Tara Austin
Davenport
Summary
Extensive experience in customer service with a strong focus on client satisfaction and problem resolution. Transitioning to a career in animal care, bringing transferable skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork. Eager to learn and grow in the veterinary field, with a commitment to hard work and hands-on learning. Seeking a position as a veterinary assistant to contribute to animal welfare and support veterinary teams.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Store Leader
Kwik Trip, Inc.
Bettendorf
11.2024 - Current
- Trained new team members on store operations and customer service to enhance their effectiveness.
- Oversaw inventory receiving, stocking, pricing and returns by coordinating with vendors and directing employees.
- Implemented merchandising strategies to showcase promotional items effectively.
- Coordinated merchandising by planning floor layouts and displays, guiding resets and directing sales signage placement.
- Facilitated daily store opening and closing procedures for smooth operations.
- Oversaw daily operations by delegating tasks, managing shift changes and conducting keyholder duties to open and close each business day.
- Supported the Store Leader in staff scheduling and payroll tasks.
- Trained staff on daily duties and supervised and provided feedback, resulting in improved performance and customer satisfaction.
- Handled customer inquiries and resolved complaints to enhance satisfaction.
- Assisted customers, answered questions and resolved problems for amazing customer service.
- Coached employees to improve skills and performance.
- Oversaw inventory receiving, stocking, pricing, and returns by coordinating with vendors and directing staff to ensure product availability.
Assistant General Manager
Red Robin
Appleton
08.2022 - 11.2024
- Managed daily operations of the store, including scheduling and supervising staff.
- Assisted management in daily restaurant operations and staff supervision.
- Trained new team members on service standards and operational procedures.
- Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations throughout the establishment.
- Coordinated inventory management to maintain optimal stock levels and minimize waste.
- Monitored inventory levels and placed orders for new stock.
- Controlled business inventory to keep numbers beneath targets through expert oversight and usage monitoring.
- Supported financial tasks such as cash handling and daily sales reporting.
- Fostered teamwork across departments, ensuring efficient service flow during peak hours.
- Motivated and led team members to work together to achieve targets.
- Provided training, guidance, and support to staff members on proper procedures and policies.
- Improved guest experiences by promptly addressing concerns and providing effective solutions.
- Resolved customer complaints in a timely manner while maintaining a professional demeanor.
- Ensured that customer service standards were met or exceeded at all times.
- Implemented promotional activities to boost customer engagement and satisfaction levels.
- Assisted in the recruitment process by conducting interviews with prospective candidates.
- Prepared weekly schedules for staff members based on their availability.
- Disciplined and maintained staff to deliver hospitable, professional service reflecting business initiatives.
Shift Supervisor
Red Robin
Oshkosh
09.2015 - 08.2022
- Supervised team members during busy shifts, enhancing service efficiency and customer experience.
- Trained new staff on restaurant policies and customer service standards.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, fostering satisfaction and loyalty among patrons.
- Coordinated daily shift schedules to optimize workforce availability.
- Monitored staff performance, ensuring adherence to quality standards and operational excellence.
- Delegated tasks to team members according to their strengths and skills.
- Communicated clearly with employees regarding job duties, expectations, and policies.
- Performed cash handling duties such as counting money, balancing registers, and preparing bank deposits.
- Facilitated team meetings to communicate goals and updates effectively.
- Addressed any issues that arose during the shift in a proactive manner.
- Ensured all safety and sanitation regulations were met throughout the shift.
- Monitored food safety and cleanliness standards throughout the restaurant.
- Completed opening and closing duties to facilitate business operations.
- Assisted upper management with daily operations to meet standards of service and quality.
- Served as a role model for other employees by demonstrating professional behavior at all times.
- Provided feedback to employees regarding their performance in order to improve productivity.
Education
High School Diploma -
Craig High School
Janesville, WI06-2007
Some College (No Degree) - Journalism And Mass Communication
University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WISkills
- Client management
- Inventory control
- Team leadership
- Safety compliance
- Appointment scheduling
- Reception duties and support
- Reception area maintenance
- Problem solving
- Effective communication
- Time management
- Adaptability
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Procedure support
- Animal handling and safety
- Patient bathing and flow management
- Careful restraint techniques
Timeline
Assistant Store Leader
Kwik Trip, Inc.
11.2024 - Current
Assistant General Manager
Red Robin
08.2022 - 11.2024
Shift Supervisor
Red Robin
09.2015 - 08.2022
High School Diploma -
Craig High School
Some College (No Degree) - Journalism And Mass Communication
University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh