Operations Leader with Crisis-Response Expertise
Resume:
SARA POLKINGHORN
*****************@*****.***
Versatile professional with over a decade of experience across retail management, logistics, and behavioral health.
Proven leader with a strong background as a Store Manager at Grocery Outlet, effectively overseeing multi-million
dollar operations, large teams, and complex inventory. Expert in high-pressure environments, ranging from
emergency dispatching to clinical patient transport and crisis de-escalation.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
La Jolla Recovery La Jolla, CA Behavioral Health Technician & Transport April 2023 - November
2024
Clinical Support: Monitored resident behavior and documented physical/emotional changes to ensure
accurate reporting to the clinical team. Safe Transportation: Managed logistics and safely transported
clients to medical appointments, detoxification services, and community recovery activities. Crisis
Interve Applied trauma-informed de-escalation techniques to handle behavioral emergencies and
maintain facility safety. Operations: Conducted hourly safety rounds, performed urine drug screenings,
and assisted with new client intake and contraband searches.
Western Towing San Diego, CA Dispatcher June 2021 — April 2023
Fleet Coordination: Dispatched a fleet of towing and recovery vehicles, prioritizing service requests for
stranded motorists and law enforcement. High-Volume Communication: Managed multi-line phone
systems and two-way radios to relay critical information between drivers and customers. Logistics:
Utilized GPS tracking and dispatch software to optimize driver routes and ensure timely arrivals.
Grocery Outlet el Cajon Store Manager 2014 - 2019
Operational Leadership: Oversaw all aspects of daily store operations, including budgeting, and labor
forecasting to drive profitability. team Development: Recruited, hired, and trained a high-performing
team of 20+ associates, focusing on customer service excellence and operational consistency. Inventory
& Merchandising: Managed high-volume inventory accuracy and visual merchandising standards,
ensuring optimal product flow and promotional execution. Compliance & Safety: Maintained strict
adherence to OSHA, food-handling standards, and safety protocols to ensure a safe shopping
environment. Financial Oversight: Analyzed sales reports and market trends to identify opportunities
for growth and controllable expense reduction.
CORE SKILLS
Leadership: Team Building, Performance Management, Strategic Planning, Conflict Resolution.
Operational: P&L Oversight, Inventory Control, Fleet Dispatching, Logistics Optimization.
Clinical/Safety: Crisis De-escalation, Patient Observation, HIPAA Compliance, Safety Rounds.
CERTIFICATIONS & EDUCATION
CPR & First Aid Certified Valid Driver’s License (Clean Driving Record) High School Diploma or GED
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