Kimberly Zehlke
Maple Grove,MN
Summary
Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
CEO/OWNER
EMPLOYEES' FIRST LLC
09.2024 - Current
- Managed day-to-day operations with strong organizational skills, ensuring smooth workflows and timely completion of tasks.
- Promoted business via social media to generate leads and maximize brand identity.
- Enhanced company reputation by delivering top-quality products and services, ensuring repeat business from satisfied clients.
- Increased client satisfaction by providing personalized business solutions and exceptional customer service.
- Developed comprehensive business plans outlining short-and long-term objectives, guiding decision-making processes for sustained success.
- Designed business plan to define concept, short-term and long-term goals and strategies.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
OPERATIONS - HUMAN RESOURCES
MIDWEST TRADING COMPANIES
02.2024 - Current
- Enhanced employee performance by designing and implementing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs. J
- Conducted thorough employee evaluations to identify areas for improvement and develop actionable steps for growth.
- Maintained accurate employee records by developing efficient filing systems and staying current on legal requirements related to documentation retention periods.
- Managed large-scale HR projects from inception to completion, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure desired outcomes were achieved.
- Led annual salary review process by gathering market data and collaborating with department heads to determine appropriate compensation adjustments.
- Coordinated company-wide restructurings that resulted in improved operational efficiency without compromising employee morale or satisfaction levels.
- Spearheaded diversity initiatives aimed at building a more inclusive work environment, leading to an increase in minority representation among staff.
- Provided ongoing coaching and mentorship to staff members, supporting their professional development endeavors.
- Designed incentive programs aimed at boosting employee morale and job satisfaction levels within the organization.
HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTOR
GOLDEN VALLEY WHOLESALE
05.2019 - Current
- Recruiting (Posting, Onboarding, Training, Exit Interviews), Creating Update of all Policies and Procedures, Creation of Job Progression Program that allows growth for employee and managers, Budgets and Benefit Administration, Disciplinary Issues, Unemployment Agent, Workers Compensation, Certified Business Co-Hort Business Trainer for Skill Based Hiring, Created Job Progression Program, DEI, Employee Recognition and Survey Program, Payroll, Yearly audit completions and inspections, Safety Manuals, Selection and completion of new vendors for Hr Solutions.
INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR
Advocare (Mn)
09.2016 - 01.2022
- Lead Generation, Training, Sales, Customer Service, Promotional Events
- Increased sales revenue by consistently following up with leads and cultivating long-term relationships.
- Maintained accurate records of all transactions, ensuring compliance with company policies and relevant regulations.
- Organized successful product demonstrations at local events, generating buzz around new offerings and driving sales growth.
DIRECT HIRE RECRUITER- SALES - STAFFING CONSULTANT
EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS
05.2018 - 05.2019
- New Business Development, Recruiting and Plan Development (Trade Shows referral programs etc.), Interviewing and Applicant Placement (Phone Interview Creation), Creation of Direct Hiring Program, Marketing, Strategies and Implementation, Resume Creation, Editing and Job Coaching
- Maintained transparency throughout entire hiring cycle with both client and candidate; keeping all parties informed on progress/status updates.
- Provided ongoing support throughout the hiring process for both clients and candidates, ensuring smooth transitions into new roles.
- Evaluated effectiveness of existing recruitment tools/methods periodically; implemented necessary changes to optimize results.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and market conditions, informing strategic recruitment decisions.
- Successfully filled challenging roles within tight deadlines, demonstrating resourcefulness and adaptability in recruitment efforts.
- Managed a diverse portfolio of direct hire positions across multiple industries, demonstrating versatility in recruitment.
WHOLESALE SALES MANAGER
GOLDEN VALLEY WHOLESALE
07.2015 - 06.2016
- Sales Management – 5 direct reports, Territory Management and Expansion, Sales Force Data Base Creation and Customer Management, New Product Launch, Develop Sales Handbook and Regulations, Commission and Sales Goal Management, Sales Training and Hiring, Responsible for all employment recruiting for all departments, Communicate with Buyers, Warehouse Manager, Inventory Manager to ensure proper inventory, product selection and sales margins, Create all Marketing materials (Sale/Clearance/Overstock items), Ride Along with sales representatives to create solid customer relationships
- Monitored market trends and customer preferences, sharing insights with product development teams to inform the creation of innovative offerings that meet client needs.
GROCERY/GENERAL MERCHANDISE BUYER
GOLDEN VALLEY WHOLESALE
10.2014 - 07.2015
- Negotiate pricing with current and new vendors for 3,000 plus skus, Research new product and profitability, Manage Inventory – Sales Catalog – Expired Items, All administrative purchase order duties, Coordinate Vendor spiffs for sales team, Manage all returns and donations, Coordinate Shipping Requirements
- Mentored junior buyers, sharing industry insights, best practices, and fostering professional growth opportunities within the team.
- Achieved high sell-through rates by collaborating with the visual merchandising team to create impactful in-store displays.
- Collaborated with marketing teams to develop promotional campaigns that drove store traffic and increased sales volume.
- Monitored competitor activity to maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace and adjust buying strategies accordingly.
- Assisted in developing private label programs that resulted in unique product offerings at competitive price points.
- Maximized profits by implementing strategic markdowns and promotions based on seasonal demand and product lifecycle.
- Reduced lead times by establishing efficient communication channels between internal departments and external vendors.
- Maintained optimum stock levels through regular review of sales data, adjusting purchasing decisions as needed to meet customer demands promptly.
- Streamlined purchasing processes, reducing errors and ensuring accurate order placements.
NATIONWIDE SALES DEVELOPMENT
GOLDEN VALLEY WHOLESALE
07.2011 - 10.2014
- Successfully introduced Golden Valley Product Line into Sam Clubs, Managed Sam's Club account using Retail Link, Responsible for all nationwide sales accounts, business development, and CRM (Sales Force), Coordinate all aspects of order filling and shipping, Responsible for selection of shipping carriers and brokers, Responsible for 100 plus account including introducing product into CoreMark, Responsible for all Marketing duties, mailchimp, website, direct mail,tradeshow.
- Created detailed reports on sales activities and performance metrics for management review, enabling informed decision-making regarding future strategies.
- Continuously expanded product knowledge through ongoing training sessions and self-directed learning initiatives, maintaining expert status in a dynamic market landscape.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction with personalized solutions tailored to their specific needs.
- Aligned personal performance objectives with overall company goals, demonstrating commitment to organizational success and individual growth.
OWNER
MOBILE LINK WIRELESS/ JK ENTERPRISES
01.2007 - 01.2011
- All aspects Small Business Management – 2 Locations, Store Setup – Buyer- Marketing – Financial – Lease Negotiation, Recognized for Top reseller for state of MN, Government Contract Bids
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Expanded product offerings by researching market trends and identifying potential growth opportunities.
- Generated revenues yearly and effectively capitalized on industry growth.
- Streamlined operations to improve efficiency, enabling more time to be spent on strategic planning and decisionmaking.
- Elevated brand awareness with targeted marketing campaigns, leveraging social media and digital platforms.
- Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
- Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
- Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
OFFICE MANAGER/BUYER
THE BATTERY STORE (Brooklyn Center, MN)
01.1999 - 01.2007
- A/P A/R, Product Analysis, Purchasing- Margin Determination, Pager Monthly Service Billing, Reseller Signup
- Handled sensitive information with discretion, maintaining confidentiality of company documents and personnel records.
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing client inquiries or concerns via phone calls or email correspondence.
- Maintained accurate financial records by reconciling accounts payable/receivable transactions regularly to ensure balanced budgets.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for cost savings while maintaining high-quality services.
- Assisted in the recruitment process, conducting interviews and onboarding new employees to promote a seamless integration into the team dynamic.
- Served as a liaison between upper management and staff members, facilitating open channels of communication to address concerns or issues promptly.
- Optimized office space utilization, leading to more efficient and productive work environment.
- Provided comprehensive administrative support to senior management, enabling them to focus on strategic decision-making.
- Facilitated smooth office relocations by meticulously planning and coordinating all aspects of move.
SALES/AUDITOR
PageNet (Bloomington, MN)
01.1996 - 01.1999
- Customer Service – 500 Calls Per Day, Billing for Business, Individual and Resellers, Audit all programming and billing monthly for Business and Resellers to make sure accurate, Sales- Account Representative- Existing accounts and new business – exchanges, repairs, exchanges
PRODUCT DESIGN/SALES
Duplex Products (St. Louis Park, MN)
01.1994 - 01.1995
- Created Presentations for Outside Sales(Powerpoint) and go to appointment to setup, Enter Form Specs into Proprietary software that went to Salt Lake for Production, Created The First Computer Document to enter Josten Ring orders for schools to reduce paper, Telemarketing for Company Branded Gift Cards etc.
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT/HUMAN RESOURCES
Rainbow Corporate Office (Hopkins, MN)
01.1990 - 01.1994
- Workers Compensation Claims Documentation/Filing/Investigation, Light Duty Assignment and Ergonomic Training, Creation of All Fire Maps for All Store Locations, Distribution of all Safety Supplies, Executive Assistant to President and Vice President, Scheduling Appointments – Meeting Setups, Shorthand and Type Letters, Accounting Figures For Stores Daily
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Business
AUGSBURG COLLEGE
MPLS, MNSkills
Effective Decision Making
Operational Excellence
Customer Focus
Business Administration
Marketing and Advertising
Analytical and Critical Thinker
Talent Recruitment
Consulting
Employee Motivation and Performance
Business Development
Management Team Leadership
Effective Communicator and Public Speaker
Certification
- REWORK AMERICA ALLIANCE-ACTIVATOR - EGV-1
- REWORK AMERICA ALLIANCE EMPLOYER
- AARP EMPLOYER PROGRAM
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