Manager, Office Operations

LAURA M. PENLEY

**** ***** ********, **** **** • Chicago, IL 60613 • 773-***-**** • ***********@*****.***

SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven management experience with demonstrated ability to facilitate a team vision and achieve organizational objectives, increase productivity and enhance employee morale.

• Skilled in budget forecasting and management of cost-effective and controlled spending.

• Experienced in conceptualizing and coordinating business and social events.

• Exceptional leadership, communication, interpersonal, analytical, and problem resolution skills. Committed work ethic in both independent and collaborative work environments.

• Proficient with PC, Mac, Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Photoshop.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

01/07 – Present Katzenbach Partners, Chicago, IL

MANAGER, OFFICE OPERATIONS

• Responsible for day-to-day management of office facilities and resources fostering an enjoyable and collaborative work environment.

• Developed a $1M annual operating budget for the office and reviewed quarterly spend against budget with the CFO.

• Reduced firm supply spend by roughly $100k annually by standardizing the supply offerings across geographies, researching vendors and negotiating prices.

• Oversaw remodeling and construction projects that entailed working with the firm architect on the design and planning, negotiating contracts with the general contractor and coordination with vendors, employees and building management.

• Ensured compliance with building codes, ADA and OSHA requirements.

• Conceptualized and planned monthly social events for office members and partnered with colleagues in all offices to organize firm-wide events four times a year.

• Partnered with NY based IT team on all technical issues impacting the Chicago office, server and phone system upgrades and installation of new equipment.

• Acted as the primary contact for all Katzenbach recruiting classes, providing them with information and guidance to ensure a smooth transition into the firm.

• Functioned as the human resources and benefits liaison for the Houston and Chicago offices; worked with firm’s 401k provider to enroll all new hires into the retirement and profit sharing plans.

08/04 – 11/06 Allston Trading LLC, Chicago, IL

MANAGER, CATERING & EVENTS

• Managed the planning and execution of all corporate events from board meetings to large-scale themed parties as well as social activities for employees and their families with attendance ranging from 10-400 persons.

• Orchestrated the daily delivery of breakfast and lunch for 150+ employees with attention to nutrition, taste, variety and budget.

• Worked directly with external vendors to ensure the success of all catering orders and events.

• Developed and presented event proposals with cost analysis to the President and the CEO.

• Designed and distributed brochures, fliers, announcements, and invitations, in addition to numerous other internal communications.

• Created camera ready artwork of the company logo in various file formats and sizes; responsible for the ordering of all logo bearing items such as stationary, promotional items and employee gifts.

05/02 - 08/04 Tiffany & Co., Chicago, IL & New York, NY

ASSOCIATE MANAGER

• Assisted in the management of three sales departments, with an annual sales volume of $33M; provided management support in the areas of Operations, Merchandising and Sales.

• Assisted in overseeing all in-store HR procedures including hiring and termination of staff, payroll submission, time off balances, and employee recognition/awards.

• Supervised and developed employees; ensured appropriate floor presence and provided ongoing feedback and coaching.

• Planned and executed new product launches and sales promotions, aiding the staff in the development of product knowledge and new sales techniques.

• Was recruited and selected as 1 of 5 individuals from across the United States to take part in a new management training program within Tiffany & Co.

EDUCATION

Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 2002

Bachelor of Arts; Communications with a concentration in Public Relations

Minors; Biological Sciences, Chemistry and Organizational Leadership and Supervision

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