Gary Prestidge Email & Phone Number

Local travel agency specializing in arranging worldwide cruises. Corporate customer base 1,000+. Travel Agent Selling and booking cruises for established and walk-in customer base. Managing 450+ client base annually.Promoted service base to current and potential client base via direct mail and social media contacts. Conducted competitive analysis of area and Internet-based agencies to maintain market cost and service levels. Coordinated all marketing and point-of-service sales resources. Performed speaking engagements to area groups to promote sales and services. Booked and tracked cruises utilizing VAX Vacation Access online industry booking system. Underwent extensive training and achieved top certification to book cruises with five cruise lines. Maintained $300,000 annual sales during recent economic downturn.

Ran entire business of both locations, with staff of 15-20 total. $650,000 gross annual sales. Hired, trained, and led staff. Skills centered on customer service, creating an inviting atmosphere, drink preparation techniques, and store operations. Maintained schedules for both stores. Managed all business operations, including purchasing, bookkeeping, payroll, and cash flow. Coordinated all marketing and advertising efforts, including print, radio, and Internet promotion. Greendale Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year, 2000. President of Greendale Village Business Association 2000 - 2004.Created Greendale Hay Days annual fall festival. Booked bands and other music offerings. Coordinated food and drink services. Garnered sponsorships and organized community volunteers. Conducted community marketing efforts. Led staff of five. Draws 5,000 participants annually.

Two specialty coffee kiosks located in Columbia and St. Joseph Hospitals. $100,000 annual sales.; Ran entire business of both locations, including staff of 10 at remote location.Established first independently owned coffee location in Milwaukee hospitals. Hired and trained staff on business operations and product preparation. Managed all business operations, including purchasing, bookkeeping, payroll, and cash flow. Coordinated all marketing outreach efforts, including promotion to staff and patient census. Conducted product presentations and coffee seminars to large groups.

Bachelors Degree, Management And Communications

Completed two semesters

Associate Degree, Marketing And Sales