Sonia Castelan
Laurel,MD
Summary
Seasoned Learning and Development Director offering 8 years of experience in educational leadership positions. Focused on building and enhancing relationships, meeting service needs and maintaining smooth administration of all department operations. Desires growth-oriented position in dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
Director of Learning and Development and Store Operations
Colada Shop
Fairfax, VA
08.2023 - Current
- Managed budget of $1000 for LMS instruction of 100 students
- Provided ongoing coaching and support to management teams in their efforts to develop strong workplace cultures centered around learning and development opportunities
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on industry trends by attending conferences, workshops, and networking events
- Collaborated with department heads to identify skill gaps and tailor training programs accordingly
- Championed culture of continuous learning within organization, fostering environment of growth and development for all employees
- Streamlined onboarding processes for new hires, reducing time-to-full productivity
- Streamlined onboarding processes for new hires, reducing time to full productivity
- Oversaw employee certification processes and ensured compliance with relevant industry standards
- Implemented system to track employee progress in training programs, allowing for data-driven decision-making regarding future offerings
Office Manager
Stein Legal LLC
Takoma, Maryland
08.2022 - 09.2023
- Spearheaded operational enhancements across firm, targeting inefficiencies to boost productivity, efficiency, and service quality
- Championed adoption of technology solutions, improving operational flow and fostering better communication and collaboration
- Oversaw recruitment, training, and supervision of legal professionals and support staff, ensuring optimal staffing and supportive work environment
- Conducted performance assessments, delivering feedback and coaching to elevate team performance
- Maintained strong client relationships in collaboration with firm partners and attorneys, prioritizing client satisfaction and addressing concerns promptly
- Ensured efficient workflow and effective communication among attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, adhering to established office procedures
- Managed financial operations while tracking payments, including billing, invoicing, and client accounts
- Analyzed financial data to guide budgeting, cost management, and revenue enhancement strategies
- Generated and reviewed operational reports, utilizing key performance indicators to inform strategic decisions and operational enhancements.
- Managed anywhere from 50-100 calls day from new and existing clients
- Increased sales by 60% from 18K to 30k week
Senior General Manager
Levain Bakery
Bethesda, Maryland
04.2021 - 07.2021
- Fostered community engagement through social media, forums, and events, building solid connections and addressing inquiries to enhance brand presence and loyalty
- Developed content aligned with community interests and bakery's brand objectives, ensuring it resonated with audience
- Worked with marketing, customer support, and product development teams to ensure community initiatives supported wider business goals
- Served as mentor and trainer for team members, focusing on professional development and recognizing high-potential individuals from various backgrounds
- Promoted inclusive and positive work environment, contributing to high employee satisfaction and engagement levels
- Collaborated with operations, finance, and HR departments on significant projects, including refining operational processes, financial planning, and team development
- Conducted strategic analysis of sales, customer engagement, and operational efficiency to recommend actionable improvements for business growth and performance optimization.
- Increased sales by 15% from 30K to 34.5K week
Senior General Manager
Pret A Manger
Washington , DC
08.2008 - 03.2021
- Oversaw operations across New York, Boston, and Washington, DC, managing staffing, budgeting, customer service, and quality assurance
- Led diverse team, establishing performance standards and nurturing constructive work environment
- Developed strategic plans to align with company goals, ensuring operational efficiency and profitability
- Enhanced customer service, spearheading initiatives for continuous improvement
- Analyzed financial data to inform resource optimization and profit maximization
- Implemented process improvements, boosting productivity and quality
- Drove sales growth and market share expansion
- Led successful launch of multiple stores in DC Area, managing all aspects from location scouting to staff training
- Coordinated with various departments to ensure seamless shop openings
- Established and monitored quality and operational standards for new locations
- Managed staffing, inventory control, and day-to-day operations, focusing on excellent service delivery
- Directed Training and Development for DC area management and staff, identifying needs and delivering tailored programs
- Supported general managers in their professional development, particularly in people management
- Crafted and executed performance management frameworks, enhancing employee engagement and productivity
- Led HR initiatives, aligning strategies with organizational objectives and fostering positive and inclusive workplace
- Managed recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations, ensuring compliance with employment laws.
- Managed various size shops ranging from 20K to 100K weekly
Education
BBA -
Strayer University
Washington, DC 12.2021 - Current
Skills
Accreditation standards
Operational Efficiency
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
Project Management
Communication Skills
Customer Focus
Technology Proficiency
Risk Management
Data Analysis and Reporting
Compliance and Quality Control
Bilingual, fluent in Spanish & English
Team Management
Adaptive Learning
Accreditation standards
Community Service
- City of Takoma/Langley Crossroads Development Authority, Board of Directors
- World Central Kitchen, Volunteer
Timeline
Director of Learning and Development and Store Operations
Colada Shop
08.2023 - Current
Office Manager
Stein Legal LLC
08.2022 - 09.2023
BBA -
Strayer University
12.2021 - Current
Senior General Manager
Levain Bakery
04.2021 - 07.2021
Senior General Manager
Pret A Manger
08.2008 - 03.2021