Russell Zylstra
Gympie ,QLD
Summary
Experienced and reliable professional with a background in security, business ownership, and customer-facing roles.
Proven ability to assess risk, manage challenging situations, and maintain a calm and controlled presence under pressure.
Strong interpersonal skills developed through decades of working closely with the public in high-interaction environments.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner / Operator
Loco Barber Co
Gympie , QLD
2019 - Current
- Over seeing daily operations of busy barbershop, prioritising customer experience and safety
- Cultivating strong relationships with diverse clients, demonstrating professionalism and discretion
- Maintaining awareness of surroundings and ensured a safe environment for staff and customers
- Demonstrating reliability, responsibility, and strong decision-making in a sole operator setting
Barber
Sharon’s Barber Shop
Gympie , QLD
2012 - 2019
- Delivered high levels of customer service in a fast-paced environment
- Managed client interactions requiring strong communication and trust
- Maintained a calm and professional approach when handling challenging personalities
- Worked independently and as part of a team to maintain smooth daily operations
Contractor
Rogue Tattoo
Gympie , QLD
2012 - 2019
- Maintained professional standards and ensured a safe working environment
- Managed appointment scheduling and customer inquiries efficiently.
- Coordinated with artists to achieve design accuracy and boost client satisfaction.
- Ensured cleanliness and sanitation of workstations and tools to uphold safety standards.
Owner / Operator
Rogue Galley Tattoo
Gympie , QLD
2008 - 2012
- Owned and operated businesses with full responsibility for client management, safety, and daily operations
- Developed strong interpersonal skills through constant one-on-one client interaction
- Managed scheduling, conflict resolution, and customer satisfaction
- Maintained professional standards and ensured a safe working environment
Owner / Operator
Rudy’s Tattoo Shop
2004 - 2008
Contract Tattoo Artist
Vision Skin Tattoos
1999 - 2004
- Worked closely with clients requiring trust, communication, and professionalism
- Maintained strict hygiene and safety standards
- Managed client expectations and resolved concerns effectively
Security Officer
Australia Protection Services
1996 - 1999
- Monitored premises to ensure safety and security of people and property
- Assessed risks and responded quickly to incidents
- Managed conflict situations and de-escalated issues professionally
- Maintained strong situational awareness in high-risk environments
- Enforced safety procedures and protocols
- Communicated effectively with team members and the public
- Responded promptly to alarms and emergencies, following established protocols.
Service Station Attendant
SEQ Fuels
1996 - 1999
- Delivered customer service in fast-paced environment, enhancing customer satisfaction
- Handled cash transactions and maintained accuracy
- Maintained awareness of surroundings to ensure personal and public safety
- Managed difficult customer interactions professionally
- Worked independently and responsibly in a high-contact environment
- Ensured operational continuity by providing relief at various sites.
Apprentice Carpenter
D Wildman Carpentry
1993 - 1998
- Performed tasks in physically demanding environments while ensuring focus and safety awareness.
- Assisted in measuring and cutting materials for carpentry projects.
- Operated hand and power tools safely and efficiently on job sites.
- Supported experienced carpenters in assembling structures and frameworks.
- Followed strict safety procedures on job sites
Sales Team Manager
Foxtel
1996 - 1996
- Engaged with customers and built rapport quickly
- Developed strong communication and persuasion skills
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth workflow and team productivity.
- Led sales team in achieving product knowledge and customer engagement.
Radio Announcer / Copywriter
4ZR Radio
1989 - 1992
- Developed strong verbal communication and public engagement skills
- Delivered clear and confident messaging to a broad audience
- Conducted live broadcasts and engaged listeners with dynamic commentary.
Education
Certificate III - Barbering (Trade Qualification)
TAFE QLD
QLDRadio Broadcasting Certificate
Australian TV & Radio School
North Ryde, NSWInfection Control Certification- HLTINFCOV001
TAFE QLD
QLDYear 12 Certificate
Noosa District State High School
Noosa, QLDSkills
Situational awareness & risk assessment
Conflict resolution & de-escalation
Public interaction & communication
Personal safety & incident response
Observational skills & attention to detail
Ability to remain calm under pressure
Team coordination & independent work
Professional conduct & discretion
Customer service & relationship building
Problem-solving in fast-paced environments
Timeline
Owner / Operator
Loco Barber Co
2019 - Current
Barber
Sharon’s Barber Shop
2012 - 2019
Contractor
Rogue Tattoo
2012 - 2019
Owner / Operator
Rogue Galley Tattoo
2008 - 2012
Owner / Operator
Rudy’s Tattoo Shop
2004 - 2008
Contract Tattoo Artist
Vision Skin Tattoos
1999 - 2004
Security Officer
Australia Protection Services
1996 - 1999
Service Station Attendant
SEQ Fuels
1996 - 1999
Apprentice Carpenter
D Wildman Carpentry
1993 - 1998
Sales Team Manager
Foxtel
1996 - 1996
Radio Announcer / Copywriter
4ZR Radio
1989 - 1992
Certificate III - Barbering (Trade Qualification)
TAFE QLD
Radio Broadcasting Certificate
Australian TV & Radio School
Infection Control Certification- HLTINFCOV001
TAFE QLD
Year 12 Certificate
Noosa District State High School