Katie Gross
Des Moines,IA
Summary
Operations-focused professional with a background in leadership, merchandising, payroll, and warehouse support. Brings value through training new associates, keeping inventory and order processes accurate, and delivering dependable service across fast-paced team environments that depend on organization, communication, and follow-through.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Merchandiser
PepsiCo
Des Moines, IA
01.2026 - Current
- Improved product presentation and inventory rotation through consistent merchandising of shelves, coolers, and displays.
- Built endcap and aisle displays for PepsiCo brands within store guidelines.
- Supported promotional execution, backroom organization, and order tracking through effective use of handheld devices.
- Strengthened account compliance by building rapport with store managers and customers and addressing store issues quickly.
- Maintained route service quality by completing account visits independently and following operating procedures and schedules.
- Performed route-based account servicing with minimal supervision, adhering to operating procedures and schedules.
- Trained new merchandisers on PepsiCo route standards and store setup procedures.
Warehouse Operator
3M
Forest City, IA
03.2021 - 12.2022
- Operated powered order-picking equipment to fill customer and branch orders.
- Received stock orders accurately and efficiently, then filled and shipped items.
- Executed packing and shipping tasks accurately, ensuring timely dispatch and adherence to quality standards.
- Used powered stocking equipment to receive materials and place inventory into stock.
- Collaborated with shipping and receiving teams to streamline workflow, enhance teamwork, and ensure timely product movement.
- Executed duties safely while following established policies and procedures.
- Trained new associates, fostering positive morale and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
Server/Bartender
HomeGrown
West Des Moines
04.2024 - 03.2026
- Cultivate genuine connections with guests, delivering personalized service and expertly managing orders through the POS system for seamless dining experiences.
- Delivered food and drinks promptly, enhancing guest satisfaction and overall dining experience.
- Recommended menu items and addressed guest inquiries, enriching dining choices and experiences.
- Monitored guest needs and responded proactively, by contributing to a seamless dining experience.
- Foster teamwork between front-of-house and kitchen staff, relaying orders accurately and swiftly to enhance overall guest satisfaction and operational flow.
- Accurately relay orders to the kitchen and bar using the POS system, minimizing errors.
- Process payments accurately, handle transactions, and maintain financial integrity.
- Assist in clearing and resetting tables, contributing to a clean and welcoming environment.
Payroll Specialist
Orenda Retirement
Remote
09.2024 - 04.2025
- Processed and managed accurate payroll for retirement plan clients, ensuring timely payment processing.
- Calculated and submitted 401(k) contributions, loan payments, and other retirement plan deductions, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Ensured compliance with retirement plan regulations, IRS, and DOL requirements, mitigating risks and safeguarding plan integrity.
- Reconciled retirement plan contributions with payroll records for accuracy
- Coordinated with plan administrators to resolve discrepancies in retirement accounts
- Generated comprehensive reports for clients and management on retirement plan contributions, providing insights for informed decision-making.
Assistant Manager, Customer Operations
Old Navy
Mason City, IA
12.2022 - 07.2023
- Led high-performance team, driving sales growth through strategic customer-centric initiatives and maximizing operational efficiencies.
- Implemented customer-focused strategies, driving sales and operational efficiency.
- Adapted team priorities to align with customer and business partner needs, enhancing service delivery.
- Provided coaching to team members to enhance their skills and performance., enhancing skills and boosting performance.
- Recruited and trained staff, fostering a high-performance culture and engagement.
- Oversaw new hire onboarding, streamlining orientation and training schedules for timely integration.
- Cultivated talent through comprehensive onboarding, consistent coaching, and meaningful feedback, fostering a culture of engagement and excellence.
- Spearheaded community involvement initiatives, enhancing Old Navy's local presence and building positive brand relationships.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration - Marketing
University of Central Oklahoma
Edmond, OK05-2016
Associate's Degree - Administrative Office Specialist
North Iowa Area Community College
Mason City, IA05-2012
Skills
- Merchandising strategies
- Inventory management
- Retail analytics
- Microsoft Office proficiency
- Leadership
- Decision-making
- Customer service excellence
- Team collaboration
- Time management and planning
- Flexibility and organization
- Communication and training
- Inventory management
Timeline
Merchandiser
PepsiCo
01.2026 - Current
Payroll Specialist
Orenda Retirement
09.2024 - 04.2025
Server/Bartender
HomeGrown
04.2024 - 03.2026
Assistant Manager, Customer Operations
Old Navy
12.2022 - 07.2023
Warehouse Operator
3M
03.2021 - 12.2022
Bachelor's Degree - Business Administration - Marketing
University of Central Oklahoma
Associate's Degree - Administrative Office Specialist
North Iowa Area Community College