Michael J. Lastra
Menifee,CA
Summary
Results-oriented sales professional with a background in construction, home improvement consulting, and client relationship management. Proven ability to build trust with homeowners, identify project needs, and deliver tailored solutions that close high-value remodeling projects. Entrepreneurial mindset with experience managing client relationships, negotiating contracts, and delivering exceptional customer service. Skilled at consultative sales, problem solving, and communicating value to customers.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Sales Consultant
Carbon Remodeling
California
01.2026 - Current
- Consult with homeowners to identify remodeling needs and recommend solutions including roofing, exterior coatings, landscaping, turf, pavers, windows, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Deliver in-home presentations explaining project options, materials, and value propositions.
- Build strong relationships with homeowners through consultative selling and trust-based communication.
- Generate and manage project opportunities while guiding customers through project scope, pricing, and timelines.
- Collaborate with project teams to ensure smooth handoff from sales to production.
- Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction while helping homeowners improve property value and functionality.
Chemist / Process Improvement Specialist
Bachem
Vista, CA
01.2021 - Current
- Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and client teams to solve complex manufacturing challenges.
- Present technical findings and recommendations to major pharmaceutical clients.
- Led process improvement initiative that prevented future product deviations and resulted in over $100K in savings.
- Train and mentor new team members while maintaining high standards of operational excellence.
- Analyze performance data and identify trends impacting product quality and production efficiency.
Chemist
Max Organic Farms
Nevada City, CA
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Managed laboratory operations and quality control processes.
- Oversaw production workflows and supported R&D initiatives to improve product consistency.
- Operated specialized laboratory equipment and maintained strict compliance with safety standards.
Business Owner
Precision Stonecraft
Santa Barbara, CA
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Founded and operated a residential construction business specializing in stonework and outdoor projects.
- Generated new business through client consultations, referrals, and direct outreach.
- Negotiated contracts and project scope with homeowners and contractors.
- Managed project planning, material sourcing, budgeting, and construction execution.
- Built strong customer relationships that drove repeat business and referrals.
Manager / Lead Server
Solvang Brewing Company
Solvang, CA
01.2013 - 01.2017
- Delivered high-level customer service in a fast-paced hospitality environment.
- Consistently exceeded sales targets through upselling and relationship-based service.
- Trained and mentored staff to improve service quality and sales performance.
- Resolved customer concerns and negotiated solutions to maintain positive guest experiences.
Stone Mason / Sales Representative
Stonescapes
Santa Barbara, CA
01.2007 - 01.2013
- Built relationships with contractors, architects, and homeowners to generate new business.
- Negotiated pricing, contracts, and project scope with clients.
- Coordinated multiple construction projects while maintaining deadlines and budgets.
- Contributed to installation and construction work on residential projects.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of California
Santa BarbaraSkills
- Consultative Sales
- Client Relationship Management
- Contract Negotiation
- Home Improvement Consulting
- Customer Needs Assessment
- Construction Project Knowledge
- Communication & Presentation Skills
- Lead Generation & Follow-Up
- Problem Solving
- Team Collaboration
- Time management
- Customer relationship management
- CRM proficiency
- Objection handling
Timeline
Sales Consultant
Carbon Remodeling
01.2026 - Current
Chemist / Process Improvement Specialist
Bachem
01.2021 - Current
Chemist
Max Organic Farms
01.2019 - 01.2020
Business Owner
Precision Stonecraft
01.2017 - 01.2019
Manager / Lead Server
Solvang Brewing Company
01.2013 - 01.2017
Stone Mason / Sales Representative
Stonescapes
01.2007 - 01.2013
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry
University of California