Operations Leader with 15+ Years Driving Growth

Karmen L. Kilgore

**** ******* *** – Norfolk, Virginia 23502

757-***-**** *************@*****.***

Experienced operations manager with over 15 years of proven expertise in driving company growth, optimizing sales performance, and building high-performing teams. Demonstrates strong skills in associate development, delivering exceptional customer service, and maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards. Eager to leverage my operational knowledge, attention to detail, and results-driven approach to contribute to the continued success and growth of your organization.

EXPERIENCE:

The Royal Chocolate- Virginia Beach, Virginia

Head Creator/ Shift Leader Manager

07/2024-04/2025

• As Head Creator Chocolatier & Manager at The Royal Chocolate, I spearheaded the design and execution of innovative chocolate creations, overseeing the full production process from concept to final display.

• My responsibilities included managing day-to-day operations of the chocolate kitchen, training and mentoring staff in artisanal techniques, and maintaining rigorous quality control to ensure every confection met our high standards.

• I collaborated with vendors to source premium ingredients, introduced new product lines to invigorate sales, and orchestrated seasonal promotions that delighted customers and attracted new clientele.

• My leadership fostered a creative, team-oriented environment where associates were encouraged to experiment, learn, and grow, resulting in both elevated product offerings and consistently outstanding customer experiences.

Walmart Neighborhood Market- Norfolk, Virginia

Digital Ecommerce Associate

12/2023- 05/2024

• My recent role as a Digital Ecommerce Associate at Walmart Neighborhood Market provided me with immersive experience in the fast-paced environment of a digital shop.

• I was responsible for managing daily telecommunication and ensuring seamless online order processing, from packaging and shipping customer purchases to coordinating timely pickups. The position demanded a keen attention to detail and a customer-focused approach, especially when responding to digital inquiries through the call center.

• By shopping for and dispensing online orders as customers arrived, I gained firsthand understanding of the logistics and service expectations required to maintain a successful digital storefront.

• This experience sharpened my ability to adapt to evolving technology, prioritize efficiency, and deliver a convenient, positive experience for every customer engaging with the digital marketplace. Focused Employer Inc- Palm Bay, Florida

Lead Shift Manager

7/2022 – 07/2023

• Customer Service with expertise product knowledge assistance.

• Consulting Patient for medical needs and assisting with adding on product to help increase company sales.

• Multitasking management for front & back of house of the company’s operation needs.

• Providing associates with accountability, development palms with follow up and in the moment coaching for associate growth with the company.

• Create product knowledge binder books in each consult rooms to benefits each patient and associate for a quick knowledge reference to help with add on sales.

• Challenge my team on sales goals, donations and growth with the company daily along with celebrations via in a daily. huddle, zone charts, fun swag giveaways, or food treats.

• Helped created our associate kudos board with management for team recognition to celebrate.

• Inventory Control with operations with the truck deliveries of our product for the company. Including following company compliance and regulations that follow along with the state's requirements.

• Cash management, Sales vs Labor requirements, KPI reporting

• Drives profitable sales to exceed store financial plans through leading the team for success BEALLS INC. - Vero beach, Florida

Guest Experience Area Manager

01/2022-08/2022

• Ensuring customer service, supervising employees, enforcing company policies, operations and regulations of the business.

• Administrative tasks, controlling returns polices, recall merchandise and inventory managing to control shrink for the company.

• Customer Service, cash management, time management, scheduling, and policy driven.

• Vendor receiving, donations to the community, and volunteer program.

• Provide leadership and expertise of company standards. PAWPRINTS of VERO BEACH- Vero Beach, Florida

General Property Manager

01/2021-01/2023

• In addition to retail management, I have substantial experience overseeing a boarding facility as a General Property Manager.

• My role encompassed supporting multiple departments—boarding, grooming, training, and daycare— spread across a 6-acre property.

• I ensured every facility operated smoothly, maintained rigorous safety and health standards, and adhered to all relevant regulations, particularly in areas using specialized chemicals and cleaning protocols.

• My responsibilities included staff development, scheduling, hiring, and organizing events to enhance both guest and pet experiences.

• Under my guidance, the team delivered top-tier service, fostering a positive environment for animals and their owners alike.

WALMART SUPERCENTER- Pt Saint Lucie/ Vero Beach Florida Academy Facilitator and Customer Service Manager/ IN HOME Delivery 02\2016- 01\2020

• Facilitated policies and prices knowledge to the newly promoted associates for the company. I would train and developed them for their new roles in their own stores.

• Facilitated course I developed associates: Claims and Receiving, Front end retail, customer service managers, asset inventory protection associates, HR people lead.

• Leading with an 100% associate passing rates on the course I facilitated.

• 1st Walmart E commerce In Home delivery driver in Florida

• Cash Mangement, Scheduling, Social Media Networking.

• Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to facilitate retail operations and training with a focus on both customer satisfaction and associate development.

• As a Retail Facilitator, I excel at bridging the gap between company standards and practical implementation on the sales floor.

• My approach involves hands-on training, clear communication of policies and expectations, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

• I am adept at analyzing performance metrics, mentoring new hires, and ensuring that all associates feel confident in their roles—resulting in high passing rates for training courses and measurable improvements in store operations.

• Leveraging my experience with inventory management, compliance, and customer engagement, I bring a holistic perspective to retail facilitation that drives team success and enhances the overall customer experience.

LEVI STRAUSS & COMPANY- Vero Beach, Florida

Store Manager

12/2015-01/2016

• Throughout my tenure as a retail store manager, I have consistently focused on building collaborative teams and driving operational excellence.

• My experience spans diverse environments, where I have honed my ability to motivate staff, manage inventory, and deliver impressive sales results.

• By establishing clear goals and fostering a supportive atmosphere, I empower associates to exceed expectations and contribute to the store’s overall growth.

• My approach combines strategic planning with hands-on leadership, ensuring efficient daily operations and exceptional customer experiences.

• Throughout my career, associate development has been a cornerstone of my leadership philosophy.

• In every management role, I have prioritized creating environments where team members feel empowered to learn, grow, and take initiative.

• My experience includes designing and facilitating training programs tailored to a variety of roles—from new hires to seasoned associates—always with a focus on practical skills, clear communication, and goal setting.

• This commitment to associate development not only drives operational success but also fosters a culture of engagement and collaboration that benefits the entire organization. COLLEGE EDUCATION:

• Indian River State College, Ft. Pierce, Florida

(2014-2017):

Earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Visual Communication & Graphic Design, with a minor in Marketing & Branding. Graduated with a 3.4 GPA, demonstrating both creative proficiency and a solid grasp of brand strategy.

• University of Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona

(2012-2014):

Completed an Associate of Arts in Business Foundation, graduating with a 3.6 GPA. This program provided a strong grounding in key business principles and professional practices. Certified License:

2025-2026 CPR and First Aid for Adult/Infant

2025-2026 ServeSafe Food Handling

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