Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Wahela Joe

Lawrence,KS

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven professional with a proven track record across retail and food services, where I honed my visual merchandising expertise, customer service and teamwork skills. Excelled in boosting sales performance through innovative strategies and fostering collaborative environments and my abilities to work with varieties of customers. Known for exceptional problem-solving abilities and a commitment to excellence, I bring both creativity and analytical prowess to drive business success.

Overview

5
5
years of professional experience

Work History

Lead Merchandising Associate

Kohls Department Store
11.2022 - 07.2024
  • Developed comprehensive knowledge of products within assigned departments, becoming a trusted resource for customers seeking assistance or recommendations.
  • Assisted in the training and development of new merchandising associates, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Regularly reviewed competitor offerings to stay informed on industry trends while maintaining a competitive edge in merchandising strategy execution.
  • Spearheaded storewide initiatives to improve overall appearance and cleanliness, enhancing the shopping experience for customers.
  • Adhered to safety guidelines when constructing displays and moving merchandise, minimizing risks for both staff and customers.
  • Maintained accurate pricing and signage, ensuring a seamless shopping experience for customers.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop seasonal plans for product placement and inventory management.
  • Boosted sales performance by analyzing data and implementing effective merchandising strategies.

Cashier

McAllister's Deli
09.2021 - 10.2021
  • Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
  • Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
  • Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
  • Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
  • Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
  • Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
  • Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
  • Handled multiple payment methods securely, minimizing discrepancies and potential losses.
  • Contributed to store success by maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the facility.
  • Mentored new employees on cashier duties and best practices, improving overall staff performance.
  • Adapted quickly to new technologies implemented at POS systems, ensuring seamless transition periods for both staff and customers.

Hostess

Set Em up Jacks
02.2020 - 11.2020
  • Answered customer questions about hours, seating, and menu information.
  • Greeted customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience.
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills, balancing responsibilities such as answering phone calls, greeting guests, and updating reservation logs simultaneously.
  • Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times.
  • Supported servers, food runners, and bussers with keeping dining area ready for every guest.
  • Maintained a clean and welcoming environment, ensuring the comfort of guests throughout their visit.
  • Trained new hostesses on customer service best practices and restaurant policies to maintain high standards of service.
  • Worked with front of house staff to move tables and adjust seating to accommodate groups with special requests.
  • Proactively assisted servers during busy times, helping to expedite food delivery and maintain high levels of guest satisfaction throughout their meal.
  • Answered phone calls to take orders, give information and document reservations.
  • Completed daily side work and opening and closing duties without fail.
  • Organized, stocked and cleaned establishment's front lobby during shifts to maintain welcoming appearance.
  • Seated patrons based on guest preferences and seating availability.
  • Rearranged tables and chairs for large parties and retrieved high chairs for children.
  • Cross-trained to handle different restaurant roles, including bar, kitchen and to-go stations.

Front of House Employee

Chick Fil A
09.2019 - 01.2020
  • Maintained a clean and welcoming environment for guests, contributing to positive dining experiences.
  • Handled high-pressure situations with grace, maintaining excellent service standards even during peak hours or understaffed shifts.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing attentive service and addressing inquiries in a timely manner.
  • Performed opening and closing duties diligently, ensuring the restaurant was ready for optimal operations each day.
  • Assisted servers with delivering food, filling beverages, and retrieving items for guests.
  • Helped guests at tables when in need of assistance.
  • Contributed to team efficiency by promptly completing side work tasks during downtime periods.
  • Established welcoming atmosphere by greeting each guest warmly.
  • Supported back of house staff by relaying guest feedback and coordinating special requests or dietary restrictions.
  • Reset tables between guests by restocking low items and wiping down surfaces.
  • Utilized point-of-sale systems effectively to process transactions accurately and maintain financial records.
  • Balanced daily cash drawers accurately while adhering to proper cash handling procedures set forth by management.
  • Performed serving, cleaning and stocking to high standards and provided excellent customer satisfaction.
  • Maintained tidy and organized work area to preserve aesthetics and support cleanliness and quality standards.
  • Checked on dining areas frequently to clean up spills, wipe down tables and restock stations.
  • Replenished condiments, beverages, and supplies while maintaining cleanliness of service areas.

Apprentice Artist

VanGo
02.2019 - 05.2019
  • Expanded knowledge of various artistic mediums through hands-on experimentation under expert guidance.
  • Continuously sought opportunities for professional growth by attending workshops, training sessions, and conferences related to the arts industry.
  • Collaborated on public art projects that added visual appeal to local communities, enhancing overall aesthetics.
  • Applied time management skills effectively in completing assigned tasks within deadlines consistently.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace to ensure a productive environment for all artists involved.
  • Fostered a positive work environment by demonstrating professionalism and respect towards colleagues at all times.
  • Developed strong communication skills while collaborating with fellow artists on group projects.
  • Gained experience working with clients by attending meetings and contributing to project discussions.
  • Supported the creation of original artwork, aiding in design concepts and execution for client satisfaction.
  • Assisted in preparing materials for workshops, ensuring smooth delivery of instructional content for attendees.
  • Participated in creative brainstorming sessions to develop new ideas or improve existing ones.
  • Consulted with clients to discuss commission ideas and style preferences to create mutually agreeable project parameters.
  • Worked with clients to understand desired outcomes and requirements.
  • Collaborated with other artists on various art projects and installations.

Education

High School Diploma -

Lawrence High School
1901 Louisiana St.
05.2022

Skills

Visual Merchandising Expertise

Timeline

Lead Merchandising Associate

Kohls Department Store
11.2022 - 07.2024

Cashier

McAllister's Deli
09.2021 - 10.2021

Hostess

Set Em up Jacks
02.2020 - 11.2020

Front of House Employee

Chick Fil A
09.2019 - 01.2020

Apprentice Artist

VanGo
02.2019 - 05.2019

High School Diploma -

Lawrence High School
Wahela Joe