Ethan Upshur

Strategy, Operations, and People leader with the ability to build successful workflows in a fun and cross-functional collaborative environment. Looking to share my expertise at an organization that values their people, customers, and encourages innovation.

Amazon: Vertical Start-Up

Duration: 6 mos - 1 yr

Description: Supported the successful launch of a new building, ensuring smooth onboarding and training of employees.

• Developed and delivered comprehensive training programs for 5+ different workflows across the site, focusing on operational processes, safety protocols, and company policies.
• Collaborated closely with Sr. leadership, HR, and floor leadership, to ensure training programs aligned with business goals and requirements.
• Utilized various training techniques, such as presentations, hands-on activities, and role-playing exercises, to enhance employee understanding and engagement.
• Created training materials, including manuals, job aids, and multimedia presentations, to support training initiatives and ensure consistency in content delivery.
• Monitored and evaluated trainee performance and progress, providing feedback and additional coaching as needed to ensure knowledge retention and performance improvement.
• Acted as a resource and point of contact for trainees, addressing questions, concerns, and providing ongoing support throughout the onboarding process.
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills and attention to detail, maintaining accurate training records and documentation.

Skills

• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strong instructional design and training delivery abilities
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient in training software and learning management systems
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Collaborative team player with the ability to work effectively with diverse groups

Walmart: Workflow Start-Up

Duration: 8mos - 1yr

Description: Successfully managed the end-to-end launch of a new workflow, optimizing business processes and driving operational efficiency.

• Developed a comprehensive project plan, outlining key milestones, deliverables, and resource allocation to ensure timely and successful implementation.
• Led contractors and support teams, collaborating with stakeholders from different departments, including operations, IT, finance, and marketing, to align objectives and execute the launch strategy.
• Conducted thorough analysis and assessment of existing workflows, identifying pain points and areas for improvement.
• Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to streamline processes, eliminate bottlenecks, and enhance overall productivity.
• Oversaw change management activities, ensuring smooth adoption of the new workflow across the organization.
• Collaborated with IT teams to configure and customize software solutions, such as workflow management tools and automation systems, to support the new processes.
• Established key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track the effectiveness and efficiency of the new workflow.
• Monitored project progress, addressing issues and risks proactively to mitigate potential roadblocks and ensure project success.
• Conducted regular meetings and provided clear communication to stakeholders, including senior leadership, regarding project updates, risks, and mitigation plans.
• Supported training team on developing training programs and materials to educate employees on the new workflow, ensuring comprehensive understanding and adoption.
• Conducted post-implementation reviews and gathered feedback to assess the impact of the new workflow and identify opportunities for further optimization.
• Collaborated with Sr. leadership- network VP's to evaluate the financial impact of the workflow launch, tracking cost savings, and operational improvements.
• Leveraged data analytics and business intelligence tools to generate insights and provide recommendations for ongoing enhancements and refinements.

Skills

• Strong project management and strategic planning abilities
• Analytical mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for improvement
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Proficient in workflow management tools and software solutions
• Change management expertise to drive organizational adoption
• Leadership and team management abilities
• Financial acumen for evaluating project impact

Walmart: Vertical Start-Up

Duration: 3mos - 6 mos

Description: Played a pivotal role in successfully supporting the launch of a new building, overseeing operations and ensuring a seamless transition for the organization. 

• Collaborated closely with Peers, Sr. Directors & HR to ensure all aspects of the building launch were effectively coordinated and executed.
• Developed and implemented operational strategies and processes to optimize efficiency and productivity in the new building.
• Oversaw the planning and execution of logistical activities, including equipment procurement, inventory management, and space utilization.
• Conducted thorough assessments of operational needs and requirements, identifying potential bottlenecks and implementing proactive solutions.
• Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts and service agreements to meet operational requirements and budgetary constraints.
• Developed and implemented comprehensive onboarding programs for employees transitioning to the new building, providing guidance on facility features, policies, and procedures.
• Collaborated with HR to address any employee concerns or challenges related to the building transition, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
• Conducted regular inspections and audits to maintain and improve operational standards, identifying opportunities for optimization and implementing corrective actions.
• Managed a team of operations staff, providing leadership, training, and guidance to ensure high performance and a cohesive working environment.
• Monitored operational performance metrics, analyzing data to identify trends and areas for improvement, and implemented action plans accordingly.
• Collaborated with senior leadership to provide regular updates on operational progress, challenges, and opportunities.

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management abilities
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Proficient in operations management and logistics
• Effective communication and stakeholder management
• Knowledge of facility management and safety regulations
• Budgeting and financial management skills
• Attention to detail and ability to multitask