THOMAS M. BLANCHE

**** ******** ****** ******, ** 38655

c. 662-***-**** h. 662-***-**** abni94@r.postjobfree.com

OPERATIONS EXECUTIVE

Accomplished and multi-dimensional executive leader with proven talent in identifying and developing

sales opportunities to accelerate expansion, increase revenues, and improve profit. Solid business

insight with the ability to ascertain and analyze needs, forecast goals, streamline operations, and

execute new program concepts. Proficient abilities in balancing cost and quality with project

development and delivery timelines. Committed and customer-oriented with a broad range of strategic

planning and consulting experience. Exceptional communication and presentation skills with

demonstrated ability to articulate innovative solutions for business growth in start-up, turnaround, and

mature enterprises. Recognized for balanced judgment, stability, and capacity to steer consensus

among core business disciplines with diverse agendas and visions.

Adept at fostering long lasting relationships with executives, district managers, and sales team

while independently planning and directing operations.

Ability to adapt to diverse business environments while conceptualizing ideas, seizing

opportunities, and leading new business development initiatives.

Visionary who synthesizes facts, events, and concepts to develop realistic and long-range plans

on a timely and cost-effective basis.

Sales Management Risk Management Financial Analysis Quality Initiatives

Supply Chain Business Relations Operations Management P&L

Strategic Analysis Project Management Problem Resolution

Process Improvement Staff Development Research/Analysis Procurement

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

HIGH POINT COFFEE, INC., Oxford, MS 2002-Present

President

Key leader in market launch of four divisions: retail coffee concept design and development, food

processing and distribution, licensed retail and distributor business opportunities, and acquisition and

development of office coffee route sales. Spearheaded the development of budgeting, financial,

regulatory compliance, staffing, and training functions. Constructed business models, processes and

procedures to support the development of 15 million in sales.

Negotiated and secured sales contracts to distribute coffee for vending, office food service and

the grocery market through national distribution.

Consistently gained recognition during tenure for the best product against an industry leader in

the market.

Consultant to licensed business units.

Championed strategic and market planning, new product development, and joint venture

negotiations.

Led business development efforts in analyzing, proposing, and implementing logistics programs

that focus on value-added service and cost savings.

Extensive success in the design, development, and implementation of policies and procedures

to improve production and satisfaction levels.

THOMAS M. BLANCHE PAGE 2

HMSHost, Memphis/Little Rock International Airport Concession Operations 1999-2003

General Manager/Director

Managed daily operations for 35 retail, full service bar, and quick service restaurant outlets with sales

of $35M. Utilized cross-functional communication with department heads, airport authority, airline

executives and corporate office staff. Provided administrative support, commissary production, and

distribution to entire airport. Oversaw activities and established work standards for 5 area managers,

retail GM, and 800+ employees. Administered all HR, accounting, security, and operations functions

with a $35M budget. Facilitated training to ensure new laws and standards were abided by post 9/11.

Awarded Most Improved Operations by reducing payroll 4% in one year and exceeding

budgeted sales by 16%.

Championed dramatic turnaround to achieve first in the company through hands on skills

assessment and process improvement.

Enhanced profitability post 9/11 by proposing and launching new policies and procedures.

Generated significant profit by shifting from fountain drinks to bottle to improve travel ability.

CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE, INC., Lebanon, TN 1990-1999

District Manager

Led a $50M district across MS, AR, TN, and AL. Accountable for strategic planning, budgeting, and HR

processes/procedures for 1000+ employees/managers. Proven succession-planning skills. Established

and achieved profit goals, capital allocations, and budgeting.

Presented with Manager of the Year Award by delivering innovative solutions for growth.

Improved customer satisfaction by recommending, testing, and introducing quality control

measures to address food complaints.

Increased sales YOY 24% by maintaining cross-functional teams thus reducing direct costs.

EDUCATION

Master of Arts-Executive Leadership, Christian Brothers University

Bachelors of Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude, Belhaven College

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Ethical Leadership Certificate, Christian Brothers University

Web optimization workshop

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

CBU Alumni Association

Board Member of BBB of Jackson, Mississippi

Former Board Member of Junior Achievement

Area Community Development Foundation Member

Active participant in local Chamber of Commerce

Frequent guest speaker at University of Mississippi’s Management Program

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