Ruth Berenice Lara Garcia
Kalamazoo,MI
Summary
Skilled entrepreneur dedicated and solutions-oriented professional with an 18-year career in restaurant and business management. Expertise in customer service, business management, daily operations, and team leadership. Committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
BUSINESS OWNER
CLEAN4YOU
07.2015 - Current
- Founded and directed a minority-owned and staffed business with ten years of experience that provides reliable and trustworthy cleaning services to houses and businesses in Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo and the surrounding areas.
- Manage accounting, inventory, expenses.
- Hired and trained diverse staff.
- Established strong customer relationships through excellent communication and attentive service.
- Strengthened company reputation by consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations in terms of quality products/services offered.
- Managed financial operations to ensure fiscal responsibility, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
- Pioneered customer feedback system, utilizing insights to refine products and services continually.
- Mastered conflict resolution, maintaining harmonious internal relationships and ensuring focus on common goals.
- Developed and implemented cleaning protocols enhancing operational efficiency and safety compliance.
- Managed inventory control processes optimizing resource allocation and reducing waste.
- Established client relationships through effective communication, increasing customer retention rates.
- Analyzed market trends to adapt services, maintaining competitive advantage in the cleaning industry.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
- Established strong relationships with clients, resulting in increased repeat business and referrals.
- Analyzed customer feedback to identify areas for service improvement and implement changes accordingly.
MANAGER IN CHARGE
PANDA EXPRESS RESTAURANT
01.2019 - 05.2020
- Managed all aspects of food service operations, inventory, and quality control
- Enforced policies, food regulations, procedures and controls
- Supervised and trained employees
- Achieved sales targets and handled cash audits
- Developed training programs for staff, fostering skill advancement and operational excellence.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing discrepancies and improving accuracy.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement customer feedback initiatives, enhancing satisfaction levels.
- Managed scheduling and resource allocation to optimize workflow and meet business demands effectively.
- Mentored junior staff, promoting professional development and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Oversaw compliance with company policies and industry regulations, ensuring operational integrity at all times.
- Supervised day-to-day operations to meet performance, quality and service expectations.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized store environment to enhance the customer experience.
- Developed strong working relationships with staff, fostering a positive work environment.
- Monitored cash intake and deposit records, increasing accuracy, and reducing discrepancies.
- Oversaw daily cash reconciliations, ensuring accurate financial reporting and minimizing discrepancies.
- Completed regular inventory counts to verify stock levels, address discrepancies, and forecast future needs.
- Managed inventory levels to minimize stockouts while reducing overhead costs.
- Generated repeat business through exceptional customer service.
- Assisted in recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding of new employees to maintain adequate staffing levels.
- Promoted teamwork within the workplace by encouraging collaboration among staff members on various project tasks.
- Enforced company policies consistently while handling disciplinary actions when necessary with fairness and respect.
- Scheduled staff shifts to ensure proper coverage during peak shopping hours without exceeding labor budgets.
- Boosted employee morale by recognizing outstanding performance and celebrating team accomplishments.
- Conducted employee performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback for growth and development.
- Implemented staff training programs, enhancing product knowledge and improving customer service skills.
- Ensured compliance with all safety regulations by conducting regular inspections of equipment/operations within the store.
- Coordinated with vendors to ensure timely delivery of products and resolve any supply chain issues.
- Implemented loss prevention strategies, significantly reducing shrinkage.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and adjust inventory orders accordingly.
- Assisted in budget preparation, ensuring alignment with financial goals.
- Optimized scheduling to ensure adequate staffing during peak hours, improving service efficiency.
- Trained personnel in equipment maintenance and enforced participation in exercises focused on developing key skills.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
- Reduced waste and pursued revenue development strategies to keep department aligned with sales and profit targets.
- Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
LOADER OPERATOR
FedEx:Ground ( Seasonal)
09.2018 - 11.2019
- Operated heavy machinery to load and unload materials efficiently.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations during all loading operations.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline workflow processes.
- Conducted routine maintenance checks on loading equipment to enhance performance.
- Operated material handling equipment to ensure efficient loading and unloading of packages.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve fast turnaround times, increasing overall productivity.
- Enhanced package loading efficiency by implementing proper stacking techniques and weight distribution strategies.
ASSISTANT MANAGER
PANDA EXPRESS RESTAURANT
01.2009 - 01.2017
- Supervised staff and resolved customer concerns
- Ensured compliance and FDA regulations
- Managed restaurant operations, inventory and employee schedules
- Performed management leadership role, staffing, interviewing, and training
BARISTA (ARAMARK)
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HOSPITAL
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Starbucks Barista; prepare and serve specialty drinks
- Maintained inventory
- Trained new staff
- Prepared high-quality beverages according to established recipes and customer preferences.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of workstations, ensuring compliance with health standards.
- Operated espresso machines and other equipment, demonstrating proficiency in beverage preparation techniques.
- Provided exceptional customer service, fostering positive relationships and enhancing overall dining experience.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures, promoting consistency in service delivery and product quality.
- Implemented inventory management practices, reducing waste through effective stock rotation and ordering processes.
- Addressed customer feedback promptly, resolving issues to ensure satisfaction and loyalty among patrons.
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace for optimal productivity and safety.
- Promoted a welcoming atmosphere by greeting customers with a friendly demeanor and promptly addressing their needs.
- Cleaned counters, machines, utensils, and seating areas daily.
- Managed time effectively to balance both front-of-house tasks and back-of-house responsibilities during busy periods.
- Controlled line and crowd with quick, efficient service.
- Maintained regular and consistent attendance and punctuality.
- Maintained and operated espresso machines, blenders, commercial coffee brewers, coffee pots, and other equipment.
- Made and served brand-specific café beverages with focus on speed, quality and consistency.
- Assisted in inventory management to maintain adequate stock levels and reduce wastage.
- Educated customers on coffee offerings, promoting upselling opportunities and enhancing their overall experience.
- Adhered to strict food hygiene regulations, minimizing risk of contamination or illness among customers.
- Increased repeat business by providing exceptional customer service and building rapport with patrons.
- Solved equipment malfunctions swiftly, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous service.
LEAD OF HOUSEKEEPER
Motel 6 Hotel
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Managed guest check-ins, registration, and sales services
- Handled and coordinated room availability
- Assessed Accounts payable, bookkeeping and collection of payments
- Maintained a high level of customer service
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of guest rooms to ensure optimal guest satisfaction.
- Conducted regular inspections of common areas to uphold high standards of hygiene and safety.
- Collaborated with management to develop efficient cleaning schedules for maximum productivity.
- Trained new staff on best practices for cleaning techniques and use of equipment.
- Implemented inventory tracking for cleaning supplies, reducing waste and ensuring availability.
- Streamlined cleaning processes by introducing time-saving methods, improving workflow efficiency.
- Cleaned and stocked guest rooms by replacing used towels and linens vacuuming floors, making beds, and restocking bathroom items.
- Collaborated with other housekeeping staff to complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
- Vacuumed rugs and carpeted areas in offices, lobbies, and corridors.
- Used chemicals by following safety protocols and procedures to avoid burns and injuries.
- Hand-dusted and wiped down office furniture, fixtures, and window sills to keep areas clean and comfortable.
- Upheld high standards of sanitation in common areas, contributing to an inviting atmosphere for guests.
- Maximized efficiency of housekeeping operations through effective communication with team members and supervisors.
- Removed bed sheets and towels from rooms and pre-treated stains to maintain and restore linen condition.
- Ensured all rooms met hotel cleanliness standards by conducting regular inspections and addressing any issues promptly.
- Increased room availability by managing time wisely and completing tasks within designated deadlines.
- Engaged with guests on room requirements and amenities to promote overall satisfaction.
- Prioritized guest comfort through attentive service, responding swiftly to special requests or concerns.
- Demonstrated flexibility in adjusting work schedule according to fluctuating occupancy rates.
- Reduced the need for deep cleanings by consistently addressing minor maintenance issues.
- Improved overall cleanliness ratings by implementing new cleaning techniques and products as needed.
- Coordinated with the front desk to prioritize room assignments based on guest arrivals and departures.
- Operated electronic backpack vacuums and floor sweepers.
- Improved room readiness efficiency with thorough inspection and timely reporting of maintenance issues.
- Streamlined laundry operations, sorting and treating items according to fabric care specifications.
- Contributed to substantial decrease in guest complaints related to room cleanliness by adopting detail-oriented cleaning approach.
- Facilitated smoother check-in process by ensuring rooms were cleaned and ready well ahead of guest arrivals.
- Enhanced property appearance by contributing to outdoor cleaning efforts and garden maintenance.
- Maintained inventory of cleaning supplies, ensuring availability for all housekeeping needs.
ASSISTANT MANAGER
LITTLE GIANT RESTAURANT
01.2008 - 01.2009
- Directed employees, oversaw business operations, and resolved customer concerns
- Oversaw staff operations including scheduling and evaluating employee performances.
- Maintained an adequate inventory level
- Maintained a safe and clean work environment with respectful relationships
Supervisor of Factory Operations
CONTINENTAL LINEN SERVICES
01.2004 - 01.2008
- Translated documents, training materials, orders, and instructions
- Provided direct service to medical clinics and hospitals in MI region
- Complied with medical and safety regulation.
- Oversaw daily factory operations to ensure streamlined workflows and adherence to safety protocols.
- Managed production schedules, optimizing resource allocation for maximum efficiency.
- Trained and mentored staff on operational best practices and equipment handling procedures.
- Monitored quality control standards to maintain compliance with industry regulations.
- Enhanced workplace safety, implementing strict protocols and conducting regular inspections to minimize accidents.
- Implemented process improvements that enhanced productivity and reduced downtime.
- Managed inventory levels to ensure optimal stock availability, minimizing waste and reducing costs associated with excess inventory.
- Collaborated with senior management on long-term strategic planning initiatives aimed at bolstering company growth and profitability.
- Communicated factory operational needs, objectives and performance standards with senior management and earned full upper management support.
KITCHEN & ADMINISTRATOR MANAGER
BIG BURRITO RESTAURANT
01.2002 - 01.2004
- Managed team, trained staff
- Managed operations, inventory and quality control
- Prepared food under FDA regulations
Plant Nursery Worker
Zylstra Greenhouse
06.2000 - 08.2002
- Cultivated diverse plant species, ensuring optimal growth conditions and health of nursery stock.
- Operated greenhouse equipment for irrigation, temperature control, and pest management effectively.
- Assisted customers with plant selection, providing expert advice on care and maintenance requirements.
- Trained new staff on best practices for plant care and safe handling procedures in nursery operations.
- Translate to coworkers the orders of the day.
Education
Diploma - undefined
Loy Norrix High School
undefined
Kalamazoo Community College
Skills
- Bilingual (Spanish/English)
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Business Management
- Customer Service
- Payroll, Accounting & Booking experience
- Entrepreneur
- Diversity and Inclusion
Certification
- Safe Serv Certified
- Store Leadership Training Program (Panda Express)
- Landmark Leadership Forum
- Management Training KVCC
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
MANAGER IN CHARGE
PANDA EXPRESS RESTAURANT
01.2019 - 05.2020
LOADER OPERATOR
FedEx:Ground ( Seasonal)
09.2018 - 11.2019
BUSINESS OWNER
CLEAN4YOU
07.2015 - Current
BARISTA (ARAMARK)
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HOSPITAL
01.2015 - 01.2016
LEAD OF HOUSEKEEPER
Motel 6 Hotel
01.2010 - 01.2012
ASSISTANT MANAGER
PANDA EXPRESS RESTAURANT
01.2009 - 01.2017
ASSISTANT MANAGER
LITTLE GIANT RESTAURANT
01.2008 - 01.2009
Supervisor of Factory Operations
CONTINENTAL LINEN SERVICES
01.2004 - 01.2008
KITCHEN & ADMINISTRATOR MANAGER
BIG BURRITO RESTAURANT
01.2002 - 01.2004
Plant Nursery Worker
Zylstra Greenhouse
06.2000 - 08.2002
Diploma - undefined
Loy Norrix High School
undefined
Kalamazoo Community College