Michael Ristau
Flossmoor, IL **422
️ ****************@*****.***
Professional Summary
Highly motivated and results-driven leader with over 15 years of progressive experience in retail, grocery, and warehouse operations. Known for managing cross-functional teams, resolving customer issues with professionalism, and driving store-wide performance. Strong background in hiring, coaching, scheduling, and managing day-to-day operations in fast-paced environments. Dedicated to exceptional customer service and building team cultures that thrive under pressure.
Core Skills
● Team Leadership & Staff Development
● Store & Department Operations
● Scheduling & Labor Management
● Inventory & Vendor Coordination
● Conflict Resolution & Customer Retention
● Sales Goal Tracking & Performance Metrics
● Change Management & Adaptability
● Safety & Compliance Enforcement
Work Experience
Store Manager
Waltz Foods – Chicago, IL
May 2016 – Jan 2025
● Directed total store operations, overseeing deli, butcher, bakery, and grocery departments with separate managers and team leads.
● Developed and led a team of 20 to 30 employees across all departments.
● Supervised and coached staff to meet service, sales, and safety performance expectations.
● Managed all scheduling, labor budgets, and department coordination to maintain consistent 5–7 day operations.
● Handled high-level customer service matters, vendor negotiations, and inventory oversight.
● Set weekly sales goals and performance targets, implementing strategies that improved department-level productivity.
● Led the hiring and coaching of all leadership and hourly staff, fostering a collaborative, results-focused culture.
● Maintained compliance with health regulations, cleanliness protocols, and corporate policies.
Assistant Store Manager
Kohl’s – Frankfort, IL
Feb 2007 – Apr 2016
● Supported daily retail operations, delivering an efficient and seamless customer experience.
● Supervised sales associates, improving team output through coaching and hands-on leadership.
● Resolved customer issues promptly and professionally, ensuring high satisfaction levels.
● Assisted with inventory accuracy, visual merchandising, and store readiness for promotions and holidays.
● Promoted teamwork and upheld store standards in a high-volume retail setting. Shipping & Receiving Supervisor
Grainger – Chicago, IL
Feb 2001 – Jan 2007
● Managed inbound and outbound logistics in a high-volume warehouse environment.
● Supervised staff, assigned workloads, and maintained performance through coaching and efficiency tracking.
● Scheduled and coordinated shipments, ensuring on-time delivery and accurate inventory movement.
● Upheld strict safety standards and streamlined operational procedures to minimize delays.
Shift Lead
Wendy’s – Chicago, IL
Jul 1998 – Jan 2001
● Led team operations during assigned shifts, ensuring service quality and staff performance.
● Resolved customer concerns, maintained safety standards, and ensured daily task completion.
● Trained new employees and enforced company policies to deliver consistent, reliable service.
Education
Chicago University
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Management) Mar 2000 – Aug 2004
● Developed strong communication, leadership, and conflict resolution skills through business and team projects.