Gary Stone
Experienced Area Manager and Safety Coordinator with diverse skillset
Ramsey, MN 55303
*************@*****.***
Professional Summary
Results-driven Area Manager with 17 years of experience in managing daily operations, staff management, and customer service. Proven track record of driving business growth and increasing profitability through strategic planning and cost savings initiatives. Skilled in contract negotiation, labor cost analysis, and pricing. Proficient in industry-specific software and tools. Adept at developing and implementing comprehensive safety programs, conducting regular safety inspections, and providing safety training sessions. Possesses a Bachelor's degree in Business Management and an Associate's degree in Business Administration.
Willing to relocate: Anywhere
Authorized to work in the US for any employer
Work Experience
General Manager & Lead Estimator
Neil's Auto Body & Collision-Coon Rapids, MN
December 2023 to Present
• Oversaw all aspects of daily operations, including staff management, customer service, and financial performance
• Developed and implemented strategic plans to drive business growth and increase profitability
• Negotiated contracts with suppliers/vendors resulting in cost savings
• Streamlined workflow processes resulting in improved productivity
• Conducted thorough inspections of damaged vehicles to assess the extent of repairs needed
• Utilized industry-specific software and tools to generate accurate estimates for collision repair costs
• Collaborated with insurance adjusters and appraisers to negotiate fair and reasonable repair estimates
• Communicated effectively with customers, explaining the estimate process and addressing any questions or concerns
• Reviewed repair orders and ensured all necessary parts, materials, and labor were included in the estimate
• Maintained a high level of accuracy in estimating repair costs by staying up-to-date on industry pricing trends
• Managed multiple estimates simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines
• Identified additional damage during the repair process that was not initially visible, adjusting estimates accordingly
• Worked closely with technicians to ensure they had all necessary information for efficient repairs
• Collaborated with vendors and suppliers to obtain competitive pricing for parts and materials needed for repairs
• Provided exceptional customer service by keeping customers informed about the progress of their vehicle's repairs
• Resolved any discrepancies or issues related to estimated costs through effective communication and negotiation skills
• Performed detailed final inspections on repaired vehicles to verify quality workmanship before returning them to customers
• Maintained accurate records of all estimates, invoices, payments, and customer interactions
• Tracked key performance indicators (KPIs) related to estimation accuracy, turnaround time, customer satisfaction levels
• Investigated and resolved any discrepancies or disputes related to insurance claims or payment issues Safety Coordinator and Production Supervisor
Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope-Albertville, MN
April 2018 to December 2023
• Developed and implemented comprehensive safety programs to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations
• Conducted regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and recommend corrective actions
• Provided safety training sessions for employees, emphasizing best practices and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Investigated accidents, incidents, and near misses to determine root causes and implement preventive measures
• Maintained accurate records of safety-related incidents, including injuries, illnesses, property damage, and near misses
• Monitored workplace conditions to identify ergonomic issues and make recommendations for improvements
• Implemented a behavior-based safety program that encouraged employees to actively participate in identifying unsafe behaviors or conditions
• Performed job hazard analyses (JHAs) for various tasks across different departments within the organization
• Developed safety policies, procedures, guidelines, and manuals based on industry standards and best practices
• Conducted regular meetings with management to discuss safety performance metrics, trends, goals, and initiatives
• Coordinated the procurement of necessary safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, eyewash stations etc.
• Developed and delivered safety presentations at company-wide meetings and training sessions
• Instituted regular toolbox talks on various topics related to workplace hazards, fostering awareness among employees
• Managed a team of 30+ production workers, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations to optimize productivity
• Implemented lean manufacturing principles to streamline processes and reduce waste, resulting in an increase in overall efficiency
• Analyzed production data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement in order to optimize efficiency and reduce costs
• Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements such as ISO standards, OSHA guidelines, and environmental regulations
Area Manager
Burger King-Minneapolis, MN
January 2014 to April 2018
• Oversaw the operations of multiple retail stores within a designated area, ensuring adherence to company policies and procedures
• Managed a team of 6 store managers, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations
• Implemented effective visual merchandising strategies to optimize product placement and drive sales
• Analyzed sales data and market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement in each store
• Conducted regular store visits to assess compliance with operational standards, customer service quality, and inventory management practices
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams such as marketing, HR, and finance to align strategies and initiatives across the region
• Identified staffing needs based on business demands and participated in recruitment processes for key positions
• Provided ongoing coaching and development opportunities for store managers to enhance their leadership skills
• Monitored inventory levels at each store location to ensure optimal stock availability while minimizing excess or obsolete items
• Led efforts in loss prevention by implementing security measures such as CCTV systems, employee awareness programs, and regular audits
• Developed relationships with key vendors/suppliers to negotiate favorable terms/pricing agreements for merchandise procurement
• Initiated and managed promotional campaigns to drive foot traffic and increase sales during slow periods
• Conducted regular competitor analysis to identify market trends, pricing strategies, and product assortment opportunities
• Instituted performance-based incentive programs for store managers and sales associates, boosting motivation and productivity levels
• Managed annual budget planning process for each store location, ensuring financial targets were met or exceeded
Area Manager
Chipotle Mexican Grill-Minneapolis, MN
2006 to 2013
• Oversaw the operations of multiple restaurants within a designated area, ensuring adherence to company policies and procedures
• Managed a team of 8 store managers and 200+ employees, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations
• Instituted performance-based incentive programs for store managers and team members, boosting motivation and productivity levels
• Managed annual budget planning process for each store location, ensuring financial targets were met or exceeded
• Served as a liaison between corporate headquarters and individual stores providing feedback on product assortment preferences based on local market demands
• Collaborated with store managers to develop staffing schedules that aligned with peak business hours while controlling labor costs
• Conducted regular competitor analysis to identify market trends, pricing strategies, and product assortment opportunities
• Monitored inventory levels at each store location to ensure optimal stock availability while minimizing excess or obsolete items
• Provided ongoing coaching and development opportunities for store managers to enhance their leadership skills
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams such as marketing, HR, and finance to align strategies and initiatives across the region
• Conducted regular store visits to assess compliance with operational standards, customer service quality, and inventory management practices
• Analyzed sales data and market trends to identify opportunities for growth and improvement in each store
Skills
• Strategic Planning
• Profit & Loss
• Contract Negotiation
• Labor Cost Analysis
• Pricing
Certifications and Licenses
Driver's License
OSHA 10
December 2024 to December 2027
10 Hour OSHA General Industry Safety and Health