Cara Duncan
Coolangatta
Summary
At the age of 12, I embarked on my first job at a local bistro, marking the beginning of my journey in the workforce. It became clear early on that I had a strong desire to earn my own income. Progressing through the hospitality sector, I continued working in this field until the completion of my education. Following that, I embarked on an Australian adventure, steadily advancing to a management role at the Sheraton Mirage by the age of 18.
Over the course of 11 years, I held various management positions within the hospitality industry, spanning from 5-star hotels to cafes and restaurants. With a robust management background, the transition into managerial roles in the real estate industry felt natural. My solid work ethic, coupled with experience in dealing with a diverse range of people Australia-wide, positioned me well for success.
In 2014, I co-founded our agency, and over the past 9+ years, I have diligently built a dynamic team of exceptional staff, successfully managing a real estate office focused solely on sales. Thriving in this environment, my extensive organisational skills and ability to multitask contribute to my effectiveness in the position.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Sophie Carter Exclusive Properties
11.2014 - Current
- Total management of all finances including Trust accounts for both QLD & NSW.
- Assisting all Agents in property sales from listing, through to settlement. This includes but not limited to Open homes, buyer call backs, negotiations between vendors and buyers.
- Increased overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
- Developed and executed strategic plans for business growth and expansion, resulting in increased market share.
- Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
- Established comprehensive employee training programs to develop skills, improve productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
- Developed and implemented strategies to increase sales and profitability.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
- Maximised operational excellence mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
- Trained new employees on proper protocols and client service standards.
- Interacted well with clients to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
- Handled problematic clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent client service.
- Mitigated business risks by working closely with staff members and assessing performance.
Business Development Manager
Ray White GC Southern Network
03.2014 - 11.2014
- Lead the leasing team
- Conducted open for inspections on rentals, qualified potential tenants.
- Met and exceeded monthly targets within 2 months of employment.
- Increased client base by identifying new business opportunities and cultivating strong relationships with key decisionmakers.
- Developed and implemented strategic plans for business growth, resulting in increased market share and profitability.
- Conducted comprehensive market research and analysis to identify emerging trends and potential areas of expansion.
Bar & Events Manager
Harvest Newrybar
12.2012 - 12.2013
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and promptly addressing concerns.
- Boosted sales through upselling techniques and knowledgeable recommendations of drink specials and promotions.
- Maintained a clean and organised bar area, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for patrons.
- Contributed to efficient operations by consistently restocking bar supplies and ingredients as needed.
- Designing seasonal drink menus and working with wine suppliers.
- Collaborated with team members to provide seamless service during high-volume periods.
- Implemented proper cash handling procedures to minimize discrepancies in the register at the end of shifts.
- Assisted in training new hires on bar policies, drink recipes, and company standards for excellent service.
- Adhered to strict safety guidelines regarding proper alcohol serving practices and identification checks.
- Reduced wait times for customers by preparing drinks quickly while maintaining quality standards.
- Managed inventory effectively, placing orders when necessary to prevent shortages or waste due to expiration dates.
- Participated in weekly staff meetings to discuss ways to improve overall guest experience at the establishment.
- Resolved any conflicts between customers or staff members professionally, ensuring a positive environment for all parties involved.
- Supported fellow bartenders during high-stress situations by stepping in wherever help was needed most urgently, whether it was taking orders or cleaning up spills.
- Displayed excellent multitasking abilities during busy nights juggling customer orders, cash handling, and drink preparation.
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
- Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
- Trained new bartenders on drink preparation, product promotion, garnish preparation, and sanitation protocol.
Education
High School Diploma -
University Senior College
Adelaide, SA11.2002
Skills
- Cross-Functional Team Management
- Market Growth
- Employee Scheduling
- Profit and Loss
- Project Planning
- Sales Expertise
- Risk Management
- Sales Team Development
- Profit and Loss Accountability
- Vendor Negotiations
- Staff Training
- Staff Development
- Client Account Management
- Team Leadership
- Staff Management
- New Business Development
- Communication Skills
- Salary Structure
- Budgeting and Cost Control
- Staff Motivation
- Staff Retention Programs
- Team Training
- Succession Planning
- Time Management
- Supervision and Training
- Client Relations
- Negotiation
- Recruitment
Timeline
General Manager
Sophie Carter Exclusive Properties
11.2014 - Current
Business Development Manager
Ray White GC Southern Network
03.2014 - 11.2014
Bar & Events Manager
Harvest Newrybar
12.2012 - 12.2013
High School Diploma -
University Senior College
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