Craig Billner
Pekin, IL ****4
*******@*******.***
Dear Sirs:
In pursuit of a career opportunity, I am searching for a progressive
organization to which I can contribute my 20 years of experience in sales,
promotions, marketing, management, retail and operations, plus a strong
background in customer service, with over 20 years in the marketing and
sales to both individuals and organizations, plus 12 years in banking.
Since my resume does not completely present all of my experience, I would
like to discuss the additional areas with you personally and learn more
about what your needs are for this position.
Attached is a resume that supports my objectives with some of my
qualifications and achievements. You will note that I have been especially
effective in the development of new business.
I would like to discuss with you how I am prepared to contribute to your
organization. Please let me know when is best for you to discuss this
opportunity or arrange a brief meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Craig Billner
*******@*******.***
CRAIG BILLNER
810 Chestnut St., Pekin, IL 61554 * 309-***-**** * *******@*******.***
OBJECTIVE
Experienced sales and service leader working with clients directly.
Seasoned manager with experience in heading up departmental functions such
as marketing and promotion including tracking of projects and control
procedures. Effective manager capable of leading multiple location with up
to thirty associates each while building retail growth plus accomplished
interviewer and trainer. Highly focused on project-oriented assignments
needing little or no supervision. Especially comfortable in emerging small
or medium sized environment.
QUALIFICATIONS
( Project Development ( Operations
( Research & Evaluation ( Negotiation
( Telephone & Promotion ( Detail Oriented &
Organizational
( Hiring & Staffing ( Training & Associate
Development
SELECTED ACHIEVEMENTS
Oversaw 34 stores and staff throughout central northern section of Illinois
with sales increase over 30% per month.
Consistently responsible for successfully reviving existing retail outlets
with 20% or more increases in growth of sales.
Developed a bid system for a law enforcement equipment company that set a
record of over $1 million in sales while achieving a 23% success rate.
Propelled a tourist and recreational corporation in breaking the $ 1
million mark with a seasonal 18% growth in group attendance.
Rescued a failing retail uniform and equipment company by consolidating
operations, cutting expenses and increasing revenues through state
contracts resulting in a 400% sales increase over a 24-month period.
Successfully opened a retail drug store by launching a creative marketing
campaign and other promotional venues in which 40% of the area population
was reached, resulting in profitability obtained within a six-month period
rather than the projected 12 months.
Created an outstanding marketing concept to increase attendance during a
business's "off season" resulting in a 130% growth in reservations.
Awarded "Rookie of the Year" in insurance/financial service company after
first year in industry setting office record for highest face amount sales.
BILLNER WORK EXPERIENCE Page 2
Nicol Financial Services, Granite City, IL REGISTERED REPRESENTATIVE
2009 to present
Coach clients in understanding and making decisions on personal
financial services. Recruit, train and supervise other associates.
Primerica Financial Service, Bloomington, IL INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
2009
Assist clients in understanding and making decisions on personal
financial services. Recruit and train other associates.
Family Dollar Stores, Pekin, IL 2001-
2003/2005-2009
STORE MANAGER/ASSISTANT DISTRICT MANAGER/CERTIFIED TRAINING MANAGER
All phases of store operations and district management with 34
stores. Hire and train new associates including store managers.
Consolidated Stores/Big Lots, Peoria, IL ASSISTANT MANAGER
2003-2005
Assist Store Manager in all phases of store operations, hiring,
training, and management.
Boston Leather, Sterling, IL BID SPECIALIST 2000
Dealer support through contract bid location and customer service.
Southern Indiana Recreation, Marengo, IN MARKETING MANAGER 1995-
1996/1998-2000
Duties include group sales, marketing and reservations.
Revco Drug Store, Inc., Corydon, IN STORE MANAGER 1996-
1997
All phases of operations and management.
Kiesler Police Supply, Jeffersonville, IN LAW ENFORCEMENT SALES 1992-
1994
In charge of government contract sales and assisted in catalog, retail
and wholesale sales.
The Cop Shop, Inc., Belleville, IL BID SPECIALIST/GENERAL MANAGER
1988-1992
Managed up to seven stores and supervised contract bid sales.
Kevin G. Nicol & Associates, Granite City, IL REGIONAL MANAGER 1984-
1992
Managed and trained representatives who advised clients on financial
services and investments.
EDUCATION
Indiana University Southeast, New Albany, IN
Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, IL
Additional Education
Windows Seminar, 1999
Internet Marketing Course, 1999
Selection for Success Training, 2002
Retail Trainer Certification 2003
Life & Health Insurance Licensed (Illinois) 2009
Series 6 & Series 63 Securities Licensed (Illinois) 2009
Additional Interests
Qualified Director with the American Contract Bridge League
Life Master ranking with the American Contract Bridge League