Randall Benson

I leverage a strong leadership background and process improvement strategies to effectively manage a range of tasks and oversee daily operations in place of an absentee owner. My responsibilities include payroll, HR, hiring and termination, and budgeting, all while leading a rebuilt leadership team, encouraging organizational development, and instilling a culture of selfless service. - Swiftly addressed significant challenges upon hire, notably terminating the previous General Manager for theft, managing OSHA complaints, and restoring team confidence, resulting in a motivated and cohesive workforce. - Significantly improved operational efficiency by 270% by revamping warehouse layout, introducing Six Sigma certification, and implementing lean manufacturing principles. - Named project team lead, responsible for spearheading the implementation of a new ERP system and the development of an industry-first website feature. - Led margin adjustments by repricing 10,000 items to align with market value, resulting in improved profitability. - Initiated and executed the modernization of production processes and equipment, doubling capacity. - Secured the largest contract in company history with a high-end yacht company and architects by investing in targeted marketing. - Establishes a clear understanding of stock levels through effective inventory management, conducting a comprehensive inventory adjustment. - Transformed a nonexistent budget by collaborating with the accountant to develop and expand the company’s budget

In this role, I single-handedly managed the Wausau branch, assuming branch manager responsibilities and demonstrating ownership-like leadership aligned with the company’s progressive approach. - Directed and revitalized a newly formed team in the staffing industry by implementing innovative strategies to overcome challenges and thrive in a competitive environment. - Led the set-up and oversight of a new branch, successfully building a client base and ensuring operational excellence. - Imparted strategic initiative and logistical coordination to secure a contract with Abbeyland Foods, increasing branch revenue by 200%.

I acquired a wealth of leadership experience while completing two tours in Iraq and holding multiple roles throughout a 14-year tenure. I advanced from Private (E1) to Sergeant First Class (E7), attaining a leadership role as Sergeant (E5) before a second deployment. Notably, I earned a promotion to Sergeant at just 20 years old, then earned a Staff Sergeant ranking at 23, becoming the youngest Staff Sergeant in Wisconsin. - Demonstrated exceptional leadership and organizational skills, underscored by managing a howitzer section, overseeing $2M of equipment, and leading a team of 9 soldiers. - Transitioned into a teaching role as 1 of only 30 individuals in the U.S. Army qualified to instruct basic, advanced, and senior-level field artillery courses, taking responsibility for teaching over 200 soldiers. - Leveraged leadership development experience to mentor younger soldiers, fostering growth within the Army.

I quickly adapted to the private sector's ever-changing dynamics to advance from Sales Associate to Store Manager. As Store Manager, I effectively managed daily operations, oversaw a team of 9 direct reports, trained new hires in product lines and sales techniques, ensured inventory control, and balanced daily income while remaining focused on exceeding customer expectations. - Identified areas of operational improvement to drive productivity and efficiency, illustrated by creating new sales training online and updating the employee handbook with six new policies, all of which were implemented. - Recognized for significant contributions, outstanding performance, and positive influence, evidenced by an exclusive offer from the owner to purchase the business. - Self-educated to become a subject matter expert of over 100,000 products and services, achieving the highest monthly sales in company history.