Business Development Product

Helen Karamitsos

*** ********* *** #*** ************, FL 32202

Phone: 904-***-**** Email: ***********@*****.*** LinkedIn Profile

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Accomplished executive with over 20 years of experience in leadership, business management, and strategic growth across the hospitality, food production, and sales sectors. Skilled in driving organizational change, leading cross- functional teams, and enhancing customer relationships. Expertise spans business development, sales strategy, product innovation, and client management, with a proven ability to optimize operational efficiency, maximize profitability, and foster long-term partnerships. Known for leveraging strategic thinking, effective leadership, and market insights to deliver impactful solutions that drive sustainable growth. CORE COMPETENCIES

With a strong foundation in director-level leadership and management, I bring expertise in business development, sales strategy, and account management, focused on driving business growth and customer loyalty. My background in product innovation and cross-functional collaboration enables teams to achieve high performance while optimizing operational processes. I excel in financial planning, budgeting, and using CRM and PMS systems to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. My experience in marketing, market expansion, and event planning has helped increase brand visibility and market reach. I am committed to developing talent through mentoring and staff training, ensuring teams are aligned with organizational goals. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Management Executive Chef

St. John's Cathedral Jacksonville, FL

June 2024 – Present

Lead kitchen operations while ensuring compliance with health regulations (ServSafe) and creating a safe, efficient environment. Mentor culinary professionals, manage cost control, and develop menus for high-profile events, improving guest satisfaction and food quality. Collaborate with leadership teams to enhance the overall dining experience.

Chief Executive Officer

Yia Yia’s Diablo Sauce, LLC Self-employed

September 2023 – May 2024

Directed all aspects of business operations for a small food brand, focusing on product development and sales growth. Managed the successful launch of a private-label product line, increasing brand visibility through retail partnerships and market expansion. Led cross-functional teams to optimize product performance and customer experience.

CEO & Business Product Development

E.D.A. Yia Yia’s Inc. Self-employed

January 2021 – May 2024

Oversaw business operations, financial planning, and strategic product innovation. Directed market research and product development, creating a new line of artisanal food products aligned with customer feedback and market trends. Managed sales strategies and vendor relationships to drive business growth. Sales Development Manager (SDR)

Dun & Bradstreet Jacksonville, FL

March 2021 – August 2021

Managed a team of SDRs focused on lead generation, prospecting, and pipeline management. Contributed to optimizing team workflows, improving sales performance, and fostering a high-performance culture, resulting in increased productivity and reduced churn.

Account Relationship Manager

E.D.A. Inc. Yia Yia’s United States

February 2021 – March 2022

Built and maintained strong relationships with key clients, driving business expansion. Led account reviews and negotiated contracts, ensuring timely product delivery and customer satisfaction. Sales & Product Development Manager

School Specialty Lombard, IL

October 2018 – February 2021

Directed the development and sales of private-label educational materials. Managed relationships with educational institutions, tailoring solutions to meet client needs and drive repeat business. CEO, Owner, & Operator

Elena’s South Restaurants & Catering Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, FL March 1988 – May 2007

Owned and operated two successful restaurant locations and a catering service. Focused on customer service, community engagement, and business growth. Successfully sold both locations, which remain operational today. Managed all aspects of operations, sales, and marketing to achieve long-term profitability. EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS

Triton College — River Grove, Illinois

Studies in Business Management and Administration

• Harper Community College — Palatine, Illinois

Studies in Business Management and Administration

• ServSafe Management Certificate

• Other Relevant Certifications or Training

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• CRM Platforms: Salesforce, HubSpot

• Property Management Systems (PMS)

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• Project Management Tools: Asana, Trello

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

• Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulations (Licenses in Good Standing)

• Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association

• Women in Hospitality

• American Businesswomen’s Association

• Local Chamber of Commerce – Ft. Myers, FL

References available upon request.

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