Chris Thorns
Chicago
Summary
Operations professional with proven track record in optimizing processes and driving efficiency. Strong focus on team collaboration, strategic planning, and achieving measurable results. Adept at adapting to changing needs and leading cross-functional teams. Skilled in project management, process improvement, and resource allocation. Dependable and results-driven, known for enhancing operational performance. Experienced with overseeing complex operational functions and implementing process enhancements. Utilizes leadership skills to drive team collaboration and meet organizational benchmarks. Knowledge of strategic planning and resource management for optimal operational performance.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Operations Manager
Chalet Restaurant & Lounge
09.2023 - Current
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services.
Owner
Thorns Trucking & Transportation
01.2019 - 12.2023
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Hired and managed a team of 10+ employees
- Dispatched over 20 trucks on a daily basis
- Handled all financial documents and reports
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
Brand Ambassador
MKTG
01.2016 - 05.2020
- Establish relationships with key accounts to elevate brand awareness
- Curate branded events with key trade and influencers
- Maintain strong communication line with corporate headquarters, ensuring goals and deadlines were met
- Sustain effective communication with local distributors to meet case goals and implement sales strategies
- Manage and reconcile a budget of over $100k
- Increased case volume in over 10 new accounts
- Enhanced brand recognition by executing promotional events and engaging customers with product demonstrations.
- Boosted sales through effective collaboration with store staff to promote products in high-traffic areas.
Owner/Operator Truck Driver
Bolt Express
01.2014 - 02.2018
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Operated with safety and skill to avoid accidents and delays.
- Maintained compliance with weight limits, safety regulations, and transportation laws through diligent record-keeping and inspections.
- Maintained daily, legible DOT log book and submitted corresponding documents.
- Managed financial aspects of business operations including budgeting, expense tracking, invoice processing, and tax filing.
Director of Concerts
Southern Illinois University
06.2010 - 10.2012
- Built marketing strategies for the entertainment sector of the University and distributed online promotional material on behalf of the University to local businesses
- Prepared formal marketing proposals and prepared pricing timetables for 3 major concerts
- Controlled the entire entertainment budget for the University ranging from $100,000-$150,000
- Recognized and handled the marketing of the University's charitable events and organizations
- Managed a staff of 11 full time employees and more than 20 volunteers in implementation of a marketing movement
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations & Marketing
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL03.2025
Skills
- Problem-solving
- Team leadership
- Operations management
- Customer service
- Operations monitoring
- Operational efficiency
- Decision-making
- Planning and implementation
- Staff management
- Staff training
- Policies and procedures implementation
Marketing Profile
- Brand Positioning
- Product Placement
- Account Management
Timeline
Operations Manager
Chalet Restaurant & Lounge
09.2023 - Current
Owner
Thorns Trucking & Transportation
01.2019 - 12.2023
Brand Ambassador
MKTG
01.2016 - 05.2020
Owner/Operator Truck Driver
Bolt Express
01.2014 - 02.2018
Director of Concerts
Southern Illinois University
06.2010 - 10.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Public Relations & Marketing
Southern Illinois University
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