Rick Wild
Arnold,MO
Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.
Walt Disney
Summary
Senior Operations Executive with 25+ years of leadership experience across large-scale events, logistics operations, production environments, and multi-disciplinary teams. Proven ability to streamline workflows, elevate safety and compliance, and drive operational excellence in high-volume, deadline-driven settings. Adept at vendor and stakeholder management, cross-functional coordination, and building high-performing teams. Recognized for strategic thinking, hands-on leadership, and delivering measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
Production & Logistics Operations
St. Louis, MO
- Operate filling and packing equipment, ensuring consistent output and adherence to production standards.
- Load materials into machinery and stage finished product (cases and kegs) onto pallets for shipment.
- Drive forklifts to load materials and finished goods onto trailers, supporting efficient logistics flow.
- Follow all SOPs, safety protocols, and sanitation requirements in a food-grade environment.
- Conduct process quality control checks to maintain accuracy, safety, and product integrity.
- Ensure proper timestamping, labeling, and documentation for all finished product.
- Clean production lines and facilities to maintain strict sanitation and compliance standards.
- Maintain production safety and quality requirements while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
- Work flexible schedules including weekends and holidays to support 24/7 operational needs.
Operations Manager
Informa Markets
St. Louis, MO
01.2015 - Current
- Direct operational planning and logistics for major trade shows, ensuring seamless execution and high client satisfaction.
- Coordinate on-site service requests, booth functionality, exhibitor support, and facility operations.
- Lead and supervise teams of 20+ including A/V, catering, and facility personnel.
- Manage contracts, fee collection, event booking, and promotional coordination.
- Oversee vendor and exhibitor relations, coordinate with law enforcement and EMS for safety and compliance.
- Resolve conflicts and negotiate agreements to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
Business Owner
Fusion-Worx
St. Louis, MO
01.2013 - Current
- Evaluate business performance data to improve operations, forecast needs, and identify growth opportunities.
- Develop and enforce internal policies to enhance efficiency and responsiveness.
- Oversee budgeting, accounting, purchasing, and payroll to maintain financial stability.
- Build realistic operational budgets aligned with cost structures and business goals.
- Apply decisive problem-solving and research to resolve operational issues quickly and effectively.
Vice President of Operations
VisionStream
St. Louis, MO
01.2004 - 01.2014
- Directed all operational functions, applying strong problem-solving and strategic implementation skills.
- Led cross-functional collaboration to maintain team engagement and achieve aggressive performance targets.
- Established management goals and tracking systems to support data-driven decision-making.
- Increased company profitability through efficiency improvements and performance optimization.
- Built and maintained long-term relationships with key accounts.
Carpenter Foreman
The Mash Group
St. Louis, MO
01.1987 - 01.2004
- Maintained accurate project records including materials, timesheets, client issues, and safety reports.
- Ensured compliance with OSHA and corporate safety regulations.
- Resolved employee issues through effective communication and leadership.
- Adjusted workflows based on individual strengths and production targets.
- Developed work schedules to maximize coverage and productivity.
- Oversaw hiring, training, and performance of new team members.
Education
High School Diploma -
Journeyman Carpenter, Cabinetmaking & Millwork
Automotive Technician, Automotive Mechanics
Skills
- Operations Management
- Event & Trade Show Logistics
- Production & Packaging Operations
- Workflow Optimization
- Safety & Regulatory Compliance
- Vendor & Stakeholder Relations
- Team Leadership & Training
- Quality Control
- Forklift & Material Handling
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Continuous Improvement
- Budgeting and Forecasting Tools
- Forklift and Material Handling Equipment
- Quality Control and Safety Protocols
Accomplishments
- Successfully led operational planning and logistics for major trade shows with high client satisfaction.
- Improved business performance and operational efficiency as a business owner through data-driven strategies.
- Maintained production quality and safety standards in a food-grade environment with continuous improvement initiatives.
- Increased company profitability and team engagement as Vice President of Operations.
- Developed and implemented effective work schedules and training programs as Carpenter Foreman.
Affiliations
- Member, National Association of Professional Women in Operations
- Certified Forklift Operator
- OSHA Safety Training Certified
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
Senior Operations Executive with 25+ years of leadership experience in operations management, logistics, and team leadership. Proven track record of driving efficiency, safety, and profitability across diverse industries. Skilled in vendor relations, workflow optimization, and strategic planning. Adept at managing large teams and complex projects with a focus on measurable results and continuous improvement.
Work Preference
Job Search Status
Open to workWork Type
Part TimeContract WorkLocation Preference
RemoteOn-SiteSalary Range
$75000/yr - $200000/yrTimeline
Operations Manager - Informa Markets
01.2015 - Current
Business Owner - Fusion-Worx
01.2013 - Current
Vice President of Operations - VisionStream
01.2004 - 01.2014
Carpenter Foreman - The Mash Group
01.1987 - 01.2004
- Production & Logistics Operations
Carpenters Training Center - , Journeyman Carpenter, Cabinetmaking & Millwork
Ranken Technical College - , Automotive Technician, Automotive Mechanics
Lindbergh High School - High School Diploma,