MICHAEL VAN SANT
DULUTH,US
Summary
Manager with over 25 years of extensive expertise in strategic management and operational efficiency, recognized for fostering strong partnerships and driving transformative results. Proficient in problem-solving, negotiation, and strategic planning, with a proven history of leadership in global sourcing and customer service. Dedicated to nurturing collaborative team environments and leveraging data analytics to achieve shared goals and innovate processes.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Premier Wash Systems
Duluth, MN
08.2025 - 06.2026
- Directed operational strategies to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Implemented process improvements that streamlined workflow efficiency and reduced turnaround times.
- Managed cross-functional teams to achieve organizational objectives and foster collaboration.
- Developed and executed training programs to enhance staff performance and retention rates.
- Fostered a culture of safety compliance, minimizing workplace incidents through proactive measures.
- Oversaw budget management, optimizing resource allocation for maximum operational effectiveness.
- Engaged with key stakeholders to align business goals with operational capabilities, enhancing overall productivity.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Implemented operational strategies and effectively built customer and employee loyalty.
General Manager
Safelite
Duluth
12.2023 - 03.2025
- Implemented inventory management strategies, reducing stock discrepancies and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
- Fostered a collaborative team environment, promoting employee engagement and boosting staff morale through regular feedback sessions.
- Daily review of the customer feedback system, enabling actionable insights that improved service delivery and customer satisfaction ratings.
- Streamlined the appointment scheduling process, enhancing customer experience and reducing wait times for service.
- Implemented targeted inventory management strategies, achieving noticeable reductions in stock discrepancies and enhancing operational efficiency.
- Cultivated a team-oriented environment, which significantly boosted employee engagement and morale through consistent feedback and recognition programs.
Manager - Global Strategic Sourcing
Best Buy
Richfield, MN
09.2015 - 10.2022
- Partner with internal and external stakeholders to identify and leverage contract value opportunities.
- Administered agreements by negotiating and executing contract extensions while resolving administrative issues.
- Delivered procurement impact savings in accordance with yearly performance objectives.
- Participated in weekly, monthly business meetings to collect and relay sourcing details to leadership.
- Participated in RFP requests for quotes to support sourcing efforts and strategy.
- Collaborated with strategic partners to develop and manage key performance indicators and quality assurance processes.
- Monitored labor markets and reviewed market data to find the best partner with the locations and performance we were looking for.
- Managed and developed relationships with suppliers to attain maximum cost efficiency and high quality performance.Negotiated contract extensions, achieving substantial cost savings while enhancing supplier relationships and compliance.
- Analyzed market data to identify optimal sourcing partners, leading to improved quality performance and cost efficiency.
- Coordinated with stakeholders to establish key performance indicators, driving measurable improvements in procurement processes.
- Developed a streamlined RFP process, enhancing sourcing strategies and expediting vendor selection.
- Fostered a collaborative environment by engaging cross-functional teams in sourcing discussions, enhancing communication and transparency.
Customer Care Execution Manager
Best Buy
Richfield, MN
07.2011 - 09.2015
- Designed the Customer Experience when contacting Best Buy for several different programs.
- Conducted training and mentored team members to promote productivity, accuracy and commitment to friendly service.
- Built client relationships by responding to inquiries, identifying and assessing clients' needs, resolving problems.
- Handled complaints, provided appropriate solutions and alternatives within appropriate timeframes, and followed up to achieve resolution.
- Performed duties and provided service in accordance with established operating procedures and company policies while constantly reviewing to identify what can still be improved.
- Applied best practices in customer service, sales and employee management to exceed organizational goals.
- Created customer support strategy to increase customer retention.
- Monitored metrics and developed actionable insights to improve efficiency and performance.
Retail Manager
Best Buy
Apple Valley, MN
09.2008 - 07.2011
- Exhibited excellent people skills during interaction with employees and customers.
- Oversaw employee performance, corrected problems and increased efficiency to maintain productivity targets.
- Controlled store inventory and reviewed cash handling and operations reports.
- Trained and developed new employees for ease of transition into team.
- Exceeded sales goals and accomplished business objectives by inspiring staff and promoting target products.
- Trained team members in successful strategies to meet operational and sales targets.
- Mentored sales team in applying effective sales techniques and delivering top-notch customer service.
Education
High School Diploma - undefined
St. Louis Park Senior High School
Saint Louis Park, MN06.1994
Skills
- Data Analytics
- Operational Efficiency
- Negotiation
- Performance Management
- Global Sourcing
- Vendor Management
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Leadership
- Customer Service
- Sales Management
- Strategic Planning
Interests
Golf, Travel, Cooking, BBQ
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- PERSONAL INTERESTS
- I love traveling all over the world to experience different cultures and food. A passion of mine is also cooking/BBQ and enjoy doing these in my free time.
Timeline
General Manager
Premier Wash Systems
08.2025 - 06.2026
General Manager
Safelite
12.2023 - 03.2025
Manager - Global Strategic Sourcing
Best Buy
09.2015 - 10.2022
Customer Care Execution Manager
Best Buy
07.2011 - 09.2015
Retail Manager
Best Buy
09.2008 - 07.2011
High School Diploma - undefined
St. Louis Park Senior High School