Tara Harris Retherford
Elwood,IN
Summary
Motivated and adaptable professional with a strong reputation for reliability, integrity, and a positive attitude in fast-paced environments. Recognized for excellent communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a natural talent for building strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and customers. Quick to learn new skills and highly flexible, with experience across diverse roles that require multitasking, organization, and attention to detail. Known for approaching challenges with creativity, resilience, and a solutions-driven mindset. Dedicated to contributing to team success while continuously growing both personally and professionally.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Inspector/Packer
O-I Glass
Lapel, IN
07.2022 - Current
- Conducted thorough inspections of bottles before customer dispatch to uphold quality.
- Efficiently packed lines to support continuous production flow.
- Checked pressures of bottles to meet regulatory safety standards.
- Documented bottle temperatures and reported defects promptly to Hot End.
- Ensured timely reporting of any defects to facilitate quick resolutions.
- I get notices for my hard work I put into my job.
- Conducted detailed inspections of glass products to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Collaborated with production teams to identify and resolve quality control issues promptly.
- Utilized inspection tools and equipment to assess product integrity and performance.
- Documented inspection findings and provided reports for continuous improvement initiatives.
- Trained new inspectors on quality assurance protocols and best practices in the field.
- Developed inspection schedules to optimize workflow efficiency and maintain production timelines.
- Led root cause analysis sessions to address recurring defects, enhancing overall product quality.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced inspection time without compromising quality standards.
- Prepared reports detailing findings of inspections, investigations, and tests.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations through meticulous attention to detail during inspections.
- Upheld codes and regulations governing materials, processes, and procedures.
- Delivered detailed reports on findings from inspections, helping stakeholders understand areas requiring attention or improvement in order to maintain regulatory compliance.
- Improved quality assurance procedures to minimize errors and increase effectiveness of inspections.
- Maintained up-to-date inspection and audit records for improved reporting and analysis.
- Identified potential hazards and recommended corrective actions, ensuring a safer work environment for all employees.
- Mentored junior inspectors, sharing industry expertise to enhance their skills and abilities in performing thorough inspections.
- Identified repair and upgrade requirements needed to meet safety and quality standards.
- Inspected and examined materials and finished parts and products for defects and wear to verify conformance with blueprints, diagrams, and template specifications.
- Enhanced company safety standards by conducting thorough inspections of equipment and facilities.
- Reduced the frequency of defects by closely monitoring production processes and identifying areas for improvement.
- Effectively communicated with clients and management to ensure alignment on inspection objectives, requirements, and expectations.
- Streamlined inspection processes for faster turnaround times, resulting in increased productivity.
- Conducted detailed building structure inspections to identify and resolve potential risks.
- Managed multiple concurrent projects successfully while adhering strictly to deadlines.
- Maintained accurate records of all inspections performed, allowing for more informed decision making regarding maintenance schedules and resource allocation.
- Streamlined inspection processes, reducing inspection times without compromising on thoroughness or accuracy.
Receptionist
Vertical Cold Storage
Pendleton, IN
03.2023 - 07.2023
- Checked in and out drivers efficiently, ensuring accurate records were maintained.
- Entered driver information into computer system for streamlined processing.
- Verified items being transferred to enhance accuracy and accountability.
- Fostered a friendly atmosphere to promote positive interactions with drivers.
- Coordinated communication between departments to streamline information flow and improve service delivery.
- Developed and implemented filing systems for efficient document retrieval and record-keeping.
Shift Manager
McDonald's
Anderson, IN
05.2021 - 06.2023
- Ensured food preparation met safety and quality standards.
- Maintained sanitary conditions to comply with health regulations.
- Collaborated in a fast-paced environment to achieve operational goals.
- Trained new employees, equipping them with essential skills for success.
- Conducted drawer counts to verify cash handling accuracy.
- Performed waist counts to monitor inventory levels.
- I did get promoted to the advertising manager.
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Managed inventory levels, optimizing stock management to reduce waste and costs.
- Coordinated staff schedules, balancing workload to maintain optimal service levels during peak hours.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to enhance employee development.
- Analyzed sales trends, adjusting strategies to maximize profitability during varying shifts.
- Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and job responsibilities, ensuring seamless integration into the team.
- Trained and mentored new employees to maximize team performance.
Sales Representative/ Data Specialist
TeleServices Direct
Anderson, IN
06.2016 - 03.2017
- Resolved 75 to 100 customer service calls daily, ensuring prompt assistance.
- Programmed and activated various cell phone models for customer use.
- Trained new employees on operational procedures and customer service best practices.
- Sold AT&T products while maintaining high customer satisfaction.
- Contacted customers to establish private internet lines with security features for businesses.
- Developed strong customer relationships to enhance client satisfaction and drive repeat business.
- Negotiated service packages to meet diverse client needs, increasing overall sales volume.
- Trained and mentored junior sales staff on effective selling techniques and product knowledge.
- Analyzed market trends to identify opportunities for growth and recommend strategic initiatives.
- Collaborated with marketing team to create targeted campaigns that improved lead generation efforts.
Bartender/server/cook
SOUTHPARK TAVERN
Anderson, IN
12.2013 - 12.2016
- Prepared and cooked food to meet customer orders efficiently.
- Managed inventory for food, beverages, and supplies.
- Trained new kitchen staff on operational procedures.
- Served food and drinks to customers promptly.
- Conducted cash handling and reconciliation processes.
- Maintained cleanliness of bar area and ensured proper organization.
- Restocked supplies to optimize service effectiveness.
- Crafted unique cocktails and beverages, ensuring quality and consistency in taste and presentation.
- Managed inventory levels, ordering supplies to maintain optimal stock for peak service times.
- Trained new staff on bar procedures, safety protocols, and customer engagement techniques.
- Implemented efficient workflow processes to enhance speed of service during high-volume shifts.
- Monitored compliance with health and safety regulations, maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
Bartender/host
Poblanos
Anderson, IN
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Sat customers down at a table.
- Took their food and drink orders.
- Trained new employees who came out onto the floor.
- Ran the customer's food.
- Made the customers drinks.
- Crafted unique cocktails and beverages, enhancing customer experience through creativity and attention to detail.
- Managed bar inventory, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste through efficient ordering practices.
- Trained junior bartenders on beverage preparation techniques and customer service best practices for consistent quality.
- Developed new drink recipes, contributing to seasonal menus and increasing customer engagement with innovative offerings.
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
Teleservices
AT&T
Anderson, IN
01.2012 - 06.2014
- Programmed and activated cell phones of all sorts
- Trained new employees who came out onto the floor.
- Sold Products for AT&T.
- Went over good selling points to my team I worked with.
- Sent in hourly and daily reports.
- Confer with company officials to develop methods and procedures to increase sales, expand markets, and promote business.
- Listen to and resolve customer complaints regarding services, products, or personnel.
- Provide staff with assistance in performing difficult or complicated duties.
- Monitor sales staff performance to ensure that goals are met.
- Hire, train, and evaluate personnel.
- Analyze details of sales territories to assess their growth potential and to set quotas.
- Direct and supervise employees engaged in sales, inventory-taking, reconciling cash receipts, or performing specific services.
- Plan and prepare work schedules, and assign employees to specific duties.
- Keep records pertaining to purchases, sales, and requisitions.
- I was awarded Top Seller of the year, along with them using my phone calls for training purposes
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
Customer Service Representative
ACS
Anderson, IN
01.2010 - 04.2012
- Managed 75 to 100 customer service calls each day, improving response effectiveness.
- Configured active cell phones across multiple models to meet user needs.
- Provided troubleshooting support for cellular devices, resolving technical challenges promptly.
- Resolved customer inquiries through effective communication and problem-solving techniques.
- Processed orders and returns accurately while maintaining high customer satisfaction levels.
- Utilized CRM software to track interactions and improve service delivery efficiency.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline workflows and enhance overall customer experience.
- Mentored junior representatives, fostering a supportive learning environment for skill development.
- Responded to customer requests for products, services, and company information.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and providing accurate information.
Cashier/team Trainer
ARBY'S
Anderson, IN
03.2006 - 01.2010
- Maintained a sanitary work environment to ensure food safety standards were met.
- Trained new employees, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge for success.
- Prepared food efficiently for high-volume consumption in a fast-paced setting.
- Collaborated with team members to enhance productivity and service quality.
- Contributed to store success by maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the facility.
- Addressed customer needs and made product recommendations to increase sales.
- Assisted customers with inquiries and provided exceptional service, resulting in positive feedback from shoppers.
- Resolved customer complaints professionally, leading to improved customer relations and loyalty.
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
- Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Veterinary Technology
Penn Foster
RemoteKaplan University - Health Science
Kaplan University-Davenport Campus
Indianapolis, IN04.2017
Associate's degree - Criminal Justice
University of Phoenix-Online Campus
Remote04.2017
High school diploma or GED - General Studies
John Hines Center
Elwood, IN12.2008
Skills
- Analytical capabilities
- Media communications expertise
- Proficient computer skills
- Developmental disabilities assistance
- Effective monitoring techniques
- Gastronomy and food production
- Efficient time management
- Effective writing skills
- Demonstrated Microsoft Excel use
- Top-tier customer service skills
- Effective phone etiquette proficient in word processing tools
- Demonstrated Microsoft Office usage in sales environments
- Efficient front desk handling logistics expertise in English language typing proficiency in sales and marketing complex problem-solving abilities personnel management reading comprehension communication effectiveness Microsoft Word critical thinking customer service packaging knowledge PowerPoint administrative capabilities data entry troubleshooting manufacturing inventory oversight electronics telecommunications customer service office work typing experience office administration assembly transportation management leadership door-to-door sales experience
- Time Management
- Customer service (10 years)
Accomplishments
- Improved inspection accuracy by adopting modern standards and technologies.
Timeline
Receptionist
Vertical Cold Storage
03.2023 - 07.2023
Inspector/Packer
O-I Glass
07.2022 - Current
Shift Manager
McDonald's
05.2021 - 06.2023
Sales Representative/ Data Specialist
TeleServices Direct
06.2016 - 03.2017
Bartender/host
Poblanos
01.2014 - 01.2015
Bartender/server/cook
SOUTHPARK TAVERN
12.2013 - 12.2016
Teleservices
AT&T
01.2012 - 06.2014
Customer Service Representative
ACS
01.2010 - 04.2012
Cashier/team Trainer
ARBY'S
03.2006 - 01.2010
High school diploma or GED - General Studies
John Hines Center
Associate of Applied Science - Veterinary Technology
Penn Foster
Kaplan University - Health Science
Kaplan University-Davenport Campus
Associate's degree - Criminal Justice
University of Phoenix-Online Campus