MELISSA THURSTON
Mandeville,LA
Summary
Goal-oriented professional well-versed in operational practices and regulatory requirements of childcare and business environments. Skilled leader and analytical problem-solver well-versed in budget planning, staff oversight and program management. Skillfully use relationship-building talents and diplomatic communication style to forge long-lasting connections.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Weekday Preschool Director
First Baptist Church Mandeville
07.2021 - Current
- Supervise and manage team of childcare professionals to guarantee highest standards of care.
- Hire and train high-quality staff to reduce turnover and foster stability.
- Conduct staff evaluations and provide constructive feedback, fostering growth and development.
- Engage with parents and families to build positive relationships.
- Observe and assess classroom activities to verify conformity with quality standards.
- Managed daily operations, ensuring efficient scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation for optimal program performance.
- Created a safe learning environment through regular safety drills and safety practices.
- Recruit new students and families for admission through marketing, on-site tours and other church events.
Office Coordinator
First Baptist Church Mandeville
06.2016 - 06.2021
- Interacted with families and community by phone, email, or in-person to provide information regarding preschool program.
- Provided administrative support to Preschool Director and staff, assisting with daily tasks as needed to promote productivity across the organization.
- Received and processed monthly tuition payments and accounts receivable/payables.
- Contributed to growth by looking for ways to improve office processes, maximize efficiency, and improve program.
Preschool Teacher
Mandeville First Baptist CDC
08.2015 - Current
- Educated students in foundational concepts such as shapes, numbers, and letters.
- Developed weekly lesson plans and activities to engage children and promote learning.
- Organized activities where children can learn about Jesus, the world, explore interest and develop skills.
- Developed strong relationships with parents and caregivers, providing regular updates on their child's progress while addressing any concerns.
HR Consultant - Employee Benefits
IMS
01.2013 - 07.2013
- Coordinate and manage all benefit programs for 1500+ employees, benefits selection process and open enrollment process.
- Research and resolve employee benefits questions & claims issues.
- Audit and reconcile benefit plans monthly.
- Maintain knowledge of legal requirements relating to benefits administration and ensure policies are in compliance.
Benefits Manager/Employee Relations
Integrated Medical Systems
09.2007 - 01.2013
- Coordinated and managed all benefit programs for 1000+ employees, benefits selection process and open enrollment process.
- Administered Leave of Absence and Disability programs.
- Researched and resolved employee benefits claims issues.
- Audited and reconciled benefit plans monthly.
- Maintained knowledge of legal requirements relating to benefits administration while ensuring policies were in compliance.
Store Manager (Part Time)
Sweet & Sassy
12.2006 - 08.2007
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of store and maintain clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Hired, supervised and trained staff of 25+ employees.
Employee Relations Coordinator
HealthSouth Corporation
09.2004 - 05.2006
- Processed new hires and termination paperwork for Surgery Division.
- Evaluated, analyzed and processed market adjustments and salary increases.
- Supported Managers with employment decisions and compliance issues in regards to employment laws and company policies.
- Participated in internal investigations involving allegations of misconduct or policy violations, helping maintain a fair workplace environment.
- Collaborated with legal counsel to ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations throughout all employee relations activities.
- Educated employees about their rights and responsibilities regarding company policies, ensuring consistent understanding across the board.
- Responded to EEOC claims.
Human Resources Coordinator
J. Smith Lanier & Co.
11.2000 - 07.2004
- Maintained human resources information system and kept employee files up to date and accurate.
- Processed new hire/termination paperwork for 450+ employees.
- Coordinated & administered company benefits programs and handled claims issues.
- Conducted new employee onboarding and provided ongoing orientation training.
- Assisted in recruiting efforts, employee orientations and other general HR tasks.
Recruiting Specialist I
Regions Financial Corporation
03.2000 - 10.2000
- Placed advertisements, evaluated applicant credentials, conducted initial interviews and pre-screening assessments.
- Recruited at colleges, technical school & career fairs sourcing qualified talent.
- Evaluated and analyzed position requisitions to determine grade levels and salary ranges.
- Coordinated internal transfers and promotional increases.
- Conducted reference checks, background screening and other pre-employment checks to verify applicants information.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Human Resources Management
Auburn University
Auburn, AL12.1999
Skills
- Human Resource Management
- Program Development
- Childcare Management
- Budget Administration
- Staff recruitment
- Employee Relations
- Strong analytical skills
- Employee Benefits administration
- FMLA and ADA Knowledge
- Employment law compliance
- Program Leadership
- Program Management
Timeline
Weekday Preschool Director
First Baptist Church Mandeville
07.2021 - Current
Office Coordinator
First Baptist Church Mandeville
06.2016 - 06.2021
Preschool Teacher
Mandeville First Baptist CDC
08.2015 - Current
HR Consultant - Employee Benefits
IMS
01.2013 - 07.2013
Benefits Manager/Employee Relations
Integrated Medical Systems
09.2007 - 01.2013
Store Manager (Part Time)
Sweet & Sassy
12.2006 - 08.2007
Employee Relations Coordinator
HealthSouth Corporation
09.2004 - 05.2006
Human Resources Coordinator
J. Smith Lanier & Co.
11.2000 - 07.2004
Recruiting Specialist I
Regions Financial Corporation
03.2000 - 10.2000
Bachelor of Science - Human Resources Management
Auburn University
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