Kara Vaughn
Texas Backyard Leadership
Huntsville
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience in retail, excelling in customer service and team management. Proven ability to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty through effective problem-solving and communication. Skilled in inventory management and merchandising, fostering a collaborative environment that drives productivity and operational excellence.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Texas Backyard Leadership
HEB Grocery Store
05.2022 - 12.2025
- Managed daily operations of the plant department, including receiving shipments, processing invoices, maintaining inventory, working truck deliveries of hard goods
- Assembled furniture and grills according to company standards
- Oversaw plant care, maintenance, and overall department appearance
- Created and maintained effective merchandising and seasonal displays
- Trained new hires and provided ongoing coaching and development
- Supervised staff to ensure productivity, task completion, and adherence to department standards, including remote oversight on days off.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
Customer Service Rep for General Merchandise and D
HEB Grocery Store
03.2021 - 05.2022
- Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
- Managed high-stress situations effectively, maintaining professionalism under pressure while resolving disputes or conflicts.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and providing accurate information.
- Responded to customer requests for products, services, and company information.
- Efficiently processed and organized backstock by down-stacking and stocking incoming deliveries. Trained on and utilized POS systems, Zebra handheld devices, and inventory replenishment systems. Provided customer service support, completed store resets, and accurately implemented planograms to ensure proper product placement and visual merchandising.
- Developed strong product knowledge to provide informed recommendations based on individual customer needs.
- Contributed to sales growth by upselling products and services based on individual customer requirements.
Customer Service Associate
HEB Grocery Store
01.2021 - 03.2022
- Maintained a high level of product knowledge, providing accurate information to customers.
- Actively listened to customers, handled concerns quickly and escalated major issues to supervisor.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by effectively addressing inquiries and resolving issues.
- Provided courteous customer service by assisting shoppers with bagging groceries and transporting purchases to vehicles
- Maintained organized and visually appealing aisles through front-facing and restocking merchandise
- Returned misplaced items to their correct locations, ensuring store accuracy and efficiency
- Supported overall store operations by responding promptly to customer and team needs
Server
Cafe Texan
09.2018 - 07.2020
- Delivered high-quality customer service in a fast-paced, historic dining environment while maintaining the café’s traditional standards and guest experience
- Managed multiple tables efficiently, handling orders, payments, and special requests with accuracy and professionalism
- Communicated effectively with kitchen staff to ensure timely service and guest satisfaction
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of menu items, daily specials, and café history to enhance guest engagement
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining areas in compliance with health and safety standards
- Handled cash and card transactions responsibly, ensuring accuracy and accountability
- Resolved customer concerns calmly and professionally to maintain a positive dining experience
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Built rapport with a diverse clientele, including tourists and regular patrons, by providing attentive and personable service
Education
High School Diploma -
Huntsville High School
Huntsville, TXSkills
- Friendly, positive attitude
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Team management
- Multitasking
- Organization and time management
- Supervision and leadership
- Excellent communication
Timeline
Texas Backyard Leadership
HEB Grocery Store
05.2022 - 12.2025
Customer Service Rep for General Merchandise and D
HEB Grocery Store
03.2021 - 05.2022
Customer Service Associate
HEB Grocery Store
01.2021 - 03.2022
Server
Cafe Texan
09.2018 - 07.2020
High School Diploma -
Huntsville High School