Originally hired as a Sales Representative for this full-line metals service center; was promoted to newly created position of Assistant General Manager after first year of employment. Heavy emphasis on quoting/selling value added first stage processing (flat laser, tube laser, beam mill, press brake, etc.) services to prospects and existing customers. 60-70% of sales include some form of value added processing. Company keeps inventory levels low to achieve its annual target of 9-12 turns; as a result, 50% of sales transactions require materials purchases to fill gaps in inventory.

Sales Representative and Purchasing Agent for industrial pipe, valves, and fittings distributor. Expanded the depth and breadth of company’s product offerings by diversifying its vendor base, and significantly improved profit margins while reducing materials costs by 50%. Made outside sales calls to generate new customer leads and relationships, and purchased materials to cover orders as they arose.

Founding Member and Chief Operating Officer of company engaged in metals sales and distribution activities to commercial and retail customers. Company’s primary focus was on the acquisition of used oilfield pipe/rod for use in decorative/ornamental applications. Was responsible for sales, purchasing, inventory management, and delivery of products to customers’ facilities. Generated leads and new business through cold calls, customer referrals, print media advertising, and a website.

Sales Representative for full-line metals service center. Worked with a diverse customer base, filling orders from company stock or by acquisition of materials through a group of specialty metals vendors. By building relationships with customers and providing superior service before and after the sale, was able to consistently generate highest gross profit margins of any salesman in Joplin office.

Branch Manager of full-service banking office staffed by eight employees. Functioned as a commercial, real estate and consumer lender, and also handled deposit products as needed. Branch growth was obtained through outside sales calls and cross-selling of services to existing customers. Actively involved in various business and civic organizations and events, including the Chamber of Commerce and United Way.

As Chief Executive Officer, supervised problem bank operating under an FDIC Memorandum of Understanding. Also managed an accounts receivable factoring operation which was affiliated with the bank, and employed 20+ people. Engaged in all types of lending activities, and handled matters related to regulatory compliance. During this period, bank significantly increased local lending activities, and established/re-established customer relationships throughout the area. Initiated automation of the loan and deposit functions, and supervised conversion from an “in house” computer system to an outside service bureau.

As Vice President-Administration, was responsible for managing most problem credits (commercial and real estate), and handled negotiations with these borrowers, coordinated litigation activities, and supervised subsequent asset liquidations. Served as an advisory director of the bank and its affiliated Southgate Trust Company, and was a member of the Asset/Liability Management and Budget committees.As Loan Review Officer & Auditor, developed all operating procedures for this newly created position. Authored a comprehensive loan policies and procedures manual, and developed a system of identifying and monitoring problem credits.

As Bank Examiner, trained assistant examiners in bank accounting, operations, and auditing procedures. Obtained extensive exposure to problem bank situations. Assessed overall bank policies, conducted loan discussions and Board meetings, and drafted examination reports