Customer Service Business Development

Kip Niswonger

SALES PROFESIONAL

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Results-driven and persuasive sales and business development professional with over 40 years of experience in sales management, marketing, and customer service. Proven ability to drive revenue growth, develop innovative strategies, and optimize operational efficiency. Adept at leading teams, implementing structured sales processes, and enhancing customer experience to exceed business objectives. A dynamic leader with a strong foundation in technology and a passion for delivering measurable results.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

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Best of Tampa Bay Tampa, FL

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Partner 2008–2025

Developed BestofTampaBay.com, an online business and charity directory featuring 150,000+ businesses, driving millions in local commerce and philanthropic contributions.

Led all aspects of business operations, including e-commerce development, digital marketing, vendor negotiations, and customer service, resulting in a 25% increase in customer retention.

Established partnerships with business leaders, charities, and organizations, expanding the company’s reach and positioning it as a key player in the Tampa Bay market.

Co-led the television program "Best of Tampa Bay" on WMOR TV, showcasing top businesses and services in Hillsborough County, reaching over 500,000 viewers.

Spearheaded B2B marketing and sales efforts, securing $1.2 million+ in sponsorships and advertising revenue from high-profile businesses.

Developed strategic partnerships with local businesses, media outlets, and sponsors, increasing brand visibility and engagement by 40% year-over-year.

Played a key role in content curation and business selection, ensuring the show maintained its reputation as a trusted resource for Tampa Bay’s top businesses.

Mutual of Omaha Tampa, FL

Customer Service Manager, Southeast Region 1998–2008

Partnered closely with the Regional Sales Manager to develop new business strategies, optimize client service, and expand market share.

Led customer service operations across the Southeast Region, ensuring high client satisfaction and policy retention.

Managed a top-performing region that ranked #1 in the nation for both the number of plans sold and overall activity.

Developed and implemented training programs for customer service representatives, increasing efficiency.

Merchants Insurance Tampa, FL

Loss Control Manager (State of Florida) 1994-1998

Managed loss control operations across Florida, ensuring compliance with risk management policies and underwriting guidelines.

Collaborated with the agency principal and lead underwriter to develop a national loss control program, strengthening underwriting standards and claims mitigation.

Conducted on-site risk assessments for commercial clients, identifying and implementing safety measures that reduced claims by 18%.

Designed and introduced loss prevention training programs, leading to a 12% improvement in workplace safety metrics for insured businesses.

Played a key role in the agency’s expansion efforts, formulating a regional marketing strategy targeting Managing General Agencies (MGAs).

Southeast Management Services Tampa, FL

Executive Sales Representative & Marketing Manager 1991–1994

Led sales and marketing efforts for a $1 million business consulting firm, driving revenue growth through targeted sales strategies and client relationship management.

Developed and executed comprehensive B2B marketing campaigns, resulting in a 35% increase in new client acquisition.

Established strategic partnerships with industry leaders, expanding the firm’s market reach and enhancing service offerings.

Conducted high-level sales presentations, closing 85% of qualified leads and significantly boosting company revenue.

Harris Jewelers & Osterman Jewelers Indianapolis, IN

Store Manager 1978–1991

Managed daily operations of a $1.43 million retail jewelry store, overseeing sales, inventory, merchandising, and customer engagement.

Led a team of 10 employees, implementing structured sales training programs that increased individual productivity by 39%.

Achieved consistent double-digit sales growth year-over-year, exceeding quarterly revenue targets by an average of 15%.

Developed and executed strategic merchandising plans, optimizing product placement and inventory turnover, reducing shrinkage by 22%.

Recruited, hired, and trained sales associates, maintaining a low turnover rate of 10%, well below industry standards.

Recognized for outstanding leadership and sales performance, earning multiple Top Store awards within the division.

EDUCATION

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Purdue University West Lafayette, IN

Bachelor of Science – Aviation Technology 1987-1991

AWARDS AND CERTIFICATES

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Awards/Certificates

Graduate Gemologist (GIA) – Expertise in diamond grading, colored stones, and gem identification.

Presidents Club –Outstanding Personal Sales, Osterman Jewelers

Top Division Jewelry Store Award –#1 store in the region.

Sales Excellence Award – Recognized for outstanding sales performance and customer service.

Leadership & Business Development Award – Honored for strategic initiatives leading to revenue growth.

Mutual of Omaha Regional Excellence Award – Contributed to Southeast Region's #1 national ranking.

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