Leona Lu
East Lyme,CT
Summary
Dynamic industry leader with over 5 years of leadership experience in the U.S. restaurant technology and SaaS sectors, recognized for effectively bridging operational realities with innovative tech-driven solutions that drive significant revenue growth for independent operators. Expertise in consulting, implementing, and managing cross-functional projects, along with a unique ability to translate complex industry challenges into actionable product insights. Proven track record in building and scaling high-performing teams within fast-paced environments, ensuring sustained success and adaptability. Committed to leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and foster business growth.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Onboarding Manager
Toast, Inc
06.2021 - Current
- Founded and scaled the Emerging Market Implementation Team, growing the department from the ground up to a high-performing unit of 10 bilingual consultants.
- Directed end-to-end talent strategy, including the hiring, coaching, and professional development of team members to ensure consistent performance standards.
- Led the successful implementation of 5,000+ restaurants, directly generating over $30M in Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR).
- Spearheaded a strategic growth initiative that increased upsell module ARR by 5% through optimized cross-selling workflows.
- GTM Launch Strategy: Expert in building "Zero-to-One" launch plans tailored for the U.S. SMB market.
- SMB Segment Expertise: Deep understanding of decision-making cycles across restaurants, retail, F&B, and e-commerce.
- Partnership & Outreach: Expert at bridging the gap between U.S. market requirements and international product teams to ensure product-market fit.
Director of Educational Services
BostonWise
09.2015 - 03.2021
- Designed educational programs with emphasis on learning through active and inquiry-based exploration.
- Worked toward defined revenue goals for outreach, exchange programs between China and US, and other educational programs.
- Developed and led programming implementation aligned with federal and foundational grants.
- Created and implemented online and in-person programs for teachers and students and business professionals.
K-12 Teacher/International Advisor
Wyoming Seminary College Prep School
08.2014 - 08.2015
- Taught K-12 level ESL classes.
- Developed activities and integrated technology to diversify instruction.
- Helped students explore concepts with engaging, learning-focused activities.
- Assisted students in exploring and selecting career paths.
- Empowered students through counseling and skill-building exercises.
Education
MBA -
Johnson And Wales University
Providence, RI01.2018
Master of Arts - Education
Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ01.2014
Bachelor of Arts - English And Business
Shanghai University
Shanghai, China01.2011
Skills
- Stakeholder management
- Software implementation
- Employee engagement
- Cross-functional coordination
- Coaching leadership
- Analytical thinking
- Problem resolution
- Team building
- Revenue growth management
- Supervision and leadership
Languages
English, Mandarin
Native or Bilingual
Honors & Awards
Seton Hall University: Selected as the commencement speaker at the graduation ceremony of 2014
Achieved academic scholarship - $30,000 (2012-2014)
Timeline
Senior Onboarding Manager
Toast, Inc
06.2021 - Current
Director of Educational Services
BostonWise
09.2015 - 03.2021
K-12 Teacher/International Advisor
Wyoming Seminary College Prep School
08.2014 - 08.2015
MBA -
Johnson And Wales University
Master of Arts - Education
Seton Hall University
Bachelor of Arts - English And Business
Shanghai University