Kaitlynn Howard
Centralia
Summary
Dependable industry worker equipped for fast-paced work and changing daily needs. Serves customers effectively with attention to detail and hardworking approach. Seeks out opportunities to go beyond basics, improve processes, and increase customer satisfaction.
Knowledgeable, with solid background in managing retail operations, driving customer satisfaction, and optimizing store performance. Successfully led teams to enhance service quality and store profitability. Demonstrated leadership and problem-solving skills, ensuring smooth daily operations and effective inventory management.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
General Store Manager/F&I Manager
5W Trailers
Okawville, IL
01.2026 - Current
- Oversaw daily store operations to ensure efficient workflow and exceptional customer service.
- Trained and mentored staff on best practices in sales techniques and product knowledge.
- Managed inventory control systems to optimize stock levels and reduce shrinkage.
- Developed and implemented promotional strategies to increase customer engagement and sales growth.
- Analyzed sales data to identify trends, adjust inventory, and forecast future needs.
- Fostered a positive work environment through team-building activities and performance recognition programs.
- Ensured compliance with company policies, safety regulations, and operational standards for quality assurance.
- Managed financial aspects of the store including budgeting, expense tracking, and payroll administration for optimal cost control.
- Optimized store layout to enhance customer flow and maximize revenue from merchandise displays.
- Developed financing strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and drive vehicle sales.
- Analyzed credit applications to determine eligibility and mitigate financial risk.
- Collaborated with sales team to streamline F&I processes and improve transaction efficiency.
- Educated clients on financing options, warranties, and insurance products to support informed decisions.
- Oversaw compliance with federal regulations, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of industry standards.
- Established strong relationships with lenders to negotiate favorable terms for dealership financing solutions.
- Created comprehensive dealer incentive programs that ensured optimal alignment of interests between the dealer and the finance company.
- Maintained strict adherence to state laws regarding consumer disclosures and regulatory compliance practices throughout all transactions conducted within the F&I department.
- Operated forklifts to transport materials within warehouse efficiently.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline loading and unloading processes.
- Implemented safety protocols, reducing workplace accidents significantly.
- Trained new hires on safe forklift operation and warehouse procedures.
- Monitored inventory levels, coordinating with management for timely replenishment.
Senior Client Solutions Executive
Cox Automotive (Nextgear Capital)
Remote
02.2024 - Current
- Led client engagement initiatives to enhance satisfaction and retention rates.
- Developed tailored solutions for diverse client needs, driving successful outcomes.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline project delivery processes.
- Analyzed market trends to identify opportunities for service expansion and improvement.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with B2B clients to drive sales growth.
- Conducted market research to identify new business opportunities and client needs.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to create tailored product solutions for clients.
- Trained and mentored junior sales representatives on best practices in B2B sales techniques.
- Analyzed sales data to refine target strategies and improve overall performance metrics.
- Presented product demonstrations and proposals to prospective clients, enhancing product understanding.
- Negotiated contracts and pricing agreements, ensuring favorable terms for both parties.
- Expanded market share with strategic networking and targeted outreach efforts.
- Managed a portfolio of accounts, ensuring timely follow-up on leads and maintaining accurate records in CRM system.
- Generated leads through cold calling, email campaigns, and social media marketing initiatives.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and maintaining strong relationships with key clients.
Marketing Director
Pennington Auto Group
Salem, IL
10.2022 - 01.2024
- Built strong relationships with industry professionals and influencers.
- Devised marketing plans using digital strategies, print advertising, and word of mouth tactics.
- Created content and promotional materials to drive engagement and conversions.
- Deployed well-coordinated campaigns, events and public relations strategies to promote brand.
- Planned and executed events and marketing programs to increase qualified leads.
- Boosted brand awareness and generated leads while managing internal and external marketing campaigns and programs.
- Oversaw preparation of marketing copy, images, videos, emails, and other collateral.
- Created and managed social media campaigns to increase brand engagement.
- Launched successful digital marketing campaigns that achieved goals for increased website traffic.
Dealer Relationship Manager
Automotive Credit Corporation
Remote
01.2022 - 09.2022
- Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Resolved problems with high-profile customers to maintain relationships and increase return customer base.
- Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.
- Prepared sales presentations for clients showing success and credibility of products.
Business Development Manager
K&J Chevrolet, INC
Carlyle, IL
03.2020 - 12.2021
- Work closely with CRM, Vin Solutions, VAuto, and Autosoft
- Also work closely with
- Microsoft Office
- Collaborated in market strategies that were effective in attracting clients
- Successfully qualified customers to promote the right mix of products and services that led to new contracts
- Met and exceeded sales goals and key performance metrics each consecutive month
- Directed and coordinated activities involving sales of manufactured products, services, commodities, store events, and other subjects of sale
- Counted daily cash, prepared deposits, and updated financial records with current totals
- Established ambitious quotas and helped each team member implement personalized plan to achieve targets
- Taught the sales team how to connect with customers and build long-term, productive relationships
- Projected sales and identified less profitable areas by closely monitoring operations
- Build the website with photos and marketing strategies
- Manage social media accounts for the store.
Business Development Associate
Jack Schmitt Chevrolet
09.2018 - 03.2020
- Predicted client objectives to create customized presentations to promote company products and services
- Arranged client meetings, presented sales information, and closed sales to achieve sales targets
- Conducted new market development and cultivated potential clients using social media and other research methods
- Provided after-sales support using in-person visits, phone calls, and electronic methods building long-term, trusting relationships with account holders
- Trained entry-level staff to become valuable, effective salespeople increasing department success
- Interacted professionally with customers, informing individuals of sales promotions and driving product interest
- Engaged customers and built connections to drive long-term sales
- Resolved customer issues quickly to recapture the customer's loyalty and maintain the sale.
Dog Trainer
Off Leash K9 St.Louis LLC
04.2017 - 01.2019
- Conducted customer consultations and answered pet training questions
- Kept training space tidy and organized to promote safety during training and demonstrations
- Trained and maintained animal behavior and husbandry techniques for presentations to ensure quality
- Promoted, conducted, and instructed animals following established training curricula
- Performed leadership functions within show, exhibit, and holding areas
- Handled dogs with behavioral problems, including large, small, and aggressive dogs
- Ensured animals received highest quality care in safe, secure kennel
- Trained employees and customers on correct animal management protocols
- Developed and lead training programs focused on maintaining the desired behaviors for specific purposes.
Sales Associate
Best Buy
08.2014 - 09.2018
- Used POS system to scan customer purchases, calculate prices, and process transactions
- Restocked front lanes and displays, following established merchandising procedures and standards
- Provided accurate information to help customers quickly navigate store and acquire items for purchase
- Supported company mission and positive store culture through honesty, integrity, and high-quality customer experiences
- Contributed to store shrink-reduction goals and programs
- Monitored customers for signs of fraud and theft to prevent store losses
- Promoted credit and loyalty programs during customer interactions
- Processed returns and exchanges in line with store policies
- Welcomed guests and offered quick assistance to handle diverse needs
- Maintained knowledge of current and future promotions to provide accurate service and inform customer purchasing decisions
- Engaged customers and built connections to drive long-term sales.
Camp Counselor
Camp Ondessonk
05.2015 - 08.2017
- Discussed rules, activities, daily schedules, and traditions of camp to create solid boundaries for each camper to follow
- Supervised campers, creating positive and nurturing camp experience for each participant
- Attended regular staff meetings to discuss curriculum and activities for implementation
- Kept attendance to maintain constant count of campers
- Observed rules and regulations from local, state, or national regulatory agencies pertaining to health, safety, and care of children
- Taught campers about important outdoor skills, healthy living, and recreation
- Responded quickly to emergencies to offer skills in CPR and first aid., Answered the phone to take delivery or pickup orders from callers
- Supported servers by greeting tables after escorting to seats, providing water or taking beverage orders, and running food.
Hostess
T.G.I Friday's
06.2013 - 08.2014
- Reviewed and periodically updated seating chart to reflect open and occupied seating
- Managed reservations received through telephone or online interfaces and coordinated seating for appropriate dates, times, and party counts
- Maintained an even and orderly flow of guests from the reception area into the dining room or lounge, and informed customers of estimated wait times
- Handled banquet room and patio reservations for private and special events
- Maintained organized hostess station and restocked supplies
- Set-up and cleared tables at peak times to seat patrons more quickly
- Used the POS system to process credit card and cash transactions.
Education
High School Diploma, Diploma - undefined
Belleville East High School
Belleville, ILAssociate of Science - Veterinary Medicene
Southwestern Illinois College
Belleville, ILSkills
- Market and competitive analysis Strategic business planning
- Customer pre-qualifications Client relationship building
- Team building and leadership Administer budgets
- Organization Creative thinking
- Task prioritization Motivation
- Prioritization Public speaking
- Microsoft Office savvy Computer savvy
- Promotional Campaigns
- B2B Marketing
- Digital Marketing
- Project Oversight
- Messaging Strategy
- Web Traffic
- Networking
- Microsoft Office
- Scheduling
- Project Planning
- Sales Expertise
- Time Management
- Social Media Campaign
- Market Planning and Execution
- Brand Development
- Business Development Support
- Project Management
Timeline
General Store Manager/F&I Manager
5W Trailers
01.2026 - Current
Senior Client Solutions Executive
Cox Automotive (Nextgear Capital)
02.2024 - Current
Marketing Director
Pennington Auto Group
10.2022 - 01.2024
Dealer Relationship Manager
Automotive Credit Corporation
01.2022 - 09.2022
Business Development Manager
K&J Chevrolet, INC
03.2020 - 12.2021
Business Development Associate
Jack Schmitt Chevrolet
09.2018 - 03.2020
Dog Trainer
Off Leash K9 St.Louis LLC
04.2017 - 01.2019
Camp Counselor
Camp Ondessonk
05.2015 - 08.2017
Sales Associate
Best Buy
08.2014 - 09.2018
Hostess
T.G.I Friday's
06.2013 - 08.2014
High School Diploma, Diploma - undefined
Belleville East High School
Associate of Science - Veterinary Medicene
Southwestern Illinois College