Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Jeff Knieja

Palm Harbor,FL

Summary

With a proven track record at Pinellas Ponds & Waterfalls and the City of Dunedin, excel in operational excellence and effective decision-making. leadership significantly enhanced customer satisfaction and safety, showcasing ability to strategize and communicate effectively. Skilled in contract negotiation and fostering client relationships, I drive sales growth and operational improvements. Every year sales have increased, along with customer base. Sold millions of dollars of water features throughout the years, ranked multiple years as top 100 contractor in sales of water features in the world, and have been recognized by leading companies in the industry. For the last 20 years have fostered lifetime relationships with previous and current customers, and business associates.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience

Work History

CEO/Owner

Pinellas Ponds & Waterfalls
07.2004 - Current
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
  • Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
  • Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
  • Successfully navigated challenging economic conditions by making informed decisions that protected the business's financial stability.
  • Generated revenues yearly and effectively capitalized on industry growth.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.

Fire Lieutenant/Firefighter Lieutenant/Paramedic Supervisor

City of Dunedin
04.2003 - 04.2023
  • Inspected apparatus, equipment, grounds, and stations for proper order and condition.
  • Prepared reports of fires, equipment and personnel.
  • Increased firefighter safety by enforcing strict adherence to department policies and procedures during emergency operations.
  • Mentored new firefighters, fostering a positive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.
  • Created comprehensive pre-incident planning documents to facilitate efficient responses in high-risk environments.
  • Conducted thorough post-incident analysis sessions.
  • Conducted periodic firefighter written performance evaluations and completed written recommendations on probationary firefighters.
  • Established effective communication channels between command staff and frontline responders during high-pressure incidents, ensuring clear directives and information sharing.
  • Directed work of 12-15 firefighters engaged in extinguishing fires.
  • Supervised cleaning and maintenance of buildings, rooms and equipment.
  • Coordinated large-scale emergency exercises, simulating realistic scenarios to assess department readiness and identify areas requiring improvement.
  • Responded to emergency medical calls to perform lifesaving procedures and other emergency medical services.
  • Compiled and maintained log books, run reports and training records.
  • Led team in fighting fires and exercised considerable judgment in deciding best way to extinguish based on type of fuel and environment.
  • Performed life-saving procedures during medical emergencies, administering CPR and first aid as needed.
  • Collaborated with fellow firefighters to execute efficient firefighting strategies, mitigating property damage and loss of life.
  • Documented emergency calls and equipment maintenance to enable tracking history and maintain accurate records.
  • Conducted search and rescue operations during natural disasters, locating trapped individuals and providing assistance as needed.

Education

Master Certified Aquascape Contractor - Sales, Installation of Large Projects

Aquascape Inc. Academy.
Saint Charles, IL

Firefighter I &II - Fire Science

St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FL
03-2003

Paramedic/EMT - Paramedicine

McHenry County College
Crystal Lake, IL
01-2001

Fire Science

McHenry County College
Crystal Lake, IL
01-1999

Skills

  • Effective Decision Making
  • Operational Excellence
  • Customer Focus
  • Strategic Visioning
  • Sales Growth
  • Effective Communicator and Public Speaker
  • Contract Negotiation
  • Business Consulting
  • Service Delivery Oversight
  • Project Oversight
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Sales expertise
  • Product Knowledge
  • Architectual and Engineer drawings
  • Client Relationship Management
  • Direct Sales
  • Sales processes
  • CRM Software
  • Review of contracts
  • Familiar with CAD & DWG
  • Sales presentation
  • Contact follow-up
  • Excellent communication skills

Timeline

CEO/Owner

Pinellas Ponds & Waterfalls
07.2004 - Current

Fire Lieutenant/Firefighter Lieutenant/Paramedic Supervisor

City of Dunedin
04.2003 - 04.2023

Master Certified Aquascape Contractor - Sales, Installation of Large Projects

Aquascape Inc. Academy.

Firefighter I &II - Fire Science

St. Petersburg College

Paramedic/EMT - Paramedicine

McHenry County College

Fire Science

McHenry County College

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Jeff Knieja