Paula-Ann Cummings Dunn
Chicago,IL
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented professional with over 3 years of experience in restaurant management, dispatch operations, and executive assistance. Adept at overseeing daily operations, driving operational efficiency, optimizing workflows, and delivering superior customer service. Proven track record of managing teams, ensuring seamless service delivery, and maintaining a strong focus on business profitability and employee development. Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to thrive in high-pressure environments.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Executive Assistant
Michelle Ronay
Chicago, Illinois
03.2021 - Current
- Provided high-level administrative support to the CEO and executive team, managing complex calendars, travel arrangements, and meetings
- Coordinated and organized company events, ensuring all logistics and materials were handled seamlessly
- Prepared reports, presentations, and confidential correspondence, maintaining strict confidentiality and accuracy
- Managed communication between executives and internal/external stakeholders, improving workflow efficiency
- Assisted in HR functions, including onboarding, scheduling interviews, and maintaining employee records
- Leveraged word processing software to create proposals, letters and memos.
Dispatch Coordinator
Dunn transportation LLC
Skokie, Illinois
06.2021 - 12.2023
- Coordinated the dispatch of drivers and delivery personnel, optimizing routes and schedules to ensure timely deliveries and minimize fuel costs
- Utilized [dispatch software/CRM system] to track orders, manage delivery status updates, and handle customer inquiries efficiently
- Worked closely with warehouse teams to ensure accurate order fulfillment and address any discrepancies or delays
- Monitored driver performance, conducting performance reviews and implementing process improvements, reducing late deliveries.
- Resolved logistical issues by proactively identifying potential delays and implementing corrective actions
Restaurant Manager
Kingston Grill
Evanston, Illinois
01.2017 - 01.2021
- Spearhead day-to-day restaurant operations, overseeing a team of 5 staff members, ensuring high standards of service, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction
- Manage budgeting, inventory control, and procurement, resulting in a reduction in food waste and a improvement in profit margins
- Train, mentor, and evaluate staff, fostering a collaborative work environment and reducing employee turnover.
- Develop and implement strategies to boost sales, including seasonal promotions and upselling techniques.
- Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure consistent food quality and timely order fulfillment during peak hours
Education
Associate of Science - Business Administration
Oakton Community College
Des Plaines, ILHigh School Diploma -
Immaculate Conception, High School
Kingston, JamaicaSkills
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Inventory Control
- Staff Leadership
- Food & Beverage Service
- Quality Assurance
- Health & Safety Compliance
- Logistics Coordination
- Route Optimization
- Scheduling
- Team Coordination
- Problem-Solving
- Data Entry & Analysis
- Calendar Management
- Travel Coordination
- Event Planning
- Confidential Correspondence
- Office Administration
- Meeting Support
- Conflict Resolution
- Client Engagement
- Relationship Building
- Service Excellence
- Square for Restaurants
- OpenTable
- Fleet Complete
- Fleetmatics
- Microsoft Office
- Google Workspace
- QuickBooks
Certification
- CPR & First Aid Certified
Availability
Open to flexible working hours, including weekends and some holidays
References
Available upon request.
Timeline
Dispatch Coordinator
Dunn transportation LLC
06.2021 - 12.2023
Executive Assistant
Michelle Ronay
03.2021 - Current
Restaurant Manager
Kingston Grill
01.2017 - 01.2021
Associate of Science - Business Administration
Oakton Community College
High School Diploma -
Immaculate Conception, High School