James Cook
Chicago,IL
Summary
Versatile and dependable professional with extensive experience spanning operations management, customer service, education, training, retail leadership, and accounting. Proven ability to build strong relationships, manage daily operations, train and support diverse groups, and maintain organized, efficient work environments. Recognized for adaptability, strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to delivering high-quality service. Experienced in leadership roles as well as hands-on customer-facing and administrative positions.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
Substitute Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
01.2026 - Current
- Deliver instructional support in diverse classroom environments.
- Establish positive learning environments and maintain classroom management.
- Adapt quickly to changing assignments and student needs.
- Communicate effectively with students, staff, and administrators.
Store Manager
Extra Space Storage
01.2018 - 01.2026
- Managed daily business operations, customer service, reporting, and facility oversight.
- Built strong customer relationships and consistently delivered high-quality service.
- Coordinated sales activities, account management, and administrative functions.
- Maintained operational standards and supported business growth objectives.
Store Manager
Simply Self Storage
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Managed customer accounts, transactions, and daily operational activities.
- Resolved customer concerns and maintained positive client relationships.
- Prepared reports and ensured accurate cash handling and recordkeeping.
Sales Associate
Staples
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Assisted customers with product selection and purchasing decisions.
- Maintained merchandising standards and inventory organization.
- Supported overall store operations and customer satisfaction initiatives.
Store Manager
Uncle Bob's Self Storage
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Directed daily store operations while providing exceptional customer service.
- Managed sales activities, account administration, and facility presentation.
- Developed strong customer relationships and maintained operational efficiency.
Math & Reading Tutor
Academic Advantage
01.2012 - 01.2012
- Provided individualized and small-group academic instruction.
- Adapted teaching methods to support varying learning styles.
- Monitored progress and encouraged student achievement.
Classroom Assistant
Kumon Education
01.2011 - 01.2012
- Supported classroom instruction and daily educational operations.
- Assisted students in developing independent learning skills.
- Coordinated with staff and families to support student progress.
Store Manager
GameStop
01.2002 - 01.2011
- Led daily retail operations in a high-volume customer environment.
- Managed inventory, merchandising, customer service, and staff support.
- Built customer loyalty through strong communication and service.
Senior Accountant
PrimeCo
01.2001 - 01.2002
- Supervised accounts payable functions and accounting staff.
- Performed reconciliations, journal entries, and month-end accounting activities.
- Assisted with system implementation and process improvements.
Client Services / Project Management
Tecsys Inc.
01.1996 - 01.2001
- Delivered software training and implementation support to business clients.
- Developed instructional materials, user guides, and training programs.
- Managed client relationships and facilitated successful software adoption.
Staff Accountant
Rand McNally
01.1990 - 01.1996
- Managed reconciliations, reporting, and financial analysis activities.
- Developed spreadsheet-based reporting tools and process improvements.
- Supported accounting operations and corporate financial reporting.
Staff Accountant
Inland Real Estate
01.1988 - 01.1990
- Performed reconciliations, journal entries, and accounting support functions.
- Assisted with financial reporting and accounts payable operations.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Accountancy, Communication, Business Administration
Utah State University
Logan, UT09.1988
Skills
- Customer Service & Client Relations
- Operations & Office Management
- Team Leadership & Staff Development
- Training & Instruction
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills
- Problem Solving & Conflict Resolution
- Cash Handling & Financial Transactions
- Accounting Support & Reconciliation
- Process Improvement
- Inventory & Asset Management
- Administrative Support
- Organization & Time Management
Timeline
Substitute Teacher
Chicago Public Schools
01.2026 - Current
Store Manager
Extra Space Storage
01.2018 - 01.2026
Store Manager
Simply Self Storage
01.2017 - 01.2018
Sales Associate
Staples
01.2016 - 01.2017
Store Manager
Uncle Bob's Self Storage
01.2012 - 01.2016
Math & Reading Tutor
Academic Advantage
01.2012 - 01.2012
Classroom Assistant
Kumon Education
01.2011 - 01.2012
Store Manager
GameStop
01.2002 - 01.2011
Senior Accountant
PrimeCo
01.2001 - 01.2002
Client Services / Project Management
Tecsys Inc.
01.1996 - 01.2001
Staff Accountant
Rand McNally
01.1990 - 01.1996
Staff Accountant
Inland Real Estate
01.1988 - 01.1990
Bachelor of Science - Accountancy, Communication, Business Administration
Utah State University