Zannie Barker
Atlanta,Georgia
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven General Manager with extensive experience in retail operations, team leadership, and customer service. Proven expertise in driving profitability, reducing shrink, and developing high-performing teams. Recognized for outstanding sales performance, operational excellence, and exceptional customer satisfaction.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Store Team Leader/General Manager
Party City
McDonough, Georgia
09.2008 - Current
- Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for a high-volume retail location, achieving consistent growth in sales and customer satisfaction
- Ensure compliance with corporate standards, cash handling procedures, and operational policies, mitigating risks and safeguarding company assets
- Serve as go-to resource for questions and support for other stores, fostering collaboration and consistency across the district
- Recommend monthly items to Regional Vice President (RVP) based on customer requests and sales trends
- Act as a traveling manager, assisting with store operations in other states, regions, and local locations
- Provide well-trained team members to support other stores during peak periods or staff shortages
- Develop and implement comprehensive training guides for new team members and store managers, enhancing onboarding efficiency
- Created daily and monthly guides detailing company programs, expectations, and key operational priorities as a part of onboarding for new members of management
- Design spreadsheets and tools to streamline efficiency and improve task management
- Produce training and hiring videos for company-wide use during peak seasons, improving standardization and preparedness
- Simplify pathways and shortcuts for navigation within company computer systems, boosting productivity
- Perform IT-related repairs at store level, minimizing downtime and reliance on tech support
- Participate in the Store Manager Training program, mentoring future leaders and contributing to company-wide initiatives
- Act as a test store for new merchandise and programs, providing critical feedback for rollouts
- Consistently achieve top 30% in overall KPI metrics, leading the district in several key performance categories
- Create detailed daily plans and FAQ guides for new team members, including merchandise identification and task prioritization
- Build and assimilate cohesive teams, fostering positive, high-morale workplace
- Lead interviews for new store managers and oversee operations for 2-3 additional locations to assist struggling stores
- Champion internal promotions, grooming team members for leadership roles within the organization
- Motivate and inspire the team through goal setting, recognition, and rewards ensuring buy-in and engagement
General Manager
Linens-N-Things
Morrow, Georgia
04.2002 - 08.2008
- Directed all aspects of store operations, including sales, merchandising, human resources, cash handling, and inventory control
- Created a guest-friendly environment, maximizing sales and delivering exceptional service
- Hired, trained, and developed staff, reducing turnover and fostering a professional work environment
- Controlled expenses and ensured efficient freight flow and inventory management
- Addressed complaints, resolved issues, and maintained compliance with company policies
Accomplishments
- Developed innovative training programs that streamlined onboarding and enhanced operational consistency as a District Trainer.
- Played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of new merchandise and programs.
- Demonstrated exceptional time management and prioritization skills, driving consistent results in fast-paced environments.
- Recognized for fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and excellence.
- Reduced shrink year-over-year through proactive loss prevention strategies and staff training.
- Spearheaded the district's highest rate of internal promotions by identifying and developing emerging leaders.
- Increased custom invitation and personalized order sales, earning multiple awards for market-leading performance.
- Played a key role in regional training initiatives, mentoring market trainers for specialized product offerings.
- Consistently exceeded customer service benchmarks, resulting in numerous commendations and recognitions.
- Increased sales in key departments from $120,000 to over $600,000.
Timeline
Store Team Leader/General Manager
Party City
09.2008 - Current
General Manager
Linens-N-Things
04.2002 - 08.2008