Lora Gess
Richmond,VA
Summary
Dynamic leader with a proven track record developing and optimizing processes and fostering a collaborative environment to meet organizational goals. Skilled in inventory management, leadership, operational management, and customer service.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Operations Manager
Sous Casa
06.2021 - Current
- Managed physical inventory for bi-weekly deliveries and wholesale orders.
- Established positive and effective communication between kitchen, delivery staff and ownership, reducing miscommunications and missed deadlines.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by responding in a timely and customer-focused manner.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Supervised staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Worked with two wholesale distributors to launch Sous Casa frozen burritos in over 50 stores.
Taproom Manager
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
02.2017 - 05.2021
- Managed inventory and maintained optimal stock levels to ensure product quality and availability.
- Worked creatively to lead the taproom through the COVID pandemic, successfully creating ways to maintain revenue streams.
- Improved customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and maintaining a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
- Oversaw routine maintenance tasks for taps, coolers, glassware, and other equipment to guarantee consistent quality control standards were met.
- Trained and mentored staff on taproom operations, customer service techniques, and beer knowledge.
- Coordinated with marketing teams to develop advertising campaigns that effectively showcased the unique offerings of the taproom.
- Evaluated employee performance regularly, offering constructive feedback and opportunities for professional development.
Farm Manager
Chocolates and Tomatoes Farm
02.2015 - 01.2017
- Managed farm staff efficiently, providing training and guidance for optimal performance.
- Oversaw the maintenance of farm machinery, resulting in reduced downtime due to repairs or malfunctions.
- Developed long-term plans for crop rotation, soil management, and sustainable farming practices to maintain soil fertility and prevent erosion.
- Adjusted production strategies to account for changing factors such as market and weather conditions.
- Worked with owner and staff to achieve NOC (National Organic Certification) and CNG (Certified Naturally Grown) statuses.
- Managed a 40 person farm-share CSA, with weekly deliveries and pick ups.
AmeriCorps VISTA - Food Pantry Consultant
MANNA Food Bank
02.2014 - 02.2015
- Evaluated client needs and expectations, establishing clear goals for both food pantry and main food bank.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to successfully deliver comprehensive solutions for increased utilization of pantry offerings.
- Managed client relationships through regular check-ins.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - History And Politics
Warren Wilson College
Asheville05-2013
Skills
- Team Leadership
- Problem-Solving
- Customer Service
- Inventory Management
Timeline
Operations Manager
Sous Casa
06.2021 - Current
Taproom Manager
Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
02.2017 - 05.2021
Farm Manager
Chocolates and Tomatoes Farm
02.2015 - 01.2017
AmeriCorps VISTA - Food Pantry Consultant
MANNA Food Bank
02.2014 - 02.2015
Bachelor of Arts - History And Politics
Warren Wilson College
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