Melissa Rivera
Rosemead,CA
Summary
Dynamic Owner/Operator at Pony Tale Parties with a proven track record in operations management and exceptional customer service. Successfully negotiated vendor contracts, enhancing service quality and client satisfaction. Skilled in hiring and training staff, fostering a motivated team to streamline event execution and elevate customer experiences.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Operator
Pony Tale Parties
Pico Rivera, CA
2013 - 01.2026
- Developed and implemented event planning strategies to ensure seamless execution of parties.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for supplies and services.
- Coordinated logistics for on-site setup, ensuring timely arrival and completion of events.
- Designed creative themes and activities tailored to client preferences, enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Trained staff on safety protocols and best practices for event management.
- Evaluated client feedback to refine services and improve overall event experience.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
- Managed daily operations for optimal efficiency, streamlining processes to reduce costs.
- Spoke professionally with customers regarding complaints, gathering all necessary information to make educated decisions and address issues.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Ensured compliance with relevant regulations, maintaining proper documentation and licensing requirements.
- Kept all building areas and equipment functional and well-organized to promote business performance.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure favorable terms for the business.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Oversaw the hiring process, selecting highly skilled candidates who contributed significantly to company success.
- Contributed positively to the local community through involvement in various events or charitable organizations.
- Operated with safety and skill to avoid accidents and delays.
- Demonstrated safe driving by following regulations and safety procedures, resulting in zero accidents.
- Dropped and hooked trailers and changed configuration of equipment.
Food Preparation Worker
Fruitland
Whittier, CA
07.2007 - 12.2012
- Prepared food items according to safety and quality standards.
- Operated kitchen equipment, ensuring proper functionality and cleanliness.
- Assisted in inventory management by monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline food preparation processes.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment following health regulations.
- Kept workstation and equipment clean, organized, sanitized, and sufficiently stocked.
- Sanitized work surfaces between food preparation, avoiding cross-contamination and maintaining food safety guidelines.
- Demonstrated punctuality and reliability in consistently arriving for scheduled shifts to meet service demands.
- Washed, peeled, and cut fruits and vegetables in advance to save time on food preparation.
- Packaged and stored food products following proper handling and preservation methods.
- Maintained a clean and sanitary workspace, adhering to strict health and safety standards for optimal work conditions.
- Organized and re-stocked various stations and self-service items.
- Made food according to standard recipes with requested changes for customer satisfaction.
- Maintained organization in kitchen to keep track of multiple tasks and prepare meals correctly.
- Multitasked effectively during high-volume periods by prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance.
- Supported kitchen team by being responsive and pitching in to complete tasks.
- Handled high-pressure situations calmly and professionally during peak hours of operation.
- Managed time to juggle multiple meal preparations simultaneously and complete job duties on time.
- Guaranteed customer satisfaction by quickly delivering orders.
- Lifted and carried heavy materials.
Ranch Manager
Mobile Zoo of Southern California
Pico Rivera, CA
02.2012 - 2022
- Managed daily operations of animal care and feeding schedules.
- Supervised staff in habitat maintenance and animal enrichment activities.
- Developed training programs for new employees on safety protocols.
- Implemented best practices for wildlife conservation and animal welfare.
- Coordinated educational programs to enhance visitor engagement and awareness.
- Monitored inventory levels of feed, supplies, and equipment for efficiency.
- Led initiatives to improve operational workflows and reduce downtime.
- Cultivated relationships with local organizations to promote community involvement in conservation efforts.
- Performed repairs and preventive maintenance on equipment and property.
- Examined animals for signs of sickness and overall herd health.
- Enhanced animal welfare through proper nutrition, healthcare, and monitoring procedures.
- Maintained ranch records and documentation.
- Worked closely with employees to improve practices, techniques and safety choices, optimizing performance, and minimizing waste.
- Hired new ranch hands and livestock handlers seasonally.
- Enforced strong safety and environmental protections to support habitats while preventing harm to employees or consumers.
- Incorporated safety procedures into every shift to protect workers from accidents.
- Fed and watered over 30 animals according to strict feeding schedules and dietary needs.
Education
High School Diploma -
Pioneer High School
Whittier, CA07.2001
Skills
Operations management
Documentation and reporting
Hiring
Timeline
Ranch Manager
Mobile Zoo of Southern California
02.2012 - 2022
Food Preparation Worker
Fruitland
07.2007 - 12.2012
Owner/Operator
Pony Tale Parties
2013 - 01.2026
High School Diploma -
Pioneer High School