Import espresso/cappuccino machines from Italy to give to businesses in exchange for coffee purchases.• Oversee daily operations, inclusive of new business development, relationship building, budgeting, operations, vendor negotiations, and stakeholder agreements.

Spearheaded sales initiatives for the largest lumberyard and building materials business headquartered in Chicago with $21M+ in annual sales. Highlights include:• Led and mentored a team of 11 across inside sales, outside sales, estimating, and support departments in delivering exceptional client services.• Oversaw the development of sales goals, created new customer opportunities, and collaborated with staff to execute targeted sales strategies.• Cultivated, grew, and maintained relationships with clients, including contractors, developers, remodelers, and high-end homeowners.• Secured four high-volume accounts in 2017 that are projected to produce $100K-$1M annually.• Increased company close ratios by 25% as a result of implementing client follow-up• strategies, prequalifying leadings, and personally calling clients after receipt of estimate to review any concerns.• Implemented client retention strategies following the departure of outside sales staff, thereby keeping key accounts and growing overall business.

Directed purchasing and operations management efforts, maintained records, collaborated with vendors, and ensured the continuous availability of all equipment and supplies. Highlights include: • Reduced total inventory investment from $1.3M to $1.1M by leading operational efficiencies that better monitored inventory rates.• Swiftly problem-solved any issues with products or backorders and resolved elevated customer complaints. • Ensured smooth operations by personally filling any role needed, including dispatching, sales, millshop production, and scheduling. • Evaluated new product opportunities and new vendor relationships on behalf of the company. • Negotiated buying programs with vendors.

Co-founded and led a startup energy consulting and construction company. Established vendor and banking relationships from scratch. Highlights Include:• Established vendor and banking relationships from scratch. • Independently secured the company’s first three sales accounts, thereby maximizing credibility and establishing additional accounts. • Secured rebates for every job from utility companies and state agencies to dramatically lower the payback period.