Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
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Kara Smith

Grand Ledge

Summary

Resourceful and reliable professional with over ten years of diverse experience in administrative support, small business operations, team leadership, and customer service. Adept at remote work, project coordination, and cross-functional communication. Proven ability to adapt quickly, manage multiple priorities, and deliver excellent results in fast-paced environments. Seeing a remote position with long-term growth, strong benefits, and the opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven team.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

CEO/Owner

Michigan’s Homestead Herd
06.2025 - Current


  • Developed and marketed a natural product line; managed a full e-commerce operations.
  • Developed key operational initiatives to drive and maintain substantial business growth.
  • Achieved company growth by implementing strategic plans and streamlining operations.
  • Oversaw procurement, online sales, and repeat customer acquisition
  • Created and distributed holistic skin care kits

CEO/Owner

Smith’s Custom Kicks
01.2024 - Current
  • Managed end-to-end operations of custom merchandise business
  • Built customer base through creative marketing and quality service
  • Designed and fulfilled customized orders to increase client retention
  • Enhanced brand reputation with effective marketing campaigns and public relations efforts.
  • Established new revenue streams by identifying market opportunities and launching innovative products

Shift Manager, Lead Bartender

Dempsey’s Pub
01.2018 - 01.2020


  • Ability to work in high volume, fast paced environment while developing trusting relationships.
  • Handled escalated customer issues effectively, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills while upholding company values and standards.
  • Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and job responsibilities, ensuring seamless integration into the team.
  • Trained and mentored new employees to maximize team performance.
  • Promoted a positive work environment through open communication and constructive feedback.

Receptionist, Trainer, Server

Silver Lakes Country Club
01.2016 - 01.2018


  • Keeping mental records of large volumes of crowds to adequately provide service to each customer’s individual wants and needs.
  • Training for Intervention Procedures (TIPS) and Food Safety certified.
  • Resolved customer problems and complaints.
  • Greeted incoming visitors and customers professionally and provided friendly, knowledgeable assistance.
  • Handled cash transactions and maintained sales and payments records accurately.

FRG Leader/Unit Coordinator

U.S. Army
01.2014 - 01.2016


  • Delegate responsibilities within the volunteer organization.
  • Managed volunteer efforts by recruiting, training, and overseeing FRG volunteers for various events and activities.
  • Streamlined administrative processes through the development of standardized forms and checklists for use across various FRG functions.
  • Liaised with command leadership to address family needs effectively while maintaining confidentiality at all times.
  • Provided compassionate care for bereaved military families by offering tailored support services in coordination with appropriate agencies.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree - Science with a major in Business

Northwood University
07.2025

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Lansing Community College
07.2025

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Barstow Community College
01.2019

Industrial Trades: Electricity and Electronics

Kellogg Community College
01.2012

High School - undefined

Charlotte High School
01.2000

Skills

  • Team Leadership
  • Effective decision making
  • Operational excellence
  • Strategic visioning
  • Crisis management
  • Talent development
  • Succession planning
  • Organizational agility
  • Client relationship building
  • Operations management
  • Business development

Certification

  • MS Excel Specialist
  • 2025 Industry Champion: Developing Winning Strategies
  • Multiple NU Cyber Security Trainings

Timeline

CEO/Owner

Michigan’s Homestead Herd
06.2025 - Current

CEO/Owner

Smith’s Custom Kicks
01.2024 - Current

Shift Manager, Lead Bartender

Dempsey’s Pub
01.2018 - 01.2020

Receptionist, Trainer, Server

Silver Lakes Country Club
01.2016 - 01.2018

FRG Leader/Unit Coordinator

U.S. Army
01.2014 - 01.2016

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Lansing Community College

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Barstow Community College

Industrial Trades: Electricity and Electronics

Kellogg Community College

High School - undefined

Charlotte High School

Bachelor’s Degree - Science with a major in Business

Northwood University