Hi, I’m
Shay Connelly
Villa Park,IL
Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.
Michael Jordan
Summary
Fostering connections with my clients is how I become personally and professionally invested in their success. I find great satisfaction in uncovering challenges for my clients and aligning them to the perfect solution that fits their business needs.
I lead my client interactions with empathy and compassion, which helps me to truly understand their experience. This allows me to make impactful changes to their business operations and increase brand loyalty.
Overview
14
years of professional experience
Work History
ClearPath HCM
Implementation Project Manager
02.2025 - Current
Job overview
- Provided expert advice surrounding system functionality to aide in data integrity, transitioned client processes from old system to more efficient processes within Paylocity.
- Managed stakeholder expectations through clear communication of goals, objectives, and timelines.
- Facilitated smooth transitions by planning hands-on training sessions for end-users during system rollouts or process changes.
- Implemented structured change management processes, catered to each client's needs, focused to minimize disruption during system transition.
- Provided client's with thorough requirement analysis and timely communication of progress updates.
- Enabled better decision-making through needs analysis consulting, designed specifically for each implementation project's unique requirements.
- Mitigated risks by proactively identifying potential issues and developing contingency plans for resolution.
- Ensured seamless integration of new systems with existing infrastructure through diligent testing, validation processes and cross department collaboration.
- Participated in post-implementation reviews to identify areas for improvement in future projects.
- Collaborated with team to cultivate resources and reference material for troubleshooting and maintenance.
- Conducted detailed summaries of future improvement opportunities when stakeholders opted to forgo configuration in ancillary modules.
Rarebreed Veterinary Partners
HR Consultant - Independent Contractor
09.2024 - 05.2025
Job overview
- Provided HRIS expertise through troubleshooting and training methods for HR administrative staff.
- Implemented an SOP to streamline the LOA process between multiple systems, built reporting critical to HR, Payroll, and finance teams.
- Developed an SOP for executing performance evaluations as a workaround for HRIS system limitations.
- Completed audit of state specific time off policy compliance for multiple states, implement new policies in HRIS system, audit balances to ensure carryover and accrual compliance.
- Streamlined HR processes for increased efficiency by automating manual tasks and reducing paperwork.
Paylocity
Client Engagement Manager
07.2021 - 09.2024
Job overview
- Managed complex projects from inception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
- Strengthened client relationships by developing and implementing strategic account plans.
- Implemented effective client retention strategies, reducing churn rates and increasing account longevity.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative solutions addressing unique client needs.
- Conducted regular business reviews with executive and C-suite contacts, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
- Analyzed client feedback data to identify trends and inform future initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall product experience.
- Negotiated contract renewals to drive retention initiatives across a book of business worth $8m in annual revenue.
- Mentored and developed junior team members, fostering an environment that encouraged professional growth and continuous improvement.
- Resolved escalated issues promptly and professionally, maintaining high standards in issue resolution times while preserving positive working relationships.
- Optimized internal processes to increase efficiency within the Client Engagement department, ultimately contributing to higher levels of client satisfaction.
- Streamlined communication channels, resulting in improved collaboration between teams and clients.
- Educated clients on new products or services to increase customer investment with brand.
- Collaborated with sales team to identify potential upsell opportunities and expand market share.
Paylocity
Account Manager
10.2019 - 07.2021
Job overview
- Developed highly empathetic client relationships and earned reputation for exceeding service standard goals.
- Managed a diverse portfolio of accounts, ensuring timely communication and effective problem resolution.
- Successfully resolved escalated issues, preventing potential loss of valuable clients while maintaining positive relationships with all parties involved.
- Maintained detailed records of customer interactions, ensuring accurate account information at all times.
- Answered constant flow of customer calls with minimal wait times.
- Enhanced productivity levels by anticipating needs and delivering outstanding support.
MSC Industrial Supply
Sales Account Executive
03.2019 - 10.2019
Job overview
- Managed sales cycle to maintain solid customer base.
- Mastered and constantly improved sales prospecting, follow-up and upsell processes.
- Conducted regular sales presentations to showcase company offerings and demonstrate product value.
- Researched potential customer markets thoroughly before beginning personal contacts.
- Increased sales revenue by establishing and nurturing long-term client relationships.
- Engaged in daily cold calls and followed up with small business prospects monthly to verify pipeline sufficiency.
- Monitored competitor activity closely to identify threats and develop counter strategies accordingly.
- Optimized CRM data utilization by keeping accurate records of all client interactions.
Macy's
Sales Supervisor
03.2018 - 03.2019
Job overview
- Managed second largest revenue department in the store alongside the Department Manager. Department’s annual sales volume was over one million.
- Oversaw daily operations of the sales floor, delegating tasks appropriately to ensure smooth functioning at all times.
- Collaborated with other supervisors to develop and implement operational improvements for increased efficiency.
- Resolved escalated customer issues swiftly, maintaining strong relationships with loyal customers while preserving company reputation.
- Increased store's profitability by re-merchandising inventory with attractive, eye-catching window and floor displays.
- Consistently met or exceeded monthly sales targets through proactive leadership and regular performance evaluations.
- Maintained sales staff by selecting, orienting and training ten to fifteen full-time and part-time employees.
- Conducted regular staff meetings to discuss goals, challenges, and opportunities for improvement within the retail environment.
- Created a positive work environment by fostering open communication and recognizing employee achievements regularly.
- Implemented loss prevention strategies, reducing instances of theft and shrinkage within the store.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends and areas for growth, implementing targeted initiatives to capitalize on these opportunities.
Sunglass Hut
Store Manager
09.2011 - 03.2018
Job overview
- Managed Store with $750k annual sales volume and team made up of an Assistant Store Manager, one sales lead, and ten sales consultants.
- Managed inventory control processes to restore back stock, control costs, and maintain sales floor levels to meet customer needs.
- Recruited and retained top talent, with focus on completing timely performance evaluations, providing positive feedback, and rewarding superior performance.
- Boosted employee retention rates by fostering positive work environment, providing growth opportunities, and offering competitive compensation packages.
- Increased average transaction value by upselling products, promoting add-ons, and cross-selling complementary items.
- Reduced shrinkage levels by closely monitoring security measures, conducting staff training, and implementing loss prevention initiatives.
- Created employee schedules to align coverage with forecasted demands.
- Collaborated with upper management to develop strategic plans for store growth and expansion.
Education
Willowbrook High SchoolVilla Park, IL
High School Diploma
Benedictine UniversityLisle, IL
Bachelor of Business Administration from Management & Organizational Behavior
03-2027
Skills
- Relationship Management
- Team Oversight
- Strategy Development
- Time Management
- Analytical problem solver
- Solution selling
- Client Base Retention
- Contract Management
- Cross Department Collaboration
- Project Resource Allocation
- Project Management
- C-Suite Business Acumen
- Client Advocacy
- Stakeholder Reporting
Timeline
Implementation Project Manager
ClearPath HCM
02.2025 - Current
HR Consultant - Independent Contractor
Rarebreed Veterinary Partners
09.2024 - 05.2025
Client Engagement Manager
Paylocity
07.2021 - 09.2024
Account Manager
Paylocity
10.2019 - 07.2021
Sales Account Executive
MSC Industrial Supply
03.2019 - 10.2019
Sales Supervisor
Macy's
03.2018 - 03.2019
Store Manager
Sunglass Hut
09.2011 - 03.2018
Willowbrook High School
High School Diploma
Benedictine University
Bachelor of Business Administration from Management & Organizational Behavior