Claudine Gaj
Belchertown,MA
Summary
Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Shoe Sales Associate
Grainger Industrial Supply
06.2022 - Current
- Serviced multiple customers at once, multi-tasked and enthusiastically handled special projects.
- Selected, recommended, and helped obtain or locate merchandise based on customer desires and needs.
- Grew product knowledge and fashion expertise continually, helped customers find shoes to complement outfits and suggested items to match needs.
- Assembled promotional displays to increase brand awareness and attract customers.
- Participated in weekly sales meetings to discuss performance goals and strategies.
- Exceeded sales targets and quotas to contribute to overall sales goals and revenue of company.
- Achieved 3rd Place in Company-Wide Sales Volume across the entire company, demonstrating strong sales performance and commitment to achieving targets.
Independent Contractor
COURIER EXPRESS
05.2021 - 06.2022
- Coordinated the transportation and delivery of diverse items, including medical, industrial, and office supplies, for both business-to-business and business-to-consumer clients.
- Executed prompt, accurate deliveries with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring client satisfaction and timely service.
- Provided exceptional customer service to foster strong client relationships and drive future business opportunities.
- Engaged with clients to assess specific needs and recommend tailored solutions for optimal delivery experiences.
Outside Sales/Manager
SID WAINER AND SON
08.2020 - 05.2021
- Expanded sales through strengthening relationships with existing customers and prospecting new clients, including restaurants and food-based businesses.
- Analyzed pricing and competitor data to optimize sales strategies, using volume discounts to drive growth.
- Developed custom order guides to identify and capitalize on sales opportunities with clients.
- Resolved transportation logistics, quality issues, and other customer service challenges to ensure client satisfaction.
- Leveraged internal reports, including Excel spreadsheets and S2K Sales Force software, to monitor and boost sales performance.
- Collaborated with sales representatives across territories for seamless customer onboarding.
- Partnered with the inside sales team to drive sales and uphold high customer service standards.
- Gained expertise in extensive product inventory, focusing on seasonal variations in produce and specialty items.
Business Owner/Executive Chef/Caterer
THE MAGIC SPOON
01.1998 - 01.2020
- Oversaw comprehensive business operations, including menu development, food preparation, quality assurance, sales and marketing, strategic planning, budgeting, HR management, payroll, and staff training, ensuring consistently high-quality service for all catering clients.
- Designed innovative menus and seasonal specials for à la carte, banquet, and buffet events, accommodating clients’ dietary and cultural requirements.
- Prepared a wide variety of artisanal appetizers, entrées, desserts, and pastries tailored to client needs.
- Managed procurement of ingredients and supplies, sourcing fresh produce, meats, seafood, and pantry essentials from local vendors and fostering strong vendor relationships.
- Executed financial operations, including sales tracking, financial reporting, payroll processing, billing, and accounts receivable using QuickBooks.
- Regularly featured on the Mass Appeal lifestyle program on Channel 22, delivering popular cooking demonstrations.
- Earned high praise and numerous commendations from clients for exceptional catering service, enhancing The Magic Spoon’s reputation in the community.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Health Education
University of Massachusetts, Lowell
Lowell, MASkills
- Customer Service
- Safe Food Handling
- Sales Development
- Business Development
- Order Processing
- Product Sales
- Upselling
- Client Account Management
- Energetic self-starter
- Service-oriented
- Problem-solving skills
- Reliable and punctual
- Adapt to diverse groups
- Written and oral communication skills
Certification
Food Industry Certifications
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
- Food Allergy Awareness Certification
- TIPS Alcohol Certification
Awards
Small Business Recognition Award – Affiliated Chambers of Commerce (ACCGS), 2000
Professional Memberships
- Springfield Chamber of Commerce, Member (1999–2001; 2008–2013)
- Women Business Owners Alliance, Former Member (1998–2002)
- Young Professionals Society (YPS)Member, Ambassador, and Caterer (2018–Present)
- Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, Former Member (2007–2009)
- Business Network International (BNI) Former Member, Secretary/Treasurer, Palmer Chapter (1998–2003)
Timeline
Shoe Sales Associate
Grainger Industrial Supply
06.2022 - Current
Independent Contractor
COURIER EXPRESS
05.2021 - 06.2022
Outside Sales/Manager
SID WAINER AND SON
08.2020 - 05.2021
Business Owner/Executive Chef/Caterer
THE MAGIC SPOON
01.1998 - 01.2020
Food Industry Certifications
- ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
- Food Allergy Awareness Certification
- TIPS Alcohol Certification
Bachelor of Arts - Health Education
University of Massachusetts, Lowell
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