secured tournament sponsors and organized new course baskets.
- Developed a comprehensive catering program, generating $350K in sales within two years.
- Marketed innovative lunch offerings leading to successful implementation.
CO-OWNER
C.A.S. Handmade inc.
Hudson, MA
12.2012 - 12.2018
- Oversaw procurement, financial operations, and marketing initiatives.
- Launched and curated the setup of two retail locations featuring handmade goods by US artists.
- Successfully transitioned from original location to a larger store within one year.
- Managed comprehensive financial operations and maintained investor reports.
- Expanded annual sales revenue from $13,000 to $650,000 within five years.
ASSOCIATE STORE TEAM LEADER/SPECIALTY FOODS COORDINATOR
WHOLE FOODS MARKET
Framingham/Bedford/Hadley/Cambridge, MA
12.1998 - 12.2017
- Transitioned to part-time and seasonal roles during career change to Lowe's.
- Oversaw daily store operations, financial management, and spending controls.
- Managed HR operations, staff development, and merchandising activities.
- Assisted in planning and executing remodels of prepared foods, grocery, specialty areas.
- Worked in Cambridge coordinating specialty services.
- Established trust with vendors by securing region-wide deals.
- Enhanced customer experience through improved beverage selection.
- Conceptualized a unique section for Dedham's flagship store, featuring an array of specialty offerings.
- Provided comprehensive training and mentoring to team members for advancement into leadership roles.
- Enhanced sales and decreased shrinkage through effective product placement and mix.
Education
Core Certificate Program for Non Profit - Non Profit Leadership
Institute For Non Profit Practice
Providence, RI05-2025
Landmark forum, and excellence seminar
Landmark Education
Quincy, MA01-2012
Dale Carnegie Strictly Business Immersion Course
Worcester, MA02-2007
Associate of Arts - Studies in French, Asian, Regional American and Early European Cuisine, beer, wine, Health and Nutrition, business and sanitation
Culinary Institute of America
Hyde Park, NY03-1998
Skills
- Effective Personnel Leadership
- Proven Management Skills Across Operations
- Cultivated Supportive Workplace Culture
- Developed HR Management Programs
- Skilled Leader in Clear Communication
- Initiative Taking
- Supportive Leadership Development
- Customer Service Excellence
Certification
- Personal Training Certified.
- Spin Instructor Certified.
- Group exercise certified.
- Livestrong Coordinator
- CPR certified.
Timeline
Operations Director of Leominster Comunity
YMCA North County
12.2023 - Current
EXERCISE FOR ALL, LIVESTRONG, AQUATICS, SPIN, HIIT INSTRUCTOR, PERSONAL TRAINER
YMCA Greendale Family Branch
12.2021 - 12.2023
CATERING, EVENTS & DISC GOLF DIRECTOR
Meadowbrook Orchards
12.2018 - 12.2022
CO-OWNER
C.A.S. Handmade inc.
12.2012 - 12.2018
ASSOCIATE STORE TEAM LEADER/SPECIALTY FOODS COORDINATOR
WHOLE FOODS MARKET
12.1998 - 12.2017
Core Certificate Program for Non Profit - Non Profit Leadership
Institute For Non Profit Practice
Landmark forum, and excellence seminar
Landmark Education
Dale Carnegie Strictly Business Immersion Course
Associate of Arts - Studies in French, Asian, Regional American and Early European Cuisine, beer, wine, Health and Nutrition, business and sanitation
Culinary Institute of America
Education
true
Training
- Whole Foods Professional Enhancement Program
- Dale Carnegie Strictly Business Immersion course
- Landmark education - Landmark forum, and excellence seminar