Marquita Walton
Hampton,GA
Summary
My professional object is to be a strategic Executive Director known for high productivity and efficient task completion. Possess strong leadership, financial management, and strategic planning skills crucial for driving organizational success. Excel in communication, problem-solving, and team motivation, ensuring seamless operations and stakeholder satisfaction. Ready to leverage these abilities to contribute to and grow within a forward-thinking organization.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Executive Director
Peach State Community Involvement Agency
Hampton, GA
01.2019 - Current
- 5+ years of experience leading this small nonprofit organization to success. Proven expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement.
- Developed and maintained partnerships with local organizations to facilitate resource sharing and collaboration.
- Conducted regular assessments of program effectiveness, using data to inform adjustments and improvements.
- Coordinated community events to raise awareness of agency initiatives and foster public involvement.
- Monitored industry trends and community needs to guide program development and service delivery.
- Created and managed budgets for multiple programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Led fundraising campaigns, increasing donor engagement and contributions by 25% year-over-year.
- Facilitated team-building activities to strengthen collaboration and morale among staff members.
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders, including board members, donors, sponsors, partners, and community leaders.
- Managed the organization's financial resources and operations to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.
- Maintained positive relationships with media outlets to increase visibility of organizational activities.
- Maintained accountability for operational and fiscal integrity, effectively managing designated budget.
- Evaluated existing programs for improvement opportunities while identifying new program ideas based on market analysis.
- Provided oversight of all departments to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures.
- Strengthened company business by leading implementation of new projects and procedures.
- Organized regular meetings with board members to discuss progress on initiatives and solicit feedback.
- Reviewed and approved annual operating and capital budgets for company.
- Coordinated special events such as conferences or workshops designed to raise awareness about the organization's mission.
- Ensured legal compliance by staying abreast of relevant laws, regulations, standards, guidelines.
- Stayed up-to-date on best practices and cutting-edge ideas to improve organizational effectiveness.
- Oversaw day-to-day administrative tasks related to personnel files or payroll processing.
- Assisted in developing budgets for each departmental unit within the organization.
- Served as spokesperson at press conferences or interviews when needed.
- Authored reports outlining progress on projects or initiatives for senior leadership review.
- Oversaw corrective action plans to remedy structural, organizational and departmental issues.
- Improved profitability by accurately maintaining P&L to meet prime fiscal responsibility.
Travel Agent
Once In A Lifetime Travel and Event Planning (GTN)
Jonesboro, GA
07.2015 - Current
- Work from home travel agent and event planner. Self employed via Gifted Travel Network
- Provided personalized travel recommendations by understanding client preferences and budget constraints.
- Maintained relationships with travel suppliers to negotiate favorable rates and ensure quality service.
- Utilized reservation systems to manage bookings and track client itineraries efficiently.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline processes and improve overall client satisfaction.
- Managed administrative tasks related to travel bookings, including document preparation and filing.
- Developed promotional materials to market travel packages and attract new clients.
- Evaluated client feedback to enhance service offerings and implement improvements.
- Coordinated group travel arrangements, ensuring all members were informed and satisfied.
- Developed relationships with suppliers including airlines, hotels, cruise lines, tour operators to secure discounted rates for customers.
- Cultivated strong value-added relationships with customers daily by delivering accurate travel itinerary and knowledge to drive business development.
- Negotiated competitive rates with travel suppliers to ensure the best deals for clients.
- Conducted travel seminars and presentations to educate clients on new destinations and travel tips.
- Mitigated financial discrepancies, accurately collecting customer fees, managing refunds, and providing accurate travel documentation.
Store Manager
Metro PCS of Hampton
Hampton, GA
07.2016 - 11.2019
- Sale of cellular devices, open and close customer accounts, customer service, train employees, conduct employee interviews, maintain financial records, meet daily monthly and weekly goals and sales quotas, create schedules, create marketing campaigns, activations, accept customer payments, cellular device troubleshooting, daily deposits
- Managed daily operations, ensuring store objectives were met and customer expectations exceeded.
- Trained staff on product knowledge and customer service standards to enhance team performance.
- Developed and implemented effective marketing strategies to boost customer engagement and sales.
- Created employee schedules to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours and special events.
- Conducted regular team meetings to discuss sales goals, product launches, and operational updates.
- Led training sessions for new hires, focusing on sales techniques and customer interaction.
- Implemented cost-saving measures that reduced operational expenses without compromising quality.
- Fostered a positive team culture by recognizing employee contributions and encouraging teamwork.
- Recruited, trained and supervised new employees.
- Conducted daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures and cash handling.
- Balanced sales, reconciled cash and made bank deposits to facilitate opening and closing duties.
- Prepared monthly reports on sales figures, expenses, profits.
- Prepared weekly schedules to verify proper floor coverage within fiscal guidelines.
- Exceeded team goals and resolved issues by sharing and implementing customer service initiatives.
- Organized promotional events to increase product awareness.
- Planned special promotions or discounts based on market trends.
- Built relationships with key customers and stakeholders to grow business networks and locate new opportunities.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Coordinated and directed activities of businesses or departments concerning production, pricing and sales.
- Monitored progress by establishing plans, budgets and measuring results.
- Improved productivity initiatives, managing budgets and accounts, coordinating itinerary and scheduling appointments.
Customer Service Representative(Remote)
Sitel/Toys R Us
05.2016 - 04.2017
- Provide outstanding customer service to all customers, provide support for online orders and support for in store issues, follow-up with retail outlets concerning customer complaints and situations, complete orders as needed, escalate issues, track customer orders, provide refunds, package tracking, account resolutions, document calls, meet SLA’s
- Maintained a thorough understanding of product offerings to provide informed recommendations.
- Managed high call volumes while maintaining a positive attitude and professionalism.
- Provided support for online orders and assisted with in-store issues as needed.
- Ensured compliance with company policies during customer interactions and order processing.
- Facilitated effective communication between customers and management to enhance satisfaction.
- Engaged with customers actively to build rapport and foster a welcoming environment.
- Resolved complex problems by working with other departments to provide solutions that meet customer needs.
- Performed administrative tasks such as filing paperwork, updating databases and generating reports.
- Identified opportunities for upselling additional products or services based on customer needs.
- Implemented innovative methods for streamlining the customer service process.
Secretary of School Council
Clayton County School Board/Mundy's Mill Middle School
Jonesboro, GA
08.2015 - 05.2016
- Secretarial work for all school council meetings, Kept minutes, Maintained Parent Resource Office, Contacted Supporters for donations, Worked closely with parent liaison to ensure parents were properly informed about student curriculum and events
- Provided frontline support to parents and students, addressing inquiries and resolving issues.
- Assisted in the preparation and distribution of school communications, including newsletters and announcements.
- Collaborated with teachers and staff to facilitate effective communication and coordination.
- Utilized software for data entry and reporting, improving efficiency in record-keeping tasks.
- Trained new staff on office procedures and software applications to enhance team performance.
- Supported event planning efforts by coordinating logistics and managing schedules.
- Maintained filing systems for confidential documents; organized files for easy retrieval of information when requested.
- Coordinated communications, taking calls, responding to emails and interfacing with clients.
- Performed data entry into computer systems; ensured accuracy of all entered information.
- Managed school calendar, ensuring all events were scheduled and conflicts resolved.
- Organized and maintained executive calendars, including scheduling meetings, travel arrangements and conference calls.
- Assisted with special projects or tasks related to departmental functions upon request.
- Created agendas and took minutes during meetings; distributed notes in a timely manner afterwards.
- Developed an efficient document tracking system which allowed quick access to all necessary paperwork.
- Operated office equipment such as photocopiers, scanners, and fax machines.
- Set up workshops, conferences and meetings by scheduling and reserving rooms and preparing supplies.
Customer Service Representative(Remote)
Teletech/Best Buy
09.2013 - 08.2015
- Order support, tracking packages, refunds, item lookup, sales, order modification, issue escalation, and resolve first contact issues
- Handled customer inquiries through various channels, providing clear and concise information.
- Developed strong customer relationships to encourage repeat business.
- Led on- and off-site customer support teams across multiple time zones.
- Prevented key account losses by researching discrepancies and correcting problems.
- Prepared and evaluated CRM reports to identify problems and areas for improvement.
Customer Service Representative(Remote)
Teletech/Weight Watchers
08.2012 - 07.2013
- Sign up new members, provide account information, account support, refunds, order support, minor counseling and motivation, account reinstatement
- Assisted customers with order processing, ensuring timely and accurate fulfillment of requests.
- Resolved escalated customer complaints by identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
- Trained new employees on customer service protocols and product knowledge to improve team performance.
- Collaborated with other departments to address customer issues and streamline service delivery.
- Maintained a thorough understanding of product offerings to provide informed recommendations.
- Performed administrative tasks such as filing paperwork, updating databases and generating reports.
- Kept records of customer interactions or transactions, thoroughly recording details of inquiries.
- Prepared and evaluated CRM reports to identify problems and areas for improvement.
Certified Wedding Specialist
Savvi Formal Wear
Atlanta, GA
03.2008 - 04.2012
- Assist Bride and Groom with all aspects of wedding, setup registration, perform follow ups, certified measurements, alterations, handle retail, customer service, and perform nightly audits, dress mannequins, stay up to date with industry certifications, other duties as requested.
- Consulted with clients to create personalized wedding packages tailored to their unique visions and budgets.
- Coordinated logistics for wedding ceremonies and receptions, ensuring seamless execution of events.
- Assisted clients in selecting appropriate wedding attire, providing expertise on styles and fit.
- Designed and implemented creative themes for weddings, ensuring cohesive aesthetics throughout the event.
- Organized pre-wedding events, including bridal showers and rehearsal dinners, managing all aspects from planning to execution.
- Facilitated communication between clients and vendors to ensure all expectations were met and exceeded.
- Maintained an organized system for tracking wedding details, contracts, and payments to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
- Managed hotel accommodations for out of town guests prior to the wedding day.
- Handled all communication between clients, vendors and other staff members involved in the planning process.
- Created program activities, agendas and budgets based on client requirements.
- Designed contracts, collected fees, and booked venues for events.
- Drove growth in event management business by continuously researching and implementing improved strategies to exceed client expectations.
Third Key Supervisor
After Hours Formal Wear
Albany, GA
06.2006 - 03.2008
- Customer service, bridal wear and tuxedo rentals, using the AS400 system and the CEM, Certified Wedding Consultant, writing registration and color coordinating weddings. Performed most closing and register balance duties. Night deposits of daily intake. Obligated to see that all customers received excellent service in a timely and efficient manner. Some travel required in certain situations. Some alterations.
- Assisted customers in selecting attire for special events, ensuring a personalized shopping experience.
- Conducted fittings and alterations for garments, maintaining high standards of quality and client satisfaction.
- Managed daily operations, including opening and closing procedures, to ensure smooth store functioning.
- Resolved customer complaints and issues effectively, fostering a positive shopping environment.
- Trained new employees on customer service protocols and operational procedures to enhance team effectiveness.
- Collaborated with management to implement new sales initiatives that boosted customer engagement.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with repeat customers to encourage loyalty and referrals.
- Executed visual merchandising strategies to enhance product displays and attract customer interest.
- Facilitated team meetings to review performance metrics and strategize on improving service delivery.
- Monitored cash register operations, ensuring accurate transactions and adherence to cash handling policies.
- Supervised and trained staff on product knowledge, customer service skills, and store operations.
- Created weekly work schedules for staff based on projected business needs.
- Streamlined workflow processes, reducing project completion times.
- Managed budget for department, ensuring all expenses stayed within allocated funds.
Front End Manager
Homerun Foods
Albany, GA
03.2006 - 06.2006
- Customer service, balance register, light cleaning, overall maintenance of store
- Supervised front-end operations, ensuring efficient service and customer satisfaction.
- Monitored daily sales performance and adjusted staffing levels to meet demand.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced customer wait times during peak hours.
- Coordinated with inventory management to streamline product restocking procedures.
- Conducted regular team meetings to review performance metrics and address staff concerns.
- Managed scheduling of front-end staff to ensure optimal coverage and efficiency.
- Collaborated with management to create promotional campaigns that increased customer engagement.
- Provided exceptional customer service, fostering relationships to drive sales growth.
- Managed customer complaints and rectified issues to complete satisfaction.
- Evaluated financial reports and trend forecasts.
- Maintained important files, running reports, and delivering updates on occupancy and revenue.
Cashier/Warehouse Supervisor Vendors Dept
Flash Foods
Albany, GA
11.2005 - 03.2006
- Began at store #291 as cashier and moved up to Warehouse Supervisor in February.
- Assisted customers with inquiries regarding store promotions and product offerings.
- Trained new cashiers on register operation, customer service standards, and company policies.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty.
- Supported promotional events by setting up displays and assisting with customer engagement.
- Adapted to various shifts and schedules to meet the needs of the store and its customers.
- Operated cash register or POS system to receive payment by cash, check and credit card.
- Issued receipts, refunds, credits or change due to customers.
- Worked closely with front-end staff to assist customers.
- Trained new team members in cash register operation, stock procedures, and customer services.
- Provided excellent customer service while promoting loyalty programs to increase sales potential.
- Learned roles of other departments to provide coverage and keep store operational.
- Kept records of purchases; maintained orderly appearance of checkout area; restocked supplies as needed.
- Assisted customers over the phone regarding store operations, product information and order placement.
- Used suggestive selling techniques to promote add-on sales.
- Boosted customer satisfaction levels by going extra mile to personalize service for each customer.
- Developed training programs for new warehouse staff to enhance operational efficiency.
Sales Manager
Wal-Mart
Americus, GA
09.2003 - 02.2004
- Worked throughout the company beginning as a cashier and then moving to sales floor assisting with customer service in various departments
- Proactively and friendly interaction with customers. Providing information about products and store policies to customers. Acting as a "mini tour guide" to help customers locate items. Operating the cash register and checking out customers when needed.
- Processed transactions efficiently using the point-of-sale system, ensuring accuracy in cash handling.
- Assisted customers in locating merchandise and provided tailored product recommendations.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve weekly sales targets and promote store initiatives.
- Participated in promotional events to drive sales and create customer excitement.
- Trained new staff on sales techniques and customer service protocols.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of product offerings and store promotions.
- Utilized customer feedback to improve service quality and enhance overall experience.
- Performed cashier duties such as accepting payments, issuing receipts and counting money back change.
- Answered incoming telephone calls to provide store, products and services information.
- Built and maintained relationships with peers and upper management to drive team success.
- Attended weekly team meetings to review performance goals and objectives.
- Processed returns, exchanges, and refunds in accordance with company policies.
- Led daily sales meetings to review performance metrics and set targets for team members.
- Utilized data analysis tools to assess sales performance and identify improvement areas.
- Maintained compliance with company policies and procedures to ensure operational excellence.
- Achieved company growth and brand development through market expansion and sales.
Asst. Manager
Zaxby's
Americus, GA
08.2002 - 09.2003
- Started as line cook and moved to crew leader and then assistant mgr. over a period of 4 months
- Train, schedule, and supervise employees, evaluate their performance, and provide coaching and motivation. Manage day-to-day operations, delegate tasks, and ensure workflow efficiency. Handle customer inquiries and complaints, process returns, and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
- Developed and implemented strategies to enhance team performance and efficiency.
- Collaborated with management to create promotional campaigns that increased customer engagement.
- Handled inventory management to ensure stock levels met operational needs.
- Supported financial activities, including daily cash handling and reconciliation.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of the dining area to enhance customer experience.
- Coordinated with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of food and beverage products.
- Conducted regular team meetings to communicate updates and address employee concerns.
- Supervised daily operations including scheduling shifts, assigning duties.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
- Created a positive work environment through effective leadership and employee recognition.
- Facilitated communication between front-line staff and upper management to improve workflow.
- Established processes for monitoring customer satisfaction levels.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Remained calm and professional in stressful circumstances and effectively diffused tense situations.
Education
BBA - Tourism And Hotel Management
American Public University
Charles Town, WV 12.2013 - 01/2017
High School Diploma - College Prep
Sumter County High School
Americus, GA 09.1999 - 06.2002
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration And Management
South Georgia Technical College
Americus, GA 08.2002 - 01.2003
Skills
- Strategic planning
- Budget development
- Program evaluation
- Community engagement
- Event coordination
- Team leadership
- Organization skills
- Effective communication
- Marketing strategies
- Case management
- Program monitoring
- Partnership development
- Contract management
- Growth management
- Business development
- Fundraising expertise
- Team leadership, training, and development
- Budgeting and financial management
- Business management
- Leadership development
- Budget reporting
- Government relations
- Program management
- Project management
- Team bonding
- Staff management
- Marketing
- Fundraising
- Board relations
- Outreach programs
Timeline
Executive Director
Peach State Community Involvement Agency
01.2019 - Current
Store Manager
Metro PCS of Hampton
07.2016 - 11.2019
Customer Service Representative(Remote)
Sitel/Toys R Us
05.2016 - 04.2017
Secretary of School Council
Clayton County School Board/Mundy's Mill Middle School
08.2015 - 05.2016
Travel Agent
Once In A Lifetime Travel and Event Planning (GTN)
07.2015 - Current
BBA - Tourism And Hotel Management
American Public University
12.2013 - 01/2017
Customer Service Representative(Remote)
Teletech/Best Buy
09.2013 - 08.2015
Customer Service Representative(Remote)
Teletech/Weight Watchers
08.2012 - 07.2013
Certified Wedding Specialist
Savvi Formal Wear
03.2008 - 04.2012
Third Key Supervisor
After Hours Formal Wear
06.2006 - 03.2008
Front End Manager
Homerun Foods
03.2006 - 06.2006
Cashier/Warehouse Supervisor Vendors Dept
Flash Foods
11.2005 - 03.2006
Sales Manager
Wal-Mart
09.2003 - 02.2004
Some College (No Degree) - Business Administration And Management
South Georgia Technical College
08.2002 - 01.2003
Asst. Manager
Zaxby's
08.2002 - 09.2003
High School Diploma - College Prep
Sumter County High School
09.1999 - 06.2002