Linda Bahrke
Summary
Results-driven retail leader with 15 years of management experience enhancing store performance and team development. Expertise in leading large teams, optimizing operations, and achieving financial targets in fast-paced settings. Committed to fostering inclusive workplaces that promote associate growth and customer loyalty.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Department Manager
Publix Super Markets
Florida
01.2013 - Current
- Led daily operations of a high-volume department, overseeing merchandising, inventory control, scheduling, and financial performance
- Drove sales growth through strategic product placement, upselling techniques, and customer engagement initiatives
- Managed expenses while minimizing shrink and product loss, contributing to department profitability
- Supervised, trained, and developed 30+ associates, enhancing team culture and performance
- Mentored team members into leadership roles, contributing to internal promotions and retention
- Conducted coaching, performance evaluations, and corrective action with a focus on growth and accountability
- Delivered 'above and beyond' service, turning challenging customer interactions into long-term loyalty
- Established strong customer relationships, resulting in high satisfaction standards and loyalty
Assistant Manager
Denny's
01.1997 - 01.2013
- Managed daily restaurant operations, ensuring efficient staffing, scheduling, inventory control, and accurate cash handling
- Led and developed team members, enhancing skills in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment
- Maintained high standards for food safety, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction
- Resolved customer concerns swiftly, reinforcing brand loyalty through effective service
Education
First Baptist Christian School
Pinellas Park, FLSkills
- Store Operations Management
- Retail management
- Sales growth
- Inventory control
- Labor management
- Loss prevention
- Financial performance
- High-volume retail
- Visual merchandising
- Loss prevention
- Customer experience
- Customer engagement
- Training & Coaching
- Staff training
- Labor scheduling
- Expense management
- Supply and inventory management
- Retail management
- Team leadership
- Department leadership
- Performance management
- Strategic planning
- Workflow optimization
- Workflow coordination
- Decision-making
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Conflict resolution
- Effective communication
- Problem-solving
- Verbal communication
- Relationship management
- Staff recruitment
- POS software
- Strategies and goals
- Customer service
Certification
- Food Safety Certified
- CPR & AED Certified
Accomplishments
- Led and developed teams of 30+ associates with strong retention and internal promotions.
- Consistently maintained operational standards in high-volume environments.
- Recognized for outstanding customer service and leadership impact.
Timeline
Department Manager
Publix Super Markets
01.2013 - Current
Assistant Manager
Denny's
01.1997 - 01.2013
First Baptist Christian School