Jennifer Powell
South Mills,NC
Summary
Dynamic HR & Operations Professional with extensive experience in full-lifecycle talent management, workforce development, and operational excellence. Proven track record of modernizing workflows through continuous process improvement while ensuring strict compliance with employment standards and corporate policies. Trusted advisor to senior leadership on organizational development, talent mobility, employee relations, and offboarding strategies that drive engagement and business outcomes.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Resources Specialist
United States Army
Fort Eustis, Virginia
08.2021 - Current
- Advised commanders and Soldiers on HR procedures
- Prepared enlistment, promotion, and separation paperwork.
- Verified soldier data for accuracy and completeness to ensure compliance with personnel regulations.
- Developed and documented HR procedures to refine processes and drive compliance with policies.
- Coordinated training and development programs to improve employee skills and facilitate career advancement.
- Supported Army personnel actions and maintained service records.
- Updated personnel systems and official correspondence.
- Facilitated in-processing and out-processing for new personnel to ensure smooth transitions.
- Protected human resource information to maintain employee trust and safeguard operational integrity.
General Manager
Steak N Shake
Columbus, Georgia
08.2019 - 08.2021
- Coordinated labor scheduling, staffing, and coverage for front-of-house and kitchen teams to ensure optimal service levels.
- Streamlined inventory ordering, stock control, and vendor coordination for restaurant supplies, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
- Analyzed sales reports, budgets, and cash controls to inform strategic decisions for Steak N Shake operations.
- Trained and coached managers and team members on service and operational procedures.
- Monitored food safety, sanitation, and quality standards across Steak N Shake service areas.
- Implemented company policies and productivity standards across restaurant departments.
- Established and maintained effective communication with staff members to ensure efficient operations.
- Resolved guest concerns quickly to maintain consistent Steak N Shake customer service.
Assistant General Manager
Steak N Shake
Columbus , GA
08.2018 - 08.2019
- - Trained shift leaders and crew members on guest service standards and food safety procedures.
- - Managed labor schedules to meet daily staffing requirements and support business needs.
- - Maintained compliance with employment laws and workplace regulations.
- - Worked with general manager to build and carry out strategic plans.
- - Supported annual profit goals by improving processes and strengthening staff knowledge of best practices.
- - Built performance-driven environment centered on teamwork, accountability, and long-term business success.
- - Identified cost-saving opportunities and process improvements to support efficient operations.
Kitchen Manager
Steak N Shake
Columbus, Georgia
08.2017 - 08.2018
- Enforced food safety, sanitation, and health code compliance.
- Trained kitchen staff on prep, cooking, and cleaning procedures.
- Monitored inventory, ordering, and stock rotation for fresh ingredients.
- Supervised food production processes ensuring high quality standards were met throughout each stage of preparation.
- Worked with vendors to establish strong relationships and maintain proper inventory supplies.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner while maintaining a positive attitude towards guests at all times.
- Managed employee relations by providing guidance on job duties as well as disciplinary actions when needed.
Cashier
Steak N Shake
Columbus, Georgia
02.2016 - 08.2017
- Operated POS system for dine-in and drive-thru orders.
- Kept counter, dining, and checkout areas clean and organized.
- Completed additional duties as assigned by management.
- Delivered attentive customer service through active listening and engagement.
- Trained new team members on cash register use, stock procedures, and customer service.
- Promoted loyalty programs while providing strong service to support sales.
Education
MBA - Project Management
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA05-2027
Bachelor of Science - Human Resources Management
University of Maryland Global Campus
Hyattsville, MD05-2025
High School Diploma -
Central High School
Phenix City, AL05-2016
Skills
- Human resources management
- Talent acquisition strategies
- Employee relations and engagement
- HR compliance and regulations
- Performance management systems
- Payroll administration processes
- Time and labor management
- Training and mentoring programs
- Management development initiatives
- Project management skills
- Workforce planning techniques
- Staff management practices
- Employee retention strategies
- Conflict resolution skills
- Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
- Communication excellence
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Leadership and communication
Accomplishments
- Army Achievement Medal - Company-level Soldier of Quarter
- Army Achievement Medal - Battalion-level Soldier of the Quarter
- Army Achievement Medal - Brigade-level Soldier of the Quarter
- Army Commendation Medal - Overseas Support
- Dean's List - 7-time recipient
Timeline
Human Resources Specialist
United States Army
08.2021 - Current
General Manager
Steak N Shake
08.2019 - 08.2021
Assistant General Manager
Steak N Shake
08.2018 - 08.2019
Kitchen Manager
Steak N Shake
08.2017 - 08.2018
Cashier
Steak N Shake
02.2016 - 08.2017
MBA - Project Management
Liberty University
Bachelor of Science - Human Resources Management
University of Maryland Global Campus
High School Diploma -
Central High School