Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
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Laura Koteski

Laura Koteski

Monterey,NSW

Summary

Entrepreneurial and creative Founder passionate about turning innovative ideas into tangible results. Experienced formulating and executing strategic plans, creating new products and services, and developing business opportunities. Track record of multiple successful business ventures and leading teams of professionals to maximise profits and deliver success.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience

Work History

Founder / Managing Director

THE AVENUE
02.2021 - Current
  • Founded and established a highly successful function and event business from the ground up.

www.theavenuesydney.com.au

@the_avenue_sydney

  • Developed and implemented a strategic business plan, resulting in consistent growth and profitability.
  • Managed all aspects of the business, including operations, sales and marketing, finance, and customer relations.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with key clients, vendors, and industry partners.
  • Oversee the planning and execution of a wide range of events, including PR, corporate functions, and social events.
  • Implemented innovative marketing strategies to increase brand visibility and attract new clients.
  • Successfully negotiated contracts and partnerships with high-profile venues and suppliers.
  • Ensured exceptional customer satisfaction by delivering high-quality services and exceeding client expectations.
  • Managed budgets, financial forecasting, and cost control measures to maximize profitability.
  • Stayed abreast of industry trends and incorporated innovative ideas and concepts into event planning and execution.
  • Received numerous accolades and positive reviews for exceptional service and memorable events. Refer to our company Google Reviews.

Founder / Owner Operator

FITNESS EMPIRE AUSTRALIA
11.2015 - 12.2020
  • Founded and established a niche gym from the ground up, providing a welcoming and motivating environment for fitness enthusiasts.
  • Managed all aspects of the gym operations, including facility management, staff recruitment and training, sales and marketing, and customer relations.
  • Built a strong team of qualified trainers and staff, fostering a positive and supportive work culture.
  • Implemented effective marketing strategies to attract and retain members, resulting in a steady increase in membership numbers.
  • Created and implemented innovative fitness programs and classes to cater to a diverse range of member needs and preferences both face to face and online.
  • Ensured a high level of customer satisfaction by delivering exceptional service and personalised attention to members.
  • Maintained a clean and safe facility, adhering to industry standards and regulations.
  • Managed budgets and financial planning, optimizing revenue streams and controlling costs to maximise profitability.
  • Stayed up-to-date with industry trends and incorporated new equipment, technologies, and fitness methodologies to enhance member experience.
  • Fostered strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and community partners to enhance the gym’s offerings and reputation.
  • Received positive feedback and testimonials from satisfied members, reflecting the gym’s commitment to excellence.

Sole Trader

LAURA FM PT
01.2011 - 01.2015
  • Established and operated a successful personal training business as a sole trader, providing one-on-one fitness coaching and guidance to clients.
  • Developed customised training programs tailored to individual client needs and goals, focusing on areas such as weight loss, body building, and overall fitness improvement.
  • Utilised a variety of training techniques and equipment to create engaging and effective workouts that challenged clients and helped them achieve desired results.
  • Built and maintained a loyal client base through exceptional customer service, fostering strong relationships and trust with clients.
  • Managed all aspects of the business, including client acquisition, scheduling, and financial management.
  • Demonstrated a deep understanding of human anatomy, exercise physiology, and nutrition, providing clients with comprehensive guidance on healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Utilised effective communication and motivational techniques to inspire and empower clients, helping them stay committed to their fitness journey.
  • Monitored client progress and adjusted training programs as necessary to ensure continuous improvement and optimal results.
  • Maintained a professional and ethical approach, adhering to industry standards and guidelines.

Marketing Manager / Assistant General Manager

ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
01.2004 - 01.2011

Marketing Manager

  • Developed and executed strategic marketing plans to drive awareness, engagement, and sales.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including artists, performers, production crews, and external vendors, to ensure cohesive and impactful marketing efforts.
  • Created and managed marketing budgets, allocating resources effectively to maximise return on investment.
  • Developed and implemented innovative marketing campaigns across multiple channels.
  • Monitored campaign performance and analytics, making data-driven decisions to optimise marketing strategies and improve results.
  • Established and maintained relationships with media outlets, industry partners, securing press coverage and promotional opportunities.
  • Demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, effectively conveying marketing strategies and initiatives to internal and external stakeholders.

Assistant General Manager

  • Served as an assistant general manager for an entertainment management company, overseeing all operational and strategic aspects of the business.
  • Developed and executed business strategies to drive growth, profitability, and client satisfaction.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring profitability and cost control alongside company CFO.
  • Managed venue Development Applications, Modifications and licensing requirements.
  • Provided leadership and mentorship to the team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment, and promoting professional development.
  • Managed client relationships, addressing any concerns or issues promptly and ensuring high levels of client satisfaction.
  • Collaborated with legal and financial advisors to navigate contractual and financial matters, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and best practices.
  • Demonstrated strong communication and negotiation skills, effectively representing the company and its clients in various professional settings.

Retail Store Manager / National DFO Manager

DISCOVERY GROUP
01.2004 - 01.2006

Retail Store Manager - Charlie Brown

  • Held a position as a retail store manager, overseeing all aspects of store operations, sales, and customer service.
  • Managed a team of retail associates, providing leadership, training, and performance evaluations to ensure excellent customer service and achieve sales targets.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to drive store sales, increase customer traffic, and optimise profitability.
  • Monitored and analysed sales performance, inventory levels, and market trends to improve store operations and meet financial goals.
  • Created and executed effective merchandising and visual display strategies to enhance the store’s aesthetic appeal and maximise product visibility.
  • Ensured compliance with company policies, procedures, and standards, maintaining a safe and organised store environment.
  • Established and maintained relationships with customers, addressing their needs, resolving issues, and fostering customer loyalty.
  • Oversaw inventory management, including ordering, receiving, and stocking merchandise, minimising stockouts and overstock situations via consolidations.
  • Conducted regular staff meetings and training sessions to keep the team informed, motivated, and equipped with product knowledge and selling techniques.
  • Collaborated with corporate headquarters and other store managers to share best practices, implement new initiatives, and achieve company-wide goals.
  • Managed financial aspects of the store, including budgeting, expense control, and cash management.
  • Implemented loss prevention measures to minimise theft and ensure store security.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, effectively managing both employees and customer relationships.
  • Achieved measurable results, such as increased sales, improved customer satisfaction, and reduced operational costs.

DFO National Manager

  • Developed and executed strategic plans to drive sales, increase market share, and enhance the overall performance of the DFO retail stores.
  • Managed a team of store managers, providing leadership, guidance, and support to ensure consistent implementation of company policies and standards.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including marketing, operations, and merchandising, to develop and execute effective strategies to achieve sales targets and enhance the customer experience.
  • Monitored and analysed sales performance, market trends, and customer feedback, making data-driven decisions to optimize store operations and drive business growth.
  • Conducted regular store visits and audits to ensure compliance with company standards, visual merchandising guidelines, and operational procedures.
  • Implemented training and development programs for store managers and staff, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver exceptional customer service and achieve sales goals.
  • Managed financial aspects of the retail stores, including budgeting, forecasting, and expense control, ensuring profitability and cost efficiency.
  • Implemented effective inventory management practices, minimising stockouts and overstock situations, and optimising inventory turnover.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, effectively managing a large team and fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
  • Conducted performance evaluations, provided feedback, and implemented performance improvement plans as necessary to drive individual and team success.
  • Achieved measurable results, such as increased sales, improved customer satisfaction, and enhanced operational efficiency, contributing to the overall success and growth of the retail business.

Floor Wait Staff / Hostess

ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
01.2001 - 01.2004
  • Greeted customers, escorted them to their tables, and provided menus, taking note of any special requests or dietary restrictions.
  • Took food and beverage orders accurately and efficiently, ensuring that all orders were prepared and served according to customer preferences and venue standards.
  • Collaborated with the kitchen staff and bartenders to ensure timely and accurate delivery of food and beverages to customers.
  • Maintained a clean and organised work area, including tables, chairs, and service stations, ensuring a pleasant and sanitary dining environment.
  • Handled cash and credit card transactions, processed payments accurately, and provided customers with receipts.
  • Upsold additional food and beverage items, desserts, or promotional offers to increase sales and enhance the dining experience for customers.
  • Assisted in setting up and breaking down the dining area, including arranging tables and chairs, setting up table settings, and cleaning up after service.
  • Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic, consistently meeting scheduled shifts and contributing to the overall business success.

Casual Sales Assistant / 2IC / Store Manager

PROUDS JEWELLERS
01.1998 - 01.2004

Education

BSB40807 Certificate IV - Frontline Management

Hostec
Sydney, NSW
09.2011

Business Services / Business Administration

Hostec
Sydney, NSW
06.2011

SIS30310 Certificate III Fitness - Health And Fitness

TAFE
Randwick, NSW
12.2012

SIS40210 Certificate IV Fitness - Health And Fitness

AIPT
Sydney, NSW
01.2014

RSA / RCG / Advanced Licensing

ITFE
Sydney, NSW
05.2020

Skills

  • Strong sense of business & organisational skills
  • Proactive & self motivated
  • Skilled Microsoft Office, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher
  • Excellent communicator
  • Strong work ethic
  • Loyal, reliable & hardworking
  • Very fast learner

References

Available upon request

Timeline

Founder / Managing Director

THE AVENUE
02.2021 - Current

Founder / Owner Operator

FITNESS EMPIRE AUSTRALIA
11.2015 - 12.2020

Sole Trader

LAURA FM PT
01.2011 - 01.2015

Marketing Manager / Assistant General Manager

ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
01.2004 - 01.2011

Retail Store Manager / National DFO Manager

DISCOVERY GROUP
01.2004 - 01.2006

Floor Wait Staff / Hostess

ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES
01.2001 - 01.2004

Casual Sales Assistant / 2IC / Store Manager

PROUDS JEWELLERS
01.1998 - 01.2004

BSB40807 Certificate IV - Frontline Management

Hostec

Business Services / Business Administration

Hostec

SIS30310 Certificate III Fitness - Health And Fitness

TAFE

SIS40210 Certificate IV Fitness - Health And Fitness

AIPT

RSA / RCG / Advanced Licensing

ITFE
Laura Koteski