John Norris
Chincoteague,VA
Summary
A manager, administrator and hands on laborer with rock solid reliability and a broad, comprehensive skill set that enables the wearing many hats and fulfilling of myriad responsibilities all under a single job title. Excelled in steering a near-bankrupt facility to profitability in the course of 2 years, showcasing a knack for interpersonal relations, creative problem solving, level-headed decision making, and arranging day to day details to work in favor of long term goals. Always learning and attentive to the world around me, unafraid to take good advice or adopt a different my point of view. I'll mop a floor or change a tire as effectively as I will navigate a delicate and difficult conversation with a long-standing client or upset staff member - and I'll do it all in service of achieving a larger desired outcome. I welcome the opportunity to demonstrate such capabilities at any new work environment I might find myself in.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Dog Daycare Manager
The Pooped Pooch
09.2022 - 06.2024
- Generated and maintained healthy, clean, safe and stimulating environment for the many dogs in our care.
- Oversaw all operations at a large and busy daycare and boarding facility, as well as managing outside dog walking and cat-care services throughout our larger local service area.
- Took in and cared for clients' dogs in my own home overnight and on weekends, providing transportation and a full range of day to day care.
- Maintained professional relationships with hundreds of clients via email, phone, text, and in-person exchanges.
- Managed a staff of up to 14 employees. Responsible for hiring, training, day to day supervision, conflict resolution and problem solving.
- Performed wide array of administrative responsibilities including but not limited to: payroll, invoicing, scheduling, service pricing, processing new clients, and dealing with outside contractors.
- Performed canine behavioral evaluations for prospective daycare enrollees.
- Monitored animal behavior and advised staff with the goal of preventing fights, injuries, illnesses and boredom among the dogs at the facility
- Monitored animals for signs of behavioral problems, illness, or injury and communicated concerns to owners.
- Performed basic wound care and other medical aid, seeking veterinary care when necessary.
- Helped see the company through a stage of near-bankruptcy at the height of the pandemic, returning it to consistent profitability by the summer of 2023.
Dog Walker, Pet-Sitter, Dog Daycare Attendant
The Pooped Pooch
03.2008 - 09.2022
- Fed, walked, and cared for dogs and cats during owners' absences and out-of-town trips.
- Developed strong personal relationships and trust with the animals under my care and their owners.
- Regularly pet sit for dogs in both my own home and clients' homes.
- Transported dogs safely and effectively to and from the company's dog-daycare facility, operating large vehicles in busy city traffic while adhering to time-sensitive schedules.
- Monitored and managed large groups of energetic dogs of all sizes, ages and breeds at the daycare; playing with and cleaning up after the them and intervening to prevent and break up fights when necessary.
- Greeted clients at the door of the daycare facility while escorting dogs into and out of the facility.
- Cleaning the facility thoroughly and extensively, keeping records and logs, maintaining positive and friendly relationships with coworkers.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Philosophy
Fordham University
The Bronx, NY05.2001
Skills
- Budgeting and finance
- Animal Nutrition
- Staff Management
- Facility Maintenance
- Customer Service
- Animal Training
- Written Communication
- Dependable and Responsible
- Interpersonal Skills
- Analytical Thinking
- Behavioral Observation
- Scheduling and Logistical Problem Solving
Timeline
Dog Daycare Manager
The Pooped Pooch
09.2022 - 06.2024
Dog Walker, Pet-Sitter, Dog Daycare Attendant
The Pooped Pooch
03.2008 - 09.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Philosophy
Fordham University