KEVIN LOOKER
Withee,WI
Summary
Detail-oriented operations leader with extensive experience in technical support and project management. Coordinates workflows to resolve customer issues and reduce turnaround times. Implements process enhancements to improve operational efficiency and service quality across cross-functional teams.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales & Technical Support
Joe's Refrigeration
Withee, WI
07.2020 - Current
- Managed project workflows from initial sale through installation training and ongoing support.
- Provided remote and on-site technical support to uphold high customer satisfaction.
- Tracked customer issues and system performance for timely resolutions.
- Coordinated with customers, vendors, and internal teams to maintain schedules and installations.
- Facilitated daily operations for automated milking and herd management installations.
- Maintained accurate documentation and service records for compliance and knowledge sharing.
- Identified operational issues and recommended improvements to enhance service efficiency.
Plant Manager
Midwest Manufacturing
Eau Claire, WI
09.2014 - 03.2020
- Directed daily operations for 320 retail locations, ensuring accurate order processing and timely delivery.
- Led process improvement initiatives, increasing productivity and reducing operational costs.
- Coordinated workflows among production, purchasing, distribution, and shipping teams to enhance efficiency.
- Monitored inventory levels and shipping activities to minimize delays and prevent stock shortages.
- Managed scheduling, staffing, and workflow priorities for a team of up to 35 employees.
- Maintained operational records and documentation to ensure compliance with business standards.
- Assisted in procurement planning and inventory allocation to meet production demands and customer needs.
- Applied lean strategies to implement enhancements that promoted efficiency and reduced costs.
Buyer
Menard, Inc.
Eau Claire, WI
04.2011 - 09.2014
- Managed purchasing operations, pricing, and inventory across 320 retail locations.
- Tracked sales trends and operational data to drive strategic purchasing decisions.
- Maintained accurate product pricing and inventory records to support data integrity.
- Collaborated with vendors and internal departments to resolve order discrepancies.
- Coordinated product launches by overseeing setup documentation and inventory availability.
- Assisted in reporting and operational analysis to enhance purchasing efficiency.
- Negotiated pricing and terms with suppliers to maximize cost effectiveness.
- Prepared and presented reports on purchasing activities, savings achieved, and challenges faced.
Outside Yard / Shipping & Receiving Manager
Menards
Eau Claire, WI
08.2005 - 04.2011
- Oversaw daily shipping, receiving, and inventory operations across nine departments.
- Coordinated freight schedules to enhance workflow efficiency and ensure inventory accuracy.
- Supervised and trained 40 employees along with three assistant managers on operational standards.
- Maintained accurate shipping records, ensuring compliance with established procedures.
- Facilitated cross-department coordination to optimize communication and improve workflow.
- Achieved recognition for top operational performance over three consecutive years.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration -
University of Wisconsin
Eau Claire, WI08-2005
Skills
- Project management
- Operations support and workflow coordination
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Customer and vendor communication
- Process improvement strategies
- Operational efficiency
- Task and data tracking
- Inventory and order processing
- Scheduling and team coordination
- Reporting and documentation
- Record maintenance and attention to detail
- Problem solving and technical assistance
- Remote support
Timeline
Sales & Technical Support
Joe's Refrigeration
07.2020 - Current
Plant Manager
Midwest Manufacturing
09.2014 - 03.2020
Buyer
Menard, Inc.
04.2011 - 09.2014
Outside Yard / Shipping & Receiving Manager
Menards
08.2005 - 04.2011
Bachelor of Business Administration -
University of Wisconsin