KAYLA MARIE ELLISON
CINCINNATI,OHIO
Summary
Customer-oriented General Manager with 10 years of experience focused on increasing revenues and expanding margin. Adaptive and deadline-oriented consistently executes and completes multiple projects in high-stress environments. Meticulous leader and strategic planner with comprehensive managerial acumen, offering vision and motivational acumen.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
West Elm/WSI
02.2018 - Current
- Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
- Analyzed market trends/data to identify potential opportunities for business growth within existing or emerging markets successfully.
- Spearheading initiatives that resulted in an 80% increase in business growth.
- Led change management initiatives to support organizational growth and maintain alignment with evolving priorities.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Developed high-performing teams through effective coaching, mentoring, and performance management strategies.
- West Elm Local Programming: Host monthly events in efforts to connect BIPOC businesses of Cincinnati with west elm consumer base and drive overall cultural awareness.
- Artist in Residency Program: Sourcing BIPOC artist to produce a new collection for the West Elm retail assortment. Help in developing exposure and collaboration with key stake holders and industry leaders.
Corporate Recruiter
Kroger
09.2016 - 02.2018
- Placed advertisements, evaluated applicant credentials, conducted initial interviews and pre-screening assessments.
- Continuously refined recruitment strategies by staying informed of industry best practices and incorporating innovative tools and technologies, resulting in a 30% increase in candidate quality and a 25% reduction in time-to-hire.
- Increased the offer acceptance rate by 40% through conducting thorough pre-screening interviews and effectively showcasing company culture and benefits.
Assistant Store Manager
West Elm/WSI
10.2012 - 09.2016
- Mentored new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure their success within the organization.
- Supported senior managers and department leaders by completing projects and problem resolution under tight budgets and schedule demands.
- Enhanced team collaboration by 35% through regular meetings, clear communication, and shared goal setting, leading to a 20% increase in project completion rates and a 15% boost in overall team satisfaction.
- Championed continuous improvement initiatives within the organization, leading to increased operational efficiencies and overall productivity gains.
Education
Master of Arts - Social Entrepreneurship & Change
PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY
LOS ANGELES, CA05.2018
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KY01.2013
Skills
- Verbal and written communication
- Team training and development
- Organizational Development
- Innovation and Creativity
- Project planning and development
- Strategic Planning
- Cultural Competency
- Instructional Leadership
Additional Information
Mercy Montessori DEIB Committee- Contributing to the DEI Committee's efforts to develop and implement a comprehensive DEI Strategic Plan focused on enhancing diverse recruiting, improving employee retention, and advancing teacher training.
Matter Print- Led the proposal for Matter Print to establish a non-governmental organization in Jaipur, India, focused on creating a sustainable textile recycling factory. This initiative aims to provide employment for women, promote fair trade, and support environmental sustainability.
Timeline
General Manager
West Elm/WSI
02.2018 - Current
Corporate Recruiter
Kroger
09.2016 - 02.2018
Assistant Store Manager
West Elm/WSI
10.2012 - 09.2016
Master of Arts - Social Entrepreneurship & Change
PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
NORTHERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY
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