Taia Battle
Washington
Summary
Dedicated and results-driven Hospitality and Retail Operations Manager with 8 years of proven leadership experience in the United States Navy. Recognized for delivering elite, white-glove customer service, highlighted by selection as the Executive Bartender for the First and Second Families of the United States. Expert in directing high-volume retail operations, managing complex inventories, and executing high-profile events. Passionate team leader with a strong track record of training personnel, optimizing daily operations, and driving revenue growth while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and discretion.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Retail Operations and Hospitality Manager
Military
2024.02 - Current
Elite Hospitality & VIP Client Relations
- Served as the designated Executive Bartender for the First and Second Families of the United States, delivering premier hospitality and maintaining strict security and confidentiality protocols.
- Provided white-glove customer service to exclusive, high-profile clientele, including senior government officials, foreign dignitaries, and executive leadership.
- Planned and executed large-scale corporate and VIP events for up to 200 attendees, managing event budgets up to $30,000.
- Coordinated all event logistics, including vendor contracts, catering, VIP attendance, and specialized on-site services.
Retail Operations & Product Management
- Directed the daily operations of a retail establishment, bar, and gift shop, successfully driving over $970,000 in total sales.
- Managed comprehensive product lifecycles, including purchasing, visual merchandising, and strict inventory control to ensure maximum product availability and minimal loss.
- Spearheaded a complete inventory overhaul and facility outfitting for a newly renovated retail space, ensuring 100% operational readiness by opening day.
- Managed a community wellness fund, successfully administering a $95,000 transfer to sponsor programs that improved the quality of life for community personnel.
Leadership, Training & Personnel Management
- Led, mentored, and managed a diverse team of employees, fostering a high-performance culture focused on exceptional customer service and operational excellence.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive training programs for new hires, specializing in retail services, point-of-sale operations, and premium hospitality standards.
Retail Service Specialist
Military
2019.04 - 2024.02
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and best practices to enhance team performance.
- Provided exceptional haircuts and grooming services, ensuring high customer satisfaction.
- Directed daily store operations, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
- Supervised daily operations of storeroom, ensuring efficient inventory management and organization.
- Maintained all Services while on three 9 month deployments
Education
Associate of Science - Business Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, NH2026-12
Skills
- Guest relations management
- Customer service
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Retail operations
- Driven work ethic
- Financial auditing
Accomplishments
- Won the “Sailor of the Year” title 2 years in a row going up against 500 other motivated sailors.
- Supervised team of 26 staff members.
- Achieved over 40 First, Second Family, and VIP visits through effectively helping with execution and planning for the bar, giftshop, and lodging of the guests.
Certification
- Bartending License: FEB2024-SEP2026
- Certified Navy Barber: 2019-2027
Timeline
Retail Operations and Hospitality Manager
Military
2024.02 - Current
Retail Service Specialist
Military
2019.04 - 2024.02
Associate of Science - Business Administration
Southern New Hampshire University
Awards
- Received 4 Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals: a highly regarded military decoration awarded to junior personnel within the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. It is used to recognize outstanding achievements or sustained meritorious service that clearly exceeds normal expectations.
- Got Meritoriously Advanced 2 times because I was Performing at the Next Level: performing the duties and demonstrating the leadership maturity of the higher rank, Standout Performer: Consistently outshine their peers in daily operations, emergency scenarios, and command leadership, and Crucial to the Mission: made an undeniable, direct impact on the ship or unit's readiness and success.
- Received Presidential Service Badge: It is awarded to service members who are detailed to directly support the President of the United States.
Once awarded, it is worn on the uniform as a permanent symbol of trust, professionalism, and proximity to the Commander-in-Chief.