KAREN THEISS
Columbus,OH
Summary
Strategic director with proven ability to enhance operational efficiency and drive business growth. Expertise in executing business strategies across diverse units, leading to improved financial outcomes. Strong understanding of market trends and corporate finance, with a history of leading productive teams and managing budgets effectively. Skilled in networking to drive growth initiatives and maximizing brand outreach through targeted marketing efforts.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager of Sales
Pulte Group
Columbus, Ohio
07.2024 - Current
- Focused on customer-first approach, exceeding service goals and achieving annual sales goal of $468,000,000 in 2025.
- Developed and executed strategic sales plans aligned with division goals, driving revenue growth and market share in a competitive new home market.
- Led and coached high-performing sales team of 35+ members across 28 communities, consistently achieving or exceeding sales and customer satisfaction targets.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with construction, marketing, land development and procurement to align product, pricing, inventory management, and customer experience.
- Analyzed sales performance metrics and market trends to identify opportunities, refine pricing strategies and maximize profitability.
Senior Director of Catering and Off Premise
Condado Tacos
Columbus, OH
01.2019 - 07.2024
- Grew catering sales from 0% to 12% of total restaurant sales over a four-year period, while achieving a 35% year-over-year growth in catering sales at comparable stores.
- Developed catering and off premise sector of the business from 4 locations to 51 locations in 4 years.
- Led team of 36 in catering operations, achieving sales goals, managing budgets, and executing large-scale corporate events that enhanced client satisfaction.
- Oversaw catering operations budgets and expenses, maintaining profitable margins and achieving sustained 46% EBITA through strategic financial management.
- Collaborated with DSP to develop targeted sales and marketing strategies, increasing off premise sales to 35% of overall revenue.
Director of Operations
Levy
Columbus, OH
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Created strategic plans, and budgets for over 200 conferences, contributing to annual revenues totaling $88 million.
- Led a team of 150+ employees that achieved 20% increase in overall customer satisfaction scores within the first year.
- Streamlined supply chain management, resulting in a 22% reduction in inventory holding.
- Managed event operations for Kentucky International Convention Center and Columbus Convention Center, coordinating logistics for regional, national, and international conferences to ensure seamless execution.
- Traveled extensively to inaugurate new convention centers and organize initial series of national events, establishing foundational operational protocols.
General Manager
Middle West Spirits
Columbus, OH
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Achieved profitability within the first year of operation, surpassing projected revenue goals by 23%.
- Maintained food and labor costs below industry standards achieving a 25% decrease in COGS in the first 2 quarters.
- Managed a diverse team of 32 restaurant employees, 2 distillery and warehouse workers, 8 tour guides, and 5 retail staff to ensure smooth operations.
- Fostered a positive and inclusive workplace, resulting in a turnover rate of less than 5% during the first two years of the business's new phase.
- Established strategic partnerships with local suppliers to enhance quality and consistency.
- Designed floorplan and kitchen layout, managed food and beverage COGS while adhering to budget.
- Led development of new phase of Middle West Spirits, collaborating with construction and design team.
Education
Bachelors Degree - Advertising
Michigan State University
MI01.2006
Skills
- Leadership development and team management
- Catering and operations management
- Multi-unit management (50)
- Client relationship and sales training
- KPI and budget analysis
- Strategic planning and industry analysis
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Results-oriented leadership
Timeline
General Manager of Sales
Pulte Group
07.2024 - Current
Senior Director of Catering and Off Premise
Condado Tacos
01.2019 - 07.2024
Director of Operations
Levy
01.2017 - 01.2019
General Manager
Middle West Spirits
01.2015 - 01.2018
Bachelors Degree - Advertising
Michigan State University