Lisa Turnwall
Grand Rapids
Summary
Accomplished professional with a strong background in strategic initiatives and people management. Known for mentoring teams and implementing innovative solutions that enhance participant engagement and operational efficiency.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Placement Director/ARO
Council for Educational Travel, USA
Grand Rapids, MI
04.2011 - 03.2026
- Directed strategic initiatives to enhance J1 educational exchange programs.
- Oversaw program evaluation processes, ensuring alignment with organizational goals following all State Department guidelines and CETUSA best practices
- Transformed organizational culture to embrace continuous improvement, leading by example and mentoring teams.
- Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Managed senior-level personnel working in marketing and reaching goal capacities.
- Led cross-functional teams to implement innovative solutions for participant engagement.
- Facilitated training sessions for staff on best practices in international education.
- Analyzed program data to identify trends and inform strategic decision-making.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Boosted client satisfaction rates through exceptional relationship management and prompt resolution of issues.
- Cultivated high-performance executive team, selecting and mentoring candidates for key leadership roles.
Operations Manager
Sam's Club
Kentwood, MI
09.1990 - 04.2011
- Oversaw daily operations to enhance productivity and efficiency across all departments.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing waste and improving stock accuracy.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Achieved higher employee retention rates by fostering a positive work environment and providing opportunities for professional growth.
- Developed strong relationships with members, resulting in greater sales growth and loyalty to business.
- Implemented performance metrics to track team efficiency and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Education
Associate of Arts - Merchandising
Grand Rapids Community College
Grand Rapids, MI05-1989
Skills
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- Team management
- Employee development
- Goal setting
- Staff development
Timeline
Senior Placement Director/ARO
Council for Educational Travel, USA
04.2011 - 03.2026
Operations Manager
Sam's Club
09.1990 - 04.2011
Associate of Arts - Merchandising
Grand Rapids Community College