Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Timeline
Generic
Sharlene Johnston

Sharlene Johnston

Plimmerton,Wellington

Summary

Dynamic Owner & Sole operator of the small NZ business Designer Wheat Bags By Sharlene, excelling in client relationship management that enhances customer satisfaction through high-quality products and exceptional service.

Strong attention to detail, streamlined processes and a dependable work ethic has contributed to the growth and success in my business.


With my current & previous roles I have gained great knowledge and experience with managing all aspects of business operations, including manufacturing, marketing, sales, financial budgeting and reporting. This has fostered strong customer relationships and contributed to driving business growth through innovative ideas & solutions throughout my working career.


I wish to maintain my own business at its current level as I desire to pursue an additional role outside my home. I would love to work part time with another New Zealand business, & the opportunity to work alongside a team of colleagues.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience

Work History

Owner Operator

Designer Wheat Bags By Sharlene
02.2020 - Current
  • Design, Manufacture & Market products to a small retail network across NZ
  • Provide exceptional customer service, addressing requests promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Manage daily operations for optimal efficiency, streamlining processes to reduce costs.
  • Increase customer satisfaction by providing high-quality products.
  • Oversee inventory management, reducing waste and maintaining adequate stock levels to meet demand.
  • Develop and nurture lasting customer relationships by projecting a professional image and responding quickly to client orders and emails.

Administration / Finance Manager

Vertex Scaffolding
01.2015 - 02.2025
  • Daily reconciliation of bank accounts and account receivables.
  • Processed invoices and contacted appropriate parties for timely payment receipt.
  • Oversee payroll processing including data entry and checking of accuracy and batch payment loading.
  • Supported financial director with special projects and additional job duties.
  • Processing reports and payment of all IRD obligations including PAYE, Provisional Tax & GST
  • Maintained electronic and paper filing systems for easy retrieval of information.
  • Answered multi-line phone system, routing calls, delivering messages to staff.
  • Organised events for company gatherings, accommodation for out of town travel and permanent housing for immigrating employees.

Office Administrator & Retail Sales Assistant

Devon & Patterson Carpets
02.2010 - 10.2015
  • Answered phones, routing calls, delivering messages to staff and greeting visitors.
  • Coordinated communications, financial processing, registration, recordkeeping, and other administrative functions.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment by fostering strong working relationships among colleagues.
  • Increased customer satisfaction through professional handling of inquiries and prompt resolution of issues.
  • Demonstrated exceptional multitasking abilities while juggling diverse responsibilities, including reception duties and administrative tasks.
  • Aided in employee onboarding through training new hires on office procedures, software applications, and company policies.
  • Greeted customers and helped with product questions, selections, and purchases.
  • Built strong relationships with commercial customers, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Addressed customer issues tactfully, resolving any concerns while maintaining a high level of professionalism.
  • Improved store appearance with effective merchandising and creative displays.
  • Assisted in inventory management, ensuring accurate stock levels for optimal sales performance.
  • Increased sales by offering advice on purchases and promoting additional products.
  • Increased sales by providing exceptional customer service and product knowledge.

Account Manager

Feltex Carpets Limited
01.1996 - 09.2007
  • Portfolio of 30 Retail accounts across the central Country of NZ being Taupo South and the Top of the North Island.
  • Strong Focus on in-store Brand Management and building of strong relationships.
  • Responsible for all account management regarding sales in-store merchandising and achieving annual budgets.
  • Successfully resolved escalated issues, preventing potential loss of valuable clients while maintaining positive relationships with all parties involved and working with clients to achieve targets and set budgets.

Education

Fashion Design & Technology - Fashion Design Patternmaking & Textiles

Wellington Polytechnic
Wellington, NZ

Skills

  • Highly skilled in Client relationship management
  • Operations management
  • Great interpersonal skills with colleagues
  • Documentation, Data entry and payment processing
  • Maintaining spreadsheets & reports
  • Personnel time management
  • Strength in Design, presentation & Merchandising
  • Attention to detail
  • Self Motivated to work alone or with a Team
  • Quick Learning new tasks
  • Dependable and reliable with a strong work ethic
  • Excellent personal presentation

Interests

I enjoy outdoor activities on the water including boating and skiing with my husband & family

I'm passionate about interior design and following current trends

Cake decorating is a favourite hobby of mine & creating cakes for family birthdays

Socialising with Friends and Family is also an important part of my life



Timeline

Owner Operator

Designer Wheat Bags By Sharlene
02.2020 - Current

Administration / Finance Manager

Vertex Scaffolding
01.2015 - 02.2025

Office Administrator & Retail Sales Assistant

Devon & Patterson Carpets
02.2010 - 10.2015

Account Manager

Feltex Carpets Limited
01.1996 - 09.2007

Fashion Design & Technology - Fashion Design Patternmaking & Textiles

Wellington Polytechnic

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Sharlene Johnston