Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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JEN HARDEN-FINN

Oak Park,IL

Summary

I'm a dedicated professional with 15+ years of experience in volunteer management, banking, and merchandising. I bring a wealth of expertise that allows me to adapt, lead, and drive meaningful growth. My diverse background helps me build strong relationships, solve problems creatively, and deliver lasting results across industries.


Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Volunteer Manager and AmeriCorps Program Director

Chicago HOPES for Kids
09.2021 - Current

Volunteer Management:

  • Develop and implement a volunteer engagement strategy to recruit and retain volunteers.
  • Manage onboarding, training, scheduling for volunteers.
  • Foster relationships with community partners and educational institutions to strengthen volunteer networks.
  • Track volunteer hours, impact, and feedback to continuously improve experiences.

AmeriCorps Program Leadership:

  • Oversee all aspects of the AmeriCorps program, including recruitment, placement, and compliance with AmeriCorps policies.
  • Provide guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for AmeriCorps members.
  • Serve as the liaison between AmeriCorps members and Program Site locations ensuring program goals are met.
  • Maintain records, reports, and overall grant management.

AVP, Branch Manager

PNC Bank
09.2018 - 04.2021
  • Implemented sales strategies, achieving an average annual branch P&L growth of 15%.
  • Developed and nurtured strong relationships with business customers, offering strategic financial advice.
  • Organized community workshops promoting financial literacy and wellness.
  • Collaborated with local organizations to enhance PNC's visibility within the community.

Director of Merchandising

Zorch International
01.2006 - 06.2007
  • Presented sales and merchandising proposals to customers and managed projects from concept to completion.
  • Influenced cross-functional teams for better collaboration and streamlined execution of merchandising initiatives.
  • Regularly reviewed competitor activity to ensure the company maintained a competitive edge in the market.
  • Established successful vendor relationships to negotiate favorable terms and pricing.

Sr. Custom Branded Merchandise Manager

North American Corporation
12.2004 - 11.2005
  • Cultivated relationships with new and existing clients, driving customer satisfaction.
  • Worked on RFPs and negotiated vendor agreements for improved pricing and quality.
  • Boosted sales performance by effectively managing merchandise assortments and inventory levels.

Director of Merchandising

B2uSolutions/ Rawlings
08.2001 - 09.2004
  • Increased sales and profitability by developing and implementing strategic merchandising plans.
  • Developed comprehensive seasonal strategies that aligned with company goals and consumer demands.
  • Regularly reviewed competitor activity to ensure the company maintained a competitive edge in the market.
  • Analyzed sales performance data to identify areas of opportunity for growth or improvement.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with vendors to maintain and improve levels of customer service.

Education

Masters of Science - Integrated Marketing Communications

Roosevelt University

Bachelor of Arts - Journalism

Northern Illinois University

Skills

  • MS Office Suite
  • Google Workspace
  • Volunteer Matters and Volgistics
  • Certified in CPR/AED
  • Event planning
  • Skilled in project management, vendor negotiations, and strategic planning
  • Interpersonal communication skills
  • Client relationship management
  • Volunteer orientation and onboarding
  • Program management
  • Reliability
  • Adaptability and flexibility

Timeline

Volunteer Manager and AmeriCorps Program Director

Chicago HOPES for Kids
09.2021 - Current

AVP, Branch Manager

PNC Bank
09.2018 - 04.2021

Director of Merchandising

Zorch International
01.2006 - 06.2007

Sr. Custom Branded Merchandise Manager

North American Corporation
12.2004 - 11.2005

Director of Merchandising

B2uSolutions/ Rawlings
08.2001 - 09.2004

Bachelor of Arts - Journalism

Northern Illinois University

Masters of Science - Integrated Marketing Communications

Roosevelt University