Karen Merritt
Crofton,MD
Summary
Entrepreneurial Owner known for outstanding productivity and efficiency in task completion. Possess specialized skills in strategic planning, financial management, and team leadership. Excel in communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, ensuring successful business operations and growth.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
Karen’s Essentials
Baltimore, MD
02.2021 - Current
- Utilizes shipping partners like Shippo to optimize shipping routes to reduce costs
- Optimized receiving operations, ensuring accurate inventory counts and efficient restocking
- Utilizes Crafty Base and Shopify management systems to track and monitor raw material shipments, maintain accurate records, and resolve discrepancies promptly, ensuring smooth workflow continuity
- Coordinates customer fulfillment processes, including tracking orders, verifying shipments, and conducting product quality control to ensure timely and accurate deliveries
- Handles bookkeeping tasks such as invoice tracking, reconciliation, and managing non-product purchases and bank deposits in QuickBooks
Client Service Manager
HWP Insurance
Annapolis, MD
08.2018 - 02.2020
- Managed day-to-day client benefits and renewal proposal preparation through Salesforce
- Managed a book of business with over 35 clients
- Acted as the primary contact for clients, managing renewals, open enrollment meetings, terminations, and enrollments.
Client Service Manager
Potomac Basin Group
Beltsville, MD
10.2017 - 08.2018
- Managed day-to-day client benefits and renewal proposal preparation through Salesforce
- Managed a book of business with over 35 clients
- Acted as the primary contact for clients, managing renewals, open enrollment meetings, terminations, and enrollments.
Human Resources, Benefits, Payroll Coordinator and Office Manager
Woodstream Christian Academy
Mitchellville, MD
03.2004 - 10.2017
- Developed policies, procedures, and staff manuals
- Administered benefits programs for life, health, dental, and disability insurances
- Reviewed vendor invoices and resolved disputes
- Prepared and processed bi-monthly payroll through Paychex for 100+ employees
- Oversaw all administrative functions to ensure smooth office operations and a productive work environment
- Managed incoming calls, mail distribution, and provided comprehensive administrative support to leadership and team members.
Education
Terry Parker High School
Jacksonville, FLPrince George’s Community College
Largo, MDSkills
- QuickBooks
- Bookkeeping
- Salesforce CRM
- Customer relationship management
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Shippo
- Outlook
- Paychex
- Payroll processing
- CRM Management
- Verbal and written communication
- Human Resource Management
- Customer Relations
- Craftybase
- Inventory
- Manufacturing management
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Owner
Karen’s Essentials
02.2021 - Current
Client Service Manager
HWP Insurance
08.2018 - 02.2020
Client Service Manager
Potomac Basin Group
10.2017 - 08.2018
Human Resources, Benefits, Payroll Coordinator and Office Manager
Woodstream Christian Academy
03.2004 - 10.2017
Terry Parker High School
Prince George’s Community College
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