Robert Wanson
Chicago
Summary
Professional with robust background in directing and managing large-scale operations, consistently driving success through strategic planning and execution. Adept at implementing innovative solutions that enhance productivity and operational effectiveness. Known for fostering teamwork and adapting to evolving business needs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Corporate Operations
Automotive Technology Experts (ATE)
02.2024 - 03.2025
- - Directed all corporate initiatives and programs at ATE
- - Collaborated with C-suite executives to identify and develop new revenue growth opportunities
- - Managed Fleet Operations for over 300 vehicles, handling procurement, up-fitting, price negotiations, and distribution
- - Streamlined maintenance programs and costs effectively
- - Developed and launched an intranet for improved internal communication
- - Established policies and procedures (SOP's) to enhance organizational processes
- - Lead the launch of the Retail Glass and Connector Divisions
- - Supervised the Dispatch, Connectors, and Equipment Divisions
- - Collaborated with Field Operations to triple field staff within six months
- - Research and implemented the GPS tracking system for field vehicles
- - Achieved revenue growth from $1.5 million to over $7.6 million monthly in just twelve months
- - Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- - Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
Senior Director of Operations / Regional Manager
Leeds West Groups
03.2020 - 01.2024
- - Oversaw 13 automotive repair locations across Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin
- - Managed staffing, training, and development, driving sales and profitability growth
- - Achieved record sales growth exceeding $2 million annually for four consecutive years
- - Implemented a Google Review program, raising the average score to 4.5+
- - Led the division in sales growth and profitability metrics for four years
- - Cultivated a customer-centric culture and built a high-performing team
- - Led change management efforts to successfully implement new technologies and systems across the organization.
- - Developed and executed operational plans to achieve organizational goals.
- - Increased employee engagement by promoting a positive work environment that valued communication, teamwork, and recognition of achievements.
- - Enhanced customer satisfaction by focusing on continuous improvement of products and services.
Regional Sales Manager / Regional Account Manager
American Tire Distributors
02.2019 - 03.2020
- - Managed 36 Tire Pros franchise locations in Nevada and California
- - Facilitated business growth through coaching, profit optimization, and team development
- - Identified new business opportunities through conversion and acquisition strategies
- - Increased regional sales by implementing strategic marketing plans and nurturing key client relationships.
- - Organized regular sales meetings, providing comprehensive updates on market trends, competitor analysis, and new product developments.
- - Generated detailed sales reports and forecasts to analyze performance and track progress.
Regional Sales Manager / Franchise Business Consultant
TBC Corporation
01.2018 - 01.2019
- - Oversaw 21 Big O Tires franchise locations in three states
- - Focused on coaching, business planning, and profit optimization
- - Increased district sales from $15 million to over $18 million and profits from -$300,000 to over $1.2 million within nine months
- - Increased regional sales by implementing strategic marketing plans and nurturing key client relationships.
- - Contacted key accounts regularly and achieved high satisfaction scores by routinely re-assessing needs and resolving conflicts.
- - Developed and maintained positive relationships with clients in assigned sales territories.
- - Streamlined sales processes to improve efficiency, resulting in increased productivity and overall revenue growth.
Area / District Manager
Bridgestone Retail Operations
01.2017 - 01.2018
- - Achieved the highest profit improvement and second-highest sales increase in the region
- - Managed operations for nine Tires Plus locations and revitalized a declining area
- - Tripled profitability within nine months and implemented company initiatives
- - Developed high-performing teams through comprehensive training programs, regular performance evaluations, and ongoing coaching.
- - Monitored financial performance data closely to make informed decisions regarding operational adjustments as needed.
- - Drove continuous improvement initiatives within each location by regularly reviewing store-level performance metrics and identifying areas of opportunity for growth.
- - Boosted team performance by implementing strategic management practices and fostering a collaborative work environment.
- - Ensured compliance with company policies and industry regulations through regular audits, risk assessments, and corrective action plans.
- - Facilitated knowledge sharing between stores through regular meetings, conference calls, or workshops focused on best practices exchange among managers from different locations.
General Manager/Managing Partner
Bridgestone Retail Operations
01.1996 - 01.2017
- - Managed operations for five Firestone Complete Autocare locations
- - Fostered a customer-centric culture and mentored teams for career advancement
- - Consistently drove growth in sales, profits, and customer base
- - 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.
- - Maximized efficiency by coaching and mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, company procedures, and technology systems.
- - Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- - Fostered culture of continuous improvement, introducing regular review sessions that boosted team performance and morale.
- - Addressed customer complaints and feedback with immediate action, turning dissatisfied customers into loyal patrons.
- - Observed each employee's individual strengths and initiated mentoring program to improve areas of weakness.
- - Conducted regular performance reviews for staff members to ensure alignment with company goals and foster professional development.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Business Management
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL01.1996
Skills
- Sales Strategy & Growth
- Team Building & Leadership
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
- Profit & Loss Management
- Business Development & Consulting
- Project Management
- Performance Improvement
- Inventory Management
- Operations management
- Project management
- Team management
- People management
- Organizational development
- Staff development
- Financial management
Core Competencies
- Expertise in B2B sales and market penetration.
- Proven track record of managing key accounts and collaborating with C-suite executives.
- Committed to enhancing revenue and profitability while streamlining operations.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, Powerpoint and CRM software.
Timeline
Director of Corporate Operations
Automotive Technology Experts (ATE)
02.2024 - 03.2025
Senior Director of Operations / Regional Manager
Leeds West Groups
03.2020 - 01.2024
Regional Sales Manager / Regional Account Manager
American Tire Distributors
02.2019 - 03.2020
Regional Sales Manager / Franchise Business Consultant
TBC Corporation
01.2018 - 01.2019
Area / District Manager
Bridgestone Retail Operations
01.2017 - 01.2018
General Manager/Managing Partner
Bridgestone Retail Operations
01.1996 - 01.2017
Bachelor's Degree - Business Management
University of Central Florida
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