Wellford, SC *****
******.******@*****.***
RICKIE D. AUSTIN, JR.
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Compassionate, people-first professional with over 10 years of experience in healthcare advocacy, remote client support, technical assistance, and faith-driven leadership. Known for guiding patients, clients, and families with empathy, clarity, and resilience. Thrives in remote-first environments and leverages tech tools to deliver operational excellence.
REMOTE WORK ENVIRONMENT
Fully equipped home office with high-speed internet, headset, webcam, and dual-monitor setup. Comfortable with self-management, calendar coordination, and asynchronous communication tools.
SKILLS
CRM & Remote Platforms: Salesforce, Drift, ClickUp, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, Google Meet, CX ONE, Genesys Pure Cloud
Tech Tools: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Telehealth Platforms
Client Support: Virtual Engagement, Live Chat, Inbound/Outbound Calls, Case Management
Administrative Support: Data Entry, Documentation, Scheduling, Issue Resolution
Soft Skills: Public Speaking, Team Leadership, Empathetic Communication, Retention Strategy
EXPERIENCE
Catch The Fire Chuch, Greenville, SC — Youth Pastor
August 2024 - APRIL 2025
●Provided spiritual support for youth, fostering engagement across virtual and in-person platforms
●Created operational guides for volunteer and service workflows
●Led events, organized outreach, and handled pastoral care communication
Resolved concerns with empathy and discretion, upholding spiritual trust and guidance
First Love Hospitality LLC/Cheesecakery, Rochester, NY & Greenville, SC — Chef & Owner
September 2016 - September 2024
●Managed end-to-end customer experience including virtual and in-person cooking classes and planning
●Built long-term client relationships through exceptional communication and service
●Handled business logistics, feedback, and conflict resolution independently
Fresenius Medical Care/NxStage Medical Inc. Remote — Home Hemodialysis Patient Consultant(Contractor)
April 2022 - August 2024
●Guided patients and families through home dialysis with empathy and technical knowledge
●Utilized Salesforce CRM for documentation, follow-ups, and retention analysis
●Provided support via phone, live chat, and email—resolving patient concerns with care
●Collaborated cross-functionally to ensure appointment scheduling and feedback resolution
Fresenius Medical Care/NxStage Medical Inc. Remote, Western, NY & Upstate, SC — Home Hemodialysis Patient Advocate(Contractor)
May 2018 - April 2022
●Built rapport through virtual calls and in-person events, offering peer support and guidance
●Partnered with care teams to assist with therapy transitions and ongoing communication
●Elevated patient satisfaction by proactively resolving concerns and offering resources
Lincoln Heritage Life Insurance Remote — Final Expense Life Insurance Agent(Self Contractor)
April 2021 - July 2022
●Provided remote insurance consultations across SC, DC, MD, VA, NC, and GA as a licensed Life Producer
●Conducted needs assessments and guided clients through tailored final expense coverage options
●Managed a full remote sales pipeline including inbound/outbound calls and application submissions
●Utilized CRM systems for record-keeping and consistent follow-up
Built trust through empathetic virtual engagement and solutions-oriented service
EDUCATION
Monroe Community College(State University of New York), Rochester, New York — Associate of Applied Science in Hospitality Management
GPA 3.40
September 2013 - May 2016
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Guest Service Professional – American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, May 2016
Certified First Responder Chaplain – Flower City Chaplain Corp, Nov 2019
Certified Mental Health Coach – American Association of Christian Counselors, Dec 2021
ServSafe Food Protection Manager (Valid Through 2029)
Licensed Life Producer in SC, NC, VA, GA, MD and Washington, District of Columbia 2021