Samantha Lautanen
Mansfield,OH
Summary
Dynamic and personable executive leader with 14 years of experience driving organizational growth, operational excellence, and team development. Accomplished Chief Operating Officer recognized for successfully scaling multi-location operations, building high-performing leadership teams, and implementing strategic initiatives that significantly enhance revenue and overall effectiveness. Expertise in talent development, fostering a strong company culture, and aligning business operations with long-term growth objectives positions organizations for sustained success. A commitment to innovation and collaboration ensures navigation of complex challenges while achieving ambitious goals.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Stone Mart
Columbus, Ohio
06.2012 - Current
- Provide executive leadership for multi-location operations, overseeing more than 50 employees across sales, logistics, operations, customer service, and administrative functions.
- Partner with ownership and senior leadership to establish strategic goals, operational priorities, and long-term growth initiatives.
- Played a key role in expanding the organization through the successful opening of three new facilities, increasing market reach and operational capacity.
- Increased annual revenue from $15 million to $23 million through strategic planning, operational improvements, workforce development, and organizational growth initiatives.
- Designed and implemented organizational structures that supported sustainable growth, including the creation of key leadership positions such as Warehouse Manager, Fleet Supervisor, Training Coordinator, and Human Resources Manager.
- Lead recruitment, succession planning, performance management, and leadership development efforts to build a strong management team and employee pipeline.
- Develop and mentor department leaders, fostering accountability, collaboration, and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Direct budgeting, forecasting, resource allocation, and financial planning to ensure operational efficiency and profitability.
- Implement company-wide processes and performance standards that improved consistency, scalability, and cross-functional communication.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on workforce planning, organizational development, and business strategy.
Owner and Lead Photographer
Samantha Lautanen Photography LLC.
Mansfield, OH
10.2020 - Current
- Developed and executed comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and client engagement.
- Oversaw all aspects of photography sessions, ensuring high-quality outputs that meet client expectations.
- Managed financial operations, including budgeting, invoicing, and expense tracking for sustainable business growth.
- Built strong client relationships through effective communication and personalized service delivery.
- Mentored junior photographers on best practices and technical skills to improve overall team performance.
- Curated a portfolio that showcases diverse photography styles, attracting new clients and expanding market reach.
- Leveraged social media platforms to promote services, resulting in increased audience engagement and inquiries for bookings.
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Achieved financial growth with strategic planning, cost control measures, and targeted marketing efforts.
Education
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) -
The Ohio State University
Columbus Ohio05.2013
Skills
- Executive Leadership
- Organizational Development
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Business Growth & Expansion
- Multi-Location Operations Management
- Leadership Development & Coaching
- Workforce Planning
- Financial Management & Budgeting
- Performance Improvement
- Team Building & Employee Engagement
- Verbal and written communication
Accomplishments
- Contributed to revenue growth of more than 50%, increasing annual sales from $15 million to $23 million.
- Successfully supported the expansion and launch of three new facilities.
- Built a scalable leadership structure by creating and developing critical management and support positions.
- Led and developed a workforce of 50+ employees across multiple locations.
- Established operational and personnel strategies that improved organizational effectiveness and supported long-term growth.
- Strengthened leadership development programs and succession planning efforts to create a sustainable management pipeline.
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
A relationship-focused executive who combines strategic vision with hands-on leadership. Experienced in leading growing organizations through expansion, developing future leaders, improving operational performance, and building cultures that prioritize accountability, collaboration, and professional growth. Known for balancing business objectives with employee development to create sustainable organizational success.
Timeline
Owner and Lead Photographer
Samantha Lautanen Photography LLC.
10.2020 - Current
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Stone Mart
06.2012 - Current
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) -
The Ohio State University