I ensured superior organizational effectiveness, productivity, and communication in a professional and convivial workplace environment, overseeing and liaising with clients, third parties, and our regional division, maintaining privacy and discretion, updating policies and client files, scheduling remote/local meetings and appointments, training additional staff hires in requisite protocols and best practices, employing Microsoft Word for communication, including scanning and faxing documents, as well as utilizing New York Life’s proprietary software for accessing and disseminating client information, ensuring policies and office expenses (including parking and vender fees) are paid expeditiously, coordinating with IT tech support for updates and technological resolutions, and maintaining office supplies and decorum.

I was a Tucson-based, independent children's bookstore owner and manager selling literary collectibles, mostly online, to individual buyers and dealers. I primarily sold first edition (first printing) children's books, many of which are autographed, though I also sold collectible titles from other genres. I received and process orders, print invoices, carefully wrap, weigh and arrange postage on site before shipping books to domestic and international buyers; the farthest shipment to date is Switzerland. I also compose and wrote book descriptions in Word, transferred that information to an online database (HomeBase 3), where the inventory was uploaded onto AbeBooks.com; from there, using Abe or other book search sites, my business and my inventory could be accessed any time of day, from anywhere.

Supervised and oversaw running and maintenance of the store. Responsible for opening and closing procedures, inventory control (ordering and purchasing), receiving, shipping, merchandising, marketing and customer service. Created and promoted strong business relationships with vendors, local and nationwide businesses, and individual and organizational customers. Provided friendly, quality customer experience to each and every customer. Generated specific promotions and advertisements based on the needs of the market or clientele. Responsible for daily balancing of cash, credit statements, bank deposits and financial reports. Cooked popcorn and made sucrose-free and traditional fudge throughout the day as needed, anticipating and responding to customer volume. Maintained proper food handling, safety, and sanitation standards while preparing food. Followed sanitation standards including washing cookware and utensils throughout the day and cleaning equipment thoroughly and in a timely fashion, according to sanitation guideline. Ensured store cleanliness and upheld health and safety standards. All Health inspections rated Excellent.• Increased store sales by over 20% exceeding productivity goals • Created new and innovative gourmet popcorn recipes, including Garden Herb and Maple Bacon

Developed, planned, scheduled, advertised, coordinated and oversaw all activity programs, including entertainment, educational, marketing, and vendor-related venues within a defined budget. Lead, managed and supervised program leaders and drivers, emphasizing customer service, resource management and strategic planning. Recruited, scheduled and supervised general contractor entertainers, educators, religious professionals, fitness instructors, and vendors. Researched, evaluated and organized community events (Easter Festival, political debates, fundraisers, live theater productions, concerts) and collaborated with corporate public relations and various media resources. Collaborated with all internal departments to provide needed support for programs, including culinary and facilities staff. Hired, trained, mentored, managed team members and oversaw their schedules. Developed, wrote, and published monthly program calendar, advertising collateral, and website content.• More than doubled the number of educational and recreational classes, entertainment and enhancement programs• First in the state of Arizona to offer Poolates® classes to residents and the Tucson community• Established innovative partnership with OASIS (non-profit national senior educational organization)• Established unique programming involving notable local talent: Conductorcise class featuring Tucson Symphony Conductor George Hanson, scheduled author presentations/signing, Native American dancers and singers, university guest speakers, artist retrospective shows (wine and cheese affairs), theatrical and live radio productions, and much more in more than six years as director.

Assisted in designing and planning of activities, taking corrective measures when needed to ensure success. Taught weekly writing class and led Arthritis Foundation Exercises classes. Began 12 page monthly newsletter for residents, staff and marketing. Created internal communication posters, activity schedules, memos, and marketing material.• Rewrote brochure (given to all potential residents) about building for 80th anniversary• Created, planned and arranged Cruise Ship week