Travis Lorton
Fayetteville,AR
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated professional with over a decade of experience at Ozark Beer Company, excelling in production, sales, customer service, and management roles. Recognized for strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and leadership in high-pressure environments. Proven track record of driving sales growth, enhancing customer satisfaction, and maintaining operational excellence.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Cellar and Packaging Technician
Ozark Beer Company
01.2021 - Current
- Oversee centrifugation, CIP processes, and final product finishing to meet precise specifications
- Execute packaging in multiple formats while ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards
- Perform maintenance on food manufacturing machinery to minimize downtime
- Coordinate weekly pickups and sales orders with the VP of Sales and CEO
- Serve as a liaison between the company and a multi-state distribution network, ensuring seamless communication and operations
- Manage inventory using cloud-based and integrated SAP-based manufacturing software to ensure accuracy and efficiency
- Maintain compliance with federal and state record-keeping requirements and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- Handle hazardous chemicals safely and operate forklifts with proper certifications
- Trusted to use company vehicles for deliveries and logistics operations
- Known as “The Fixer” for exceptional problem-solving abilities, focus, and composure under pressure
- Various Roles |2014 – Present
Taproom Manager
Ozark Beer Company
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Managed operations of a second taproom in Downtown Bentonville, emphasizing hospitality, craft cocktails, and customer service
- Delivered hands-on customer service, ensuring a welcoming and high-quality experience
- Closed the taproom after lease negotiations fell through and seamlessly transitioned back to the production team
Sales Representative
Ozark Beer Company
01.2016 - 01.2020
- Led all sales efforts in Northwest Arkansas, maintaining and growing key accounts across Benton and Washington counties
- Increased annual sales from $1 million to $2 million through strategic account management and relationship building
- Provided unparalleled customer service, including draft system troubleshooting, on-site events, and hot-shot deliveries
- Played a pivotal role in promoting Ozark Beer Company’s brand through hands-on personal service and event execution
Packaging Operator & Draft Technician
Ozark Beer Company
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Managed all aspects of packaging operations, including canning and keg filling
- Delivered products, invoiced clients, and collected payments from accounts
- Achieved Micromatic certification as a draft technician, ensuring high-quality draft system installations and maintenance
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, ARBachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, ARHigh School Diploma -
Bentonville High School
Bentonville, ARSkills
- Technical Expertise: Centrifugation, CIP processes, draft system installation and maintenance, food manufacturing machinery maintenance
- Sales and Account Management: Relationship building, revenue growth, customer service excellence
- Operations Management: Taproom operations, logistics coordination, inventory management, SAP-based software
- Compliance: Federal and state record-keeping, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), hazardous material handling
- Leadership: Team building, problem-solving, adaptability under pressure
Accomplishments
- Spearheaded sales growth, doubling annual revenue from $1 million to $2 million during tenure as Sales Representative.
- Successfully implemented inventory management practices using cloud-based and SAP-integrated software, enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy.
- Maintained impeccable federal and state compliance records for manufacturing operations in a regulated food production environment.
- Trusted with the safe handling of hazardous chemicals and operation of forklifts and company vehicles, contributing to a safe and efficient workplace.
- Played a pivotal role in troubleshooting and resolving complex production issues, earning the nickname “The Fixer.”
- Established and nurtured long-term client relationships, enhancing the company’s reputation and market presence.
- Supported successful transitions between roles and responsibilities, demonstrating adaptability and commitment to the company’s goals.
Certification
- Micromatic Certified Draft Technician
Timeline
Cellar and Packaging Technician
Ozark Beer Company
01.2021 - Current
Taproom Manager
Ozark Beer Company
01.2020 - 01.2021
Sales Representative
Ozark Beer Company
01.2016 - 01.2020
Packaging Operator & Draft Technician
Ozark Beer Company
01.2014 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
University of Arkansas
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
University of Arkansas
High School Diploma -
Bentonville High School
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