Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Nicole Palazzo

Sheldon,SC

Summary

Dynamic equestrian leader with a proven track record at Brays Island Plantation, excelling in strategic planning and operational efficiency. Expert in budget management and high-end client service, driving membership retention and program innovation. Adept at cross-functional collaboration, enhancing member experiences while optimizing resources for sustainable growth.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Equestrian

Brays Island Plantation
Sheldon, USA
12.2015 - Current
  • Lead the operations of a premier equestrian program within an exclusive private community, overseeing care and logistics for up to 80 horses across Owner and plantation herds.
  • Direct a multidisciplinary team responsible for daily care, hospitality services, and member experiences, ensuring premium service standards and operational excellence.
  • Administer and optimize a complex annual budget, identifying cost efficiencies and aligning expenditures with organizational objectives.
  • Develop strategic plans that support long-term departmental sustainability, including capital investment planning, staffing models, and amenity utilization forecasting.
  • Serve as the primary liaison for member onboarding, enhancing integration and retention through personalized service and consistent engagement.
  • Lead initiatives to increase Owner satisfaction by tracking service metrics, expanding programming, and addressing capacity constraints through operational improvements.
  • Collaborate cross-departmentally to align Equestrian operations with broader community priorities, contributing to campus-wide decision-making and capital planning.

Owner/Operator & Trainer

Nicole Palazzo Training, LLC
Harlem, USA
01.2015 - 12.2015
  • Managed all business functions of a private training operation, including marketing, client relations, billing, and vendor coordination.
  • Delivered individualized equestrian instruction while maintaining oversight of horse care, staffing, and scheduling.
  • Cultivated a loyal client base by providing professional, consistent service and superior care management.

Trainer

Hidden Forest Equestrian Center
Augusta, USA
01.2012 - 12.2015
  • Instructed riders across all levels, promoting safety, confidence, and skill development.
  • Streamlined revenue collection and improved financial controls by instituting effective payment and scheduling protocols.
  • Built strong client relationships, resulting in increased referrals and business growth.

General Manager

Quiet Haven Stables, LLC
Appling, USA
02.2004 - 01.2015
  • Directed operations for a 25-horse facility, overseeing all aspects of care, staffing, and client service.
  • Maintained thorough health records and coordinated veterinary and farrier care.
  • Served as a trusted advisor and liaison to clients, ensuring high service standards and facility reputation.

Education

Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Marketing

Colorado Technical University
01-2015

Bachelor of Science - Animal Science

Berry College
Mount Berry, GA

Skills

  • Strategic Planning
  • Budget Management
  • Operational Efficiency
  • Cost Control
  • High-End Client Service
  • Membership Retention
  • Staff Leadership
  • Workforce Development
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making
  • Program Innovation
  • Program Expansion
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Community Engagement
  • Relationship Management

Timeline

Director of Equestrian

Brays Island Plantation
12.2015 - Current

Owner/Operator & Trainer

Nicole Palazzo Training, LLC
01.2015 - 12.2015

Trainer

Hidden Forest Equestrian Center
01.2012 - 12.2015

General Manager

Quiet Haven Stables, LLC
02.2004 - 01.2015

Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Marketing

Colorado Technical University

Bachelor of Science - Animal Science

Berry College

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