Kiara Martin
Freeport,IL
Summary
Dependable and hardworking professional with experience in administrative support, customer service, food service, and insurance. Strong communication and multitasking skills with the ability to work in fast-paced environments while providing excellent service. Known for staying organized, handling responsibilities efficiently, and creating positive experiences for customers and clients.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Secretary To Deans
Freeport High School
08.2023 - Current
- Managed daily office operations, ensuring smooth communication among staff and students and deans..
- Answered phone calls, emails, and handled correspondence in a professional manner
- Prepared reports, documents, and presentations as needed for deans
- Maintained organized filing systems (both digital and paper)
- Communicated important updates and information to students
- Supported student concerns by listening and helping resolve issues or referring them appropriately
Claims Specialist (Finance)
Newell Brands
10.2020 - 07.2023
- Reviewed invoices shortages, returns and rebate promotions.
- Worked closely with a range of programs such as Microsoft Excel.
- Collaborated with several departments investigate, research & resolve customer deductions in a timely manner.
- Established & maintained good connections with customers such as Ace Hardware, Amazon, Costco, Target, etc.
- Determined if customer deductions would be credited or billed back.
Customer Service Representative
Sentry Insurance
02.2017 - 10.2020
- Handled inbound calls and assisted customers with inquiries such as billing concerns, payment procedures & product knowledge.
- Exercised calm & professional behavior to de-escalate irate situations.
- Evaluated customer account information to asses and determine best solutions.
- Connected customers to appropriate individuals or departments.
Waitress / Bartender
Logan’s Bar & Grill
07.2018 - 11.2018
- Provided friendly customer service, exceptional dining experience and built great connections with customers.
- Maximized sales by suggesting food & drink options based on each customer’s unique customer preferences.
- Calculated charges, issued table checks and processed payments.
- Stocked server areas with supplies before, during and after shifts to boost staff performance.
- Cleaned, sanitized and organized food speed racks, bins and dry storage racks to help prevent potential of food-borne illnesses.
Department Manager
McDonald's
08.2005 - 02.2017
- Developed & implemented promotional strategies to drive business success and maintain budgetary guidelines.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems by applying knowledgeable & friendly service.
- Assessed, optimized and elevated operations to target current & expected demands.
- Cultivated a talented team of department employees through outstanding mentoring, coaching & teaching skills.
- Determined performance goals for departmental employees and provided feedback on methods for reaching milestones.
- Kept department on-target to meet sales and profit objectives by minimizing waste & pursuing revenue generation opportunities.
Education
Some College (No Degree) -
Highland Community College
Freeport, IL06-2009
High School Diploma -
Freeport Senior High School
06-2007
Elementary of Education - Education
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ06-2028
Skills
Administrative Skills
- Scheduling and calendar management
- Data entry and record keeping
- Filing and organization (paper & digital)
- Office coordination
Communication Skills
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Professional phone and email etiquette
- Customer service and student support
- Conflict resolution
Work Skills
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
Technology Skills
- Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
- Google Docs/Google Workspace
- Basic office equipment (printers, copiers, scanners)
People Skills
- Friendly and approachable
- Patience and empathy
- Ability to work with students, parents, and staff
Timeline
Secretary To Deans
Freeport High School
08.2023 - Current
Claims Specialist (Finance)
Newell Brands
10.2020 - 07.2023
Waitress / Bartender
Logan’s Bar & Grill
07.2018 - 11.2018
Customer Service Representative
Sentry Insurance
02.2017 - 10.2020
Department Manager
McDonald's
08.2005 - 02.2017
Some College (No Degree) -
Highland Community College
High School Diploma -
Freeport Senior High School
Elementary of Education - Education
Grand Canyon University