Jessica Bencher
Springfield,IL
Summary
Customer-oriented General Manager with years of experience focused on increasing revenues and expanding margin. Adaptive and deadline-oriented, I consistently execute and complete multiple projects in high-stress environments. In addition to my strong managerial acumen, I bring a hands-on approach to leadership, actively engaging with cross-functional teams to streamline processes and enhance overall productivity for my next career choice.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Manager
Ascend Wellness
07.2023 - Current
- Increases overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
- Manages a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Cultivates strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Implements targeted promotions based on historical business revenue data, resulting in optimized sales and heightened customer engagement.
- Conducts performance discussions with staff members to address areas of improvement, recognize achievements, and collaboratively establish goals for professional development.
- Manages the preparation of deposits, ensuring accuracy and compliance with financial protocols.
- Executes and maintains strict compliance protocols in accordance with local and state regulations for the destruction of products.
- Manages end-to-end payroll processes for a team of 30 employees, ensuring accurate and timely disbursement of salaries and benefits.
- Demonstrates proficiency in maintaining strict compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Acts as a liaison between employees and HR, providing guidance on conflict resolution, performance management, and policy interpretation.
- Actively participates in industry conferences and workshops with the Regional directors to stay updated on evolving regulatory landscapes.
- Oversees procurement of store supplies and accessories as General Manager, optimizing cost-effective strategies and ensuring timely stock replenishment.
- Implements and maintains a robust training accountability report, ensuring all employees completed a minimum of 8 hours of annual training.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Maximize efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
- Provides strategic oversight of marketing and promotional campaigns to keep campaigns aligned with overall goals and objectives.
Assistant General Manager
Ascend Wellness
11.2021 - 07.2023
- Oversaw inventory management processes to maintain proper stock levels and minimize loss of revenue.
- Implemented staff accountability programs that improved service quality and increased customer loyalty.
- Collaborated with the General Manager on marketing initiatives to increase brand awareness and drive sales growth.
- Enhanced communication among team members through regular meetings, promoting an open dialogue about challenges and opportunities for improvement.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and opportunities for menu expansion or modification based on customer preferences.
- Assisted in the recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process for new employees to build a skilled workforce committed to excellence in service delivery.
- Analyzed customer feedback data to identify areas of improvement and develop solutions.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures to improve customer service and satisfaction.
- Trained new employees on proper protocols and customer service standards.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
Floor Supervisor
Ascend Wellness
06.2020 - 11.2021
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by effectively managing floor operations and addressing concerns promptly.
- Streamlined daily processes for increased efficiency, implementing new procedures and best practices.
- Optimized employee performance by providing constructive and positive feedback.
- Boosted sales through effective merchandising strategies and attention to product placement on the floor.
- Ensured store cleanliness and safety with consistent inspections and proactive maintenance tasks.
- Mentored new hires in company policies, job responsibilities, and expectations, ensuring successful integration into the team.
- Collaborated with management team for strategic planning purposes, offering valuable insights based on firsthand experience at the floor level.
- Resolved conflicts among staff members diplomatically, maintaining a harmonious working environment conducive to productivity.
- Monitored employee adherence to company guidelines regarding dress code, punctuality, and workplace conduct for consistency across the team.
- Met with management to discuss work plans and develop enhancements and strategies to achieve operational objectives.
- Improved patient experience by implementing efficient dispensary operations and enhancing customer service.
- Reduced wait times for customers by implementing a streamlined check-in process and improving workflow efficiency.
- Trained employees on proper cannabis handling procedures, resulting in higher product quality and customer satisfaction.
Restaurant Supervisor
Hand Of Fate
07.2015 - 03.2020
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to develop new menu items that boosted sales revenue.
- Increased repeat business through excellent customer service, maintaining strong relationships with patrons.
- Supervised daily cash handling procedures, ensuring accurate accounting records and minimizing discrepancies.
- Maintained compliance with state and local regulations pertaining to food safety and sanitation practices.
- Provided ongoing coaching for employees, nurturing professional growth opportunities within the organization.
- Promoted a positive work environment with proactive conflict resolution strategies and team-building activities.
- Coordinated catering services for private events, delivering memorable experiences while maximizing profits.
- Fostered an inclusive atmosphere with open communication channels for all employees to voice concerns or suggestions freely.
- Carefully interviewed, selected, trained, and supervised staff.
- Tracked daily sales transactions and invoices for accurate and updated financial reporting.
- Reconciled cash and credit card transactions to maintain accurate records.
- Motivated staff to perform at peak efficiency and quality.
Education
Associate of Science - Psychology
University of Illinois
Springfield, ILSkills
- Product Branding Marketing
- Contract Negotiations
- Customer Relationship Management
- Quality Management
- Account Management
- Operations Oversight
- Financial Administration
- P&L Management
- Schedule Management
- Time Management
- Team Player
- 90 WPM
Accomplishments
- Collaborated with team of four around the Illinois region in the development of the new software, Dispense.
Certification
- Medical Agent-in-Charge Professional License - Issued June, 2020 from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Medical Cannabis Dispensary Agent Professional License - Issued March 2020 from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
Timeline
General Manager
Ascend Wellness
07.2023 - Current
Assistant General Manager
Ascend Wellness
11.2021 - 07.2023
Floor Supervisor
Ascend Wellness
06.2020 - 11.2021
Restaurant Supervisor
Hand Of Fate
07.2015 - 03.2020
Associate of Science - Psychology
University of Illinois