Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Training
References
Awards
References
Timeline
Generic

Vanessa Elsalah

Columbia,US

Summary

Over 15 years of experience in agricultural business and regulatory compliance, specializing in resource management, event planning, and environmental stewardship. Proven track record in process improvement and executive administration, with a focus on advancing environmental policies and community well-being. Strong stakeholder engagement and customer service skills, complemented by adaptability and a quick-learning ability. Committed to continuous learning and effectively navigating change in dynamic environments.

Overview

22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Server

Longhorn Steakhouse
Columbia, SC
03.2025 - Current
  • Developed rapport with guests and assisted in generating repeat business by providing exceptional customer service.
  • Ensured that each guest was served courteously, quickly, and efficiently.
  • Maintained records of transactions made during shift as required by law or company policy.
  • Maintained knowledge of current menu items, garnishes, ingredients, and preparation methods.
  • Displayed enthusiasm and knowledge about restaurant's menu and products.
  • Operated POS terminals to input orders, split bills and calculate totals.
  • Explained menu options to guests, offered suggestions and took orders for food and beverages.
  • Upheld high standards of sanitation in accordance with health department regulations.
  • Satisfied customers by topping off drinks and offering condiments, napkins and other items.
  • Prepared checks, itemizing total meal costs and taxes.
  • Responded efficiently to guest inquiries and complaints in a professional manner.
  • Garnished dishes and beverages to serve visually appealing menu items.
  • Informed customers of daily specials and signature menu items.
  • Filled condiments and napkin containers during slack periods.
  • Provided excellent customer service to ensure satisfaction.
  • Explained menu items, describing ingredients and cooking methods upon request.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely preparation and delivery of orders.
  • Greeted customers, answered questions and recommended specials to increase profits.
  • Maintained polite and professional demeanor to patrons to encourage inquiries and order placements.
  • Checked food before serving it to customers.
  • Checked with customers to determine satisfaction with meals, promptly taking action to correct problems.

Day Photographer

Strawbridge Photography
Columbia, SC
02.2025 - Current
  • Consult with clients to understand their needs and preferences for a photo shoot.
  • Tested equipment prior to use, verifying good working order.
  • Reviewed sets of photographs to select best work.
  • Ensure safety of people involved in photo sessions by following all applicable laws and regulations.
  • Train assistants on proper use of photography equipment and techniques used in the industry.
  • Captured candid images of student life during special occasions such as graduations and sports days.
  • Managed social media platforms, posting engaging content to increase visibility and client engagement.
  • Cropped, manipulated, and performed color balance for final images.
  • Set up and take down photography equipment at school events.
  • Used traditional or digital cameras along with tripods, filters and flash attachments.
  • Implemented safety protocols while photographing activities involving children.
  • Transferred photographs to computers for editing, archiving and electronic transmission.
  • Estimated or measured light levels, distances and numbers of exposures using measuring devices and formulas.

OWNER/CONSULTANT

Diosa Services, LLC
Columbia, SC
03.2022 - Current
  • Guided farmers and stakeholders in implementing environmental compliance strategies.
  • Served as technical advisor on environmental laws and regulations to ensure project compliance.
  • Prepared reports evaluating environmental assessments and their organizational impact.
  • Planned and executed initiatives addressing environmental management, protection, and sustainability needs.

EXECUTIVE EVENT COORDINATOR

EverNess Travel
Columbia, SC
01.2023 - 03.2025
  • Resolved complex travel issues using tailored solutions to enhance customer satisfaction.
  • Created unique travel experiences that consistently exceeded client expectations.
  • Evaluated client feedback to improve travel service offerings continuously.
  • Organized regular meetings with senior management teams for strategic alignment.
  • Cultivated lasting client relationships through strong issue resolution and communication skills.
  • Structured HR consulting services to support clients during organizational changes.
  • Conducted market research to identify potential business opportunities effectively.
  • Prepared reports summarizing progress against organizational goals and objectives.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATOR

EFI USA
Gaston, SC
11.2023 - 03.2024
  • Developed innovative operational processes, increasing efficiency across projects.
  • Created guidelines for evaluating and reporting on environmental assessments.
  • Conducted environmental reviews and prepared reports on associated impacts.
  • Oversaw implementation of laws and regulations for environmental program management.
  • Managed state and federal certifications to ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Fostered team collaboration to enhance project execution effectiveness.
  • Applied advanced problem-solving skills to resolve project challenges.
  • Implemented improved waste management systems to promote sustainability.

Research Manager

South Carolina State University 1890 Research and Extension
Orangeburg, SC
07.2022 - 11.2023
  • Enhanced hemp production through comprehensive research and data analysis.
  • Pioneered sustainable agricultural practices, significantly reducing resource waste.
  • Boosted minority farmers' crop yields by implementing innovative farming strategies.
  • Streamlined farm logistics to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Mentored over 30 interns, advancing their skills in data collection and research methodologies.
  • Refined data analysis techniques to increase operational precision in farming activities.
  • Oversaw hemp farming and production at SC State research demonstration farm.
  • Engaged with minority farmers to introduce emerging crops, expanding market opportunities.

AGRICULTURE MARKETING SPECIALIST

USDA Agriculture Marketing Services
Columbia, SC
08.2021 - 05.2022
  • Executed USDA Domestic Hemp Production Program according to regulations outlined in 7 CFR Part 990.
  • Developed and communicated sensitive information, fostering relationships with diverse stakeholders.
  • Prepared training materials for hemp program staff, state programs, tribal councils, and licensed producers.
  • Reviewed plans from states and tribes for compliance with hemp production administration.
  • Verified submitted plans for required elements, ensuring alignment with regulations.
  • Coordinated application processes for USDA-issued hemp production licenses.
  • Enforced compliance measures related to licensing, record-keeping, sampling, and testing.
  • Analyzed stakeholder inputs to enhance policies, improving compliance and operational output.

HEMP PROGRAM COORDINATOR

South Carolina Department of Agriculture
Columbia, SC
05.2019 - 07.2021
  • Scheduled weekly communications to outline multi-year strategies for Hemp Farming and Consumer Protection programs.
  • Conducted public outreach initiatives, educating farmers on policies, updated laws, and USDA guidelines.
  • Coordinated seminars and annual hemp events to strengthen community engagement.
  • Enhanced awareness of hemp policies through targeted seminars, resulting in improved compliance rates.
  • Evaluated event feedback to refine educational outreach strategies for greater effectiveness.
  • Fostered partnerships with stakeholders to advance research on hemp cultivation and regulations.
  • Provided tailored guidance to farmers for successful navigation of hemp farming laws.
  • Maintained comprehensive records of attendees and feedback for program improvement.

Agriculture Outreach Specialist

South Carolina Department of Agriculture
West Columbia, SC
05.2018 - 05.2019
  • Facilitated training sessions on best practices for community engagement initiatives.
  • Evaluated existing systems and processes against industry best practices to enhance efficiency.
  • Monitored operations and reviewed records and metrics to understand company performance.
  • Reviewed existing policies and procedures to suggest necessary improvements.
  • Determined consumer needs to provide products and services appealing to larger market.
  • Suggested proper irrigation equipment to apply pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers to crops.
  • Prepared reports required by state and federal laws.
  • Reviewed records of water intake, sanitary procedures, and suggested changes for Good Agricultural Practices.
  • Organized and planned informational and educational seminars for farmers interested in becoming GAP certified.
  • Received industrial hemp applications for the future implementation of South Carolina's hemp farming program.
  • Attended regulatory seminars for policy updates on hemp farming rules and regulations.

Administrative Office Manager

Cal Customs Interiors
Los Alamitos, CA
09.2017 - 05.2018
  • Boosted team productivity through implementation of new scheduling system.
  • Achieved cost reductions by streamlining office supply inventory.
  • Improved document retrieval efficiency with development of digital filing system.
  • Proposed workflow enhancements that eliminated delays after thorough analysis.
  • Enhanced financial transparency by coordinating detailed expense reports.
  • Ensured budget compliance through accurate management of financial reports.
  • Strengthened brand identity and team cohesion by leading uniform distribution initiatives.
  • Increased data accuracy via rigorous checking protocols.

Server

Zoves Mediterranean Restaurant
Irvine, CA
03.2015 - 09.2017
  • Delivered exceptional service to over 60 guests daily while managing multiple tables and coordinating with kitchen staff.
  • Processed payments accurately, balanced daily transactions, and maintained detailed order records.
  • Partnered with team members to streamline service flow and resolve guest concerns promptly.
  • Assisted in training new staff and shared product knowledge to enhance service standards.
  • Implemented efficient table management strategies and suggested menu improvements based on guest feedback.
  • Maintained comprehensive knowledge of menu items, garnishes, ingredients, and preparation methods.
  • Operated POS terminals for order entry, bill splitting, and total calculations.
  • Upheld high sanitation standards in compliance with health department regulations.

Pest Control Inspector

California Department of Food and Agriculture
Ontario, CA
06.2015 - 08.2017
  • Implemented pest control measures to combat Asian citrus psyllid and prevent Huanglongbing outbreaks.
  • Analyzed inspection data to enhance pest control strategies and mitigate risks.
  • Conducted meticulous aircraft inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
  • Streamlined data collection processes, boosting inspection efficiency and accuracy.
  • Developed innovative pest inspection methods to proactively address potential outbreaks.
  • Partnered with agricultural teams to implement effective pest control measures.
  • Ensured strict adherence to safety protocols during all inspections.
  • Evaluated pest control outcomes to optimize future strategies.

GREENHOUSE & FIELD SPECIALIST

Cal Poly Pomona University
Pomona, CA
09.2015 - 06.2017
  • Introduced innovative agricultural methods to enhance farm sustainability.
  • Executed meticulous plant care protocols, ensuring optimal health and yield.
  • Utilized advanced irrigation processes to improve water efficiency.
  • Implemented eco-friendly pest management strategies, significantly reducing chemical usage.
  • Analyzed soil health to develop tailored nutrient management plans.
  • Collaborated with team to streamline farm operations and boost productivity.
  • Maintained overall plant health through detail-oriented practices.
  • Resolved challenges effectively to contribute to farm productivity.

Student Advisor

Cypress College
Cypress, CA
12.2008 - 06.2014
  • Guided students in academic planning and career decision-making, ensuring informed course selections and degree progress.
  • Streamlined advisory processes, reducing wait times through implementation of efficient appointment scheduling system.
  • Collaborated with faculty to devise customized academic solutions, improving student success rates through personalized support.
  • Analyzed performance data to identify at-risk students and established targeted intervention strategies.
  • Maintained accurate records and ensured compliance with academic policies and regulations.
  • Conducted thorough analyses of student performance to uncover academic challenges and formulated data-driven intervention plans.
  • Provided resources for low-income families and individuals facing poverty.

REVENUE AUDIT ANALYSIS

UCI Medical Center
Irvine, CA
03.2003 - 11.2007
  • Led revenue audit analysis at UCI Medical Center, implementing systematic review protocols and strengthening financial controls.
  • Conducted comprehensive audits of revenue streams, identifying discrepancies and developing process improvement solutions.
  • Streamlined audit procedures, reducing processing time while ensuring accuracy in revenue verification.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to address revenue discrepancies and enhance audit protocols.
  • Developed analytical frameworks for revenue tracking, improving financial reporting accuracy and compliance.
  • Established a robust revenue validation framework, integrating advanced methodologies for financial oversight.

Education

MASTER'S DEGREE - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY

Unity College
ME, US
12.2024

BACHELOR'S DEGREE - AGRICULTURE SCIENCE, MINOR IN REGENERATIVE STUDIES

California State Polytechnic University Pomona
CA, US
01.2017

ASSOCIATES DEGREE - SOCIAL & BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE

Cypress College
CA, US
01.2014

Skills

  • Regulatory compliance
  • Project management
  • Process improvement
  • Resource management
  • Environmental compliance
  • Data analysis
  • Agricultural operations
  • Sustainability initiatives
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Policy development
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Problem solving
  • Customer satisfaction strategies
  • Innovative solutions
  • Client engagement strategies
  • Sustainable agriculture practices
  • Community outreach programs
  • Research methodology expertise
  • Decision making skills
  • Waste management solutions
  • Problem resolution techniques
  • Employee scheduling efficiency
  • Growth planning strategies
  • Staff development initiatives
  • Vendor sourcing and management
  • Revenue generation strategies
  • Networking skills
  • Communication proficiency

Certification

  • Produce Safety Certificate
  • Dean's Honor List
  • Soroptimist Award
  • Bernard Osher Scholarship
  • Criminal Justice Information Security Awareness Certification
  • Certification of Medical OPAS Booking
  • Certification of Medical Core 5290
  • Certificate of Medical Insurance Coding
  • Certification of Computer Applications for Medical Personnel
  • Certification of Medical Terminology
  • Certification of Medical Billing and Coding

Training

  • 2020 National Hemp Regulatory Conference, Florida (virtual)
  • 2020 SC State: The Next Wave of Hemp, Orangeburg, SC (virtual)
  • 2020 CJIS Security Awareness Training, Columbia, SC
  • 2019 National Regulatory Hemp Conference Minneapolis, MN
  • 2019 South Carolina Hemp Summit, Bowman, SC
  • 2019 Sustainable Agriculture Conference, Durham, NC
  • 2019 Southern Seed to Sale US Hemp Conference & Expo, Columbia, SC
  • 2019 Building Soil Health: Practices, Principles & Profitability, Clemson, SC
  • 2018 Southern US Hemp Conference & Expo, Myrtle Beach, SC
  • 2018 National Regulatory Hemp Conference, Geneva, NY
  • 2018 Produce Safety Certification, Greenville, SC

References

  • Audrey Davis, USDA, +1-714-398-9243, audreydavis@usda.gov
  • Brieana Barrera, Cal Customs, +1-714-343-2563, brieana@calcustominteriors.com
  • Angela Arzola, United Health Group, +1-714-785-8998, angelaarzola@yahoo.com

Awards

  • 2021 Featured in Grown in SC Magazine
  • 2010-2012 Bernard Osher Scholarship
  • 2020 Promotion to Supervisor SCDA Hemp Farming Program
  • 2020 Founder of South Carolina Women's Hemp Alliance
  • 2014 Awards Women's Soroptimist Scholarship
  • 2013 Bernard Osher Scholarship
  • 2011-2012 Outstanding Student Work Honoree
  • 2009 Dean's Honor Roll

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Server

Longhorn Steakhouse
03.2025 - Current

Day Photographer

Strawbridge Photography
02.2025 - Current

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATOR

EFI USA
11.2023 - 03.2024

EXECUTIVE EVENT COORDINATOR

EverNess Travel
01.2023 - 03.2025

Research Manager

South Carolina State University 1890 Research and Extension
07.2022 - 11.2023

OWNER/CONSULTANT

Diosa Services, LLC
03.2022 - Current

AGRICULTURE MARKETING SPECIALIST

USDA Agriculture Marketing Services
08.2021 - 05.2022

HEMP PROGRAM COORDINATOR

South Carolina Department of Agriculture
05.2019 - 07.2021

Agriculture Outreach Specialist

South Carolina Department of Agriculture
05.2018 - 05.2019

Administrative Office Manager

Cal Customs Interiors
09.2017 - 05.2018

GREENHOUSE & FIELD SPECIALIST

Cal Poly Pomona University
09.2015 - 06.2017

Pest Control Inspector

California Department of Food and Agriculture
06.2015 - 08.2017

Server

Zoves Mediterranean Restaurant
03.2015 - 09.2017

Student Advisor

Cypress College
12.2008 - 06.2014

REVENUE AUDIT ANALYSIS

UCI Medical Center
03.2003 - 11.2007

MASTER'S DEGREE - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY

Unity College

BACHELOR'S DEGREE - AGRICULTURE SCIENCE, MINOR IN REGENERATIVE STUDIES

California State Polytechnic University Pomona

ASSOCIATES DEGREE - SOCIAL & BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE

Cypress College

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