JENNIFER VELLA
SYDNEY,NSW
Summary
An experienced retail manager within the natural health industry, with a proven track record of exceeding sales targets and building strong client relationships. Having recently completed a Bachelor of Health Science in Western Herbal Medicine, I bring both commercial acumen and technical knowledge to my work. I am particularly drawn to Integria’s commitment to supporting practitioners, and I am motivated to combine my passion for natural health with a strategic sales approach to help clients grow their businesses and strengthen brand success across NSW.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Store Manager
The Happy Herb shop
08.2021 - Current
- Managed daily operations of retail herb shop, optimizing workflow for improved customer service.
- Recruited, trained, and scheduled new employees, enhancing team proficiency in POS, e-commerce, and customer service.
- Monitored sales trends to drive restocking decisions and optimize merchandising strategies.
- Developed inventory management systems for herbal products, streamlining restocking processes and supporting sales strategies.
- Acquired extensive product knowledge regarding herbs and their therapeutic actions.
Food Vendor
The Chai Tent
02.2021 - Current
- Operated weekly market stall, attracting diverse clientele and generating consistent sales.
- Set up and dismantled food vending station at events, ensuring seamless service and customer satisfaction.
- Adhered to health and safety regulations while handling food products.
- Maintained accurate financial records and managed inventory levels to support efficient operations.
- Manufacturing the spice blend to sell as beverage and retail tea packets.
Art Installer
Biennale of Sydney
02.2022 - 02.2023
- Led art installation projects with noted artist Diana Scherer, ensuring high-quality execution and adherence to artistic vision.
- Assisted in installation of multiple artworks at the Cutaway for the 2022 Biennale, contributing to a cohesive exhibition experience.
- Artist liaison for Casiquiare, between Biennale of Sydney and MUMA.
- Facilitated a safe working environment for volunteers, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Retail Store Manager
Honest to Goodness / Wholefood Distribution
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Directed all operational aspects of organic bulk food store, fostering a customer-focused environment.
- Trained and supervised staff, improving customer service techniques and sales skills to enhance overall customer experience.
- Oversaw daily store operations, ensuring compliance with company policies to maintain operational integrity.
- Stock control, ordering, merchandising, customer service and WHS systems
Dispensing Assistant
Urban Fringe Dispensary UK
01.2018 - 01.2019
- Assisted customers with herbal formula refills and health care products.
- Manufactured and dispensed herbal tinctures, including prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- Maintained stock control and received orders to ensure dispensary efficiency.
- Coordinated consultation bookings to optimise client service.
- Managed opening and closing procedures for storefront operations.
Owner / Director
Happy Herb Shop
01.2006 - 01.2016
- Operated two successful herbal retail stores in Sydney for 10 years.
- Developed strong vendor relationships to negotiate prices and ensure quality inventory supply.
- Oversaw financial transactions while maintaining accurate bookkeeping records.
- Trained and recruited staff while effectively managing schedules and rosters.
- Curated diverse selections of herbal teas and natural health products.
- Designed engaging store displays that attracted customers and enhanced their shopping experiences, driving foot traffic and sales.
- Fostered a welcoming environment through exceptional customer interactions and support.
Event Manager
Rejenr8 Productions
Sydney, Australia
01.2006 - 01.2016
- Co-founded and directed event production company specializing in audio-visual experiences within geodesic domes.
- Managed logistics for outdoor festivals, ensuring seamless execution of events.
- Developed event themes and coordinated design elements to achieve cohesive branding.
- Liaised with artists to facilitate creative collaboration and engagement.
- Oversaw health and safety documentation for all events to ensure compliance.
- Wrote proposals to secure events and funding.
- Managed rostering for crew and catering services.
- Programmed creative content to enhance audience experience at events.
- Implemented effective business administration practices to optimize operations.
Education
Bachelor of Health Science - Western Herbal Medicine
Torrens University
12-2025
Certificate in Swedish Massage -
Stafford College
01-2004
Certificate in Access to science and Computing -
Stafford College
01-2004
HSC -
Catherine McAuley High School
01-1997
Skills
- Clinical herbalism and holistic health
- Retail management
- B2B and B2C sales
- Team leadership
- Staff management
- Event coordination
Certification
- Drivers license
- Food Safety Supervisor - 2023
Timeline
Art Installer
Biennale of Sydney
02.2022 - 02.2023
Store Manager
The Happy Herb shop
08.2021 - Current
Food Vendor
The Chai Tent
02.2021 - Current
Retail Store Manager
Honest to Goodness / Wholefood Distribution
01.2019 - 01.2021
Dispensing Assistant
Urban Fringe Dispensary UK
01.2018 - 01.2019
Owner / Director
Happy Herb Shop
01.2006 - 01.2016
Event Manager
Rejenr8 Productions
01.2006 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Health Science - Western Herbal Medicine
Torrens University
Certificate in Swedish Massage -
Stafford College
Certificate in Access to science and Computing -
Stafford College
HSC -
Catherine McAuley High School