Johnna Russell

Brief description on lapse in employment:

After leaving my job at Ozarc Gas, I had an opportunity for employment at the Veteran's Home in Anna, IL in the kitchen. Upon being told it was required to get the Covid vaccination, I respectfully turned down the position.

My mother-in-law was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer shortly after and I became the person who took her to all her appointments because her husband was no longer able to drive. My husband and I discussed the situation and we were blessed enough that I was able to continue to be her transportation/caregiver. Unfortunately, she lost her battle this past December.

Last year, my mother was also diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. I moved from Anna to Grand Tower to be closer to her. Fortunately, my Dad is still able to take her to her appointments, and help her with daily living. I still help when he needs a break, or is having a medical issue himself.

Managed the upload of driver tickets from five locations. Oversaw ticket processing, researching and rectifying discrepancies. Facilitated the submission of tickets to the billing department.

Scanned processed tickets into data system. Organized tickets into customer files.

Designed user-friendly manuals for new driver hires, streamlining the learning process for handheld scanners and tablets.

Managed check processing for accounts receivable, ensuring accuracy and compliance with financial protocols.

· Supervised kitchen staff, managed inventory control, made menu decisions, ordered and purchased supplies, ensured compliance with health codes, and performed opening and closing duties. Assisted in both front and back of the house operations.

· Managed company social media page for 4 yrs, creating and applying marketing materials, advertisements, and announcements while photographing social events.

Answered and logged all incoming calls to ensure accurate record-keeping and prompt response.

Contacted relevant personnel based on crisis severity to ensure timely response.

Referred consumers to suitable agencies for services to address specific needs.

Processed all consumer files for DCFS A-PAL program, Crisis Intervention, Veteran’s Crisis programs, and DCFS Differential Response program.

Collected and submitted consumer files to DCFS A-PAL Program Director.

Recorded, filed, and updated all consumer files. Digitally copied and entered all staff and consumer data into agency’s new database.

Distributed monthly consumer files and organized, ordered inventory and distributed supplies to staff

Calculated weekly timesheets for staff and corrected discrepancies for accuracy.

Corresponded daily with staff. Updated, copied, and filed company Resource Guide and Company Manuals. Kept hard copy paperwork filed and up-to-date. Kept inter-agency information up-to-date.

Researched, organized, and submitted grant/ funding possibilities to Executive Director. Participated in a grassroots campaign to save the agency.

Participated in agency event planning. Scheduled staff meetings and made reservations for out of town stays. Designed agency business cards.

Created and administered agency social media page. Photographed agency events.

Office liaison to off-site IT personnel. Loaded all necessary software to staff laptops and desktops. Updated staff phones after purchase. Performed troubleshooting for agency technical issues and contacted appropriate help.

• Supervised daily operations to ensure efficient workflow and optimal customer service.
• Trained and mentored new staff on store policies and best practices for enhanced performance.
• Monitored inventory levels, facilitating timely restocking and minimizing product shortages.
• Implemented promotional strategies to increase sales and improve customer engagement.
• Managed cash registers efficiently, ensuring accurate transactions, balancing drawers daily, and minimizing discrepancies.
• Managed opening and closing procedures and recommended changes to enhance efficiency of daily activities.
• Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
• Processed payments for credit and debit cards and returned proper change for cash transactions.

Resolved customer complaints promptly, enhancing overall shopping experience and loyalty.

Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.

Mentored new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure their success within the organization.

Implemented loss prevention tactics to deter thefts while maintaining a welcoming environment for all customers.

Managed cash registers efficiently, ensuring accurate transactions, balancing drawers daily, and minimizing discrepancies.

Crafted diverse cocktails and beverages, ensuring quality and consistency.

Managed bar inventory, optimizing stock levels and minimizing waste.

Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar area to uphold health standards.

Developed positive relationships with patrons, enhancing customer loyalty.

Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.

Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.

Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.

Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.