Jodi Kirk
Orlando,FL
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven Management Professional with extensive experience in guest experience management, program operations, and stakeholder collaboration within Disney Parks. Proven ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives, enhance efficiency, and foster meaningful relationships across diverse teams. Passionate about creating exceptional experiences for cast members and program participants, leveraging strong business acumen and a deep understanding of the Disney brand to drive engagement, inclusion, and operational success.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
F&B Guest Experience Manager
Walt Disney Company
Epcot Germany And Norway Pavilions
06.2021 - Current
- Lead a diverse team of hourly cast, successfully enhancing productivity and effectively managing complex situations
- Focused on driving business success and achieving desired outcomes, while building and nurturing lasting relationships with peers and cast
- Perform as a strategic conduit between stakeholders, guests, and German and Norwegian cultural representatives to create memorable exceptional experiences that embody the Disney standards and culture
- Develop and execute processes as lead scheduler and training liaison, utilizing a self-designed tracking system to transition cast members from front-of-house to tipped positions
- Update training packets and implement best practices to enhance efficiency and operational success
- Collaborate with various partners, such as Workload Management, Recruiting, ER, LR, Immigration and Compliance, Scheduling, Program Managers, and other key stakeholders, successfully managing the location's needs and ensuring consistency in the location
- Leveraging this collaborative approach to navigate unique situations and minimize risk
- Exhibit a deep comprehension of the Disney programs experience, successfully serving as a Program Champion
- Actively fostering engagement opportunities and organized various celebrations, including German Reunification Day and College Program networking events
- Honed ability to create memorable experiences for participants and cultivate a sense of community within the program
- Consult with scheduling team and peers to identify opportunities to reduce costs and increase profitability through data-driven initiatives, highlighted by a reduction of 10k labor hours in the 2024 fiscal year
Professional Intern Guest Experience Manager
Walt Disney Company
Epcot Coral Reef
01.2020 - 12.2020
- Led a team of hourly cast in a fast-paced changing environment, ensuring flexibility and alignment with company standards and brand promise
- Developed and implemented engagement initiatives, including recognition programs and enhanced training techniques to improve staff morale and performance
- Strengthened leadership, people management, and emotional intelligence skills through open transparent communication with mentors, peers, and cast
- Successfully navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 shutdown, including coordinating shutdown protocols, initiating new communication procedures, and addressing new business needs within the team
Coordinator and Trainer
Walt Disney Company
Polynesian Village Resort Ohana
04.2018 - 12.2020
- Collaborated with leadership and cast members to ensure efficient workflow and operation by using time management and effective communication skills
- Organized service workflow, including financial reporting, to maintain operational efficacy
- Revamped training operations by collaborating with the team, developing a series of training sessions, and creating networking opportunities to enhance cast development and engagement
- Led strategic, objective-driven meetings to assess and support complex cast needs, providing actionable feedback and solutions to enhance performance and engagement
College Program
Walt Disney Company
Grand Floridian Cafe
01.2017 - 12.2017
- Provided exceptional guest service, developing strong skills in handling high-volume situations
- Held three distinct positions: Assignor, eater, and General Teller, gaining increasing responsibility and deepening understanding of operations and the Disney company culture
- Developed financial acumen through the General Teller position, strengthening skills in financial management and transaction processing
Education
Associate of Arts - Technical Certificate Hospitality in Event Planning Management
Valencia College
Orlando, Florida07.2017
Master of Science - Organizational Leadership And Human Capital
University of Denver
Denver, CO11-2022
Bachelor of Science - Event Management
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL12-2019
Timeline
F&B Guest Experience Manager
Walt Disney Company
06.2021 - Current
Professional Intern Guest Experience Manager
Walt Disney Company
01.2020 - 12.2020
Coordinator and Trainer
Walt Disney Company
04.2018 - 12.2020
College Program
Walt Disney Company
01.2017 - 12.2017
Associate of Arts - Technical Certificate Hospitality in Event Planning Management
Valencia College
Master of Science - Organizational Leadership And Human Capital
University of Denver
Bachelor of Science - Event Management
University of Central Florida