Shelley O'Brien
Christchurch,CAN
Summary
Accomplished Director & Owner at Homestead Health, adept in financial management and relationship building. Expertly navigated significant changes, fostering strong customer loyalty and enhancing brand awareness. Proven track record in strategic planning and people management, achieving operational excellence and financial stability. Skilled in negotiation, ensuring cost-effective operations and employee satisfaction. Currently seeking opportunities to use these transferable skills, including the training and HR aspects, in the field of natural medicine, but not necessarily in a linear role. Natural product manufacturing or a training organisation is of interest where getting involved with the daily operations is as comfortable as in the board room or on the production or shop floor.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Director & Owner
Homestead Health
04.2018 - 09.2024
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability, & overall financial and taxation compliance.
- Navigated company through periods of significant change, maintaining focus on long-term strategic goals including mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with customers, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions both in the retail setting and during individual paid appointments.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Organized and attended special events to showcase products & brand, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
- Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service and sales techniques, leading to increased performance levels.
- Streamlined operations to improve efficiency, enabling more time to be spent on strategic planning and decision making.
Director & Owner
Gymbaroo Christchurch South Limited
08.2011 - 12.2016
- Designed and taught interactive preschool movement bases classes to promote cognitive and social development & education for the caregivers
- Delivered 20 classes per week which involved both the preschoolers and their caregivers, showcasing divergent skills for each.
- Built client basis from 0 to 100 percent capacity
- Managed overall daily activities to achieve operational excellence.
HR Generalist
Various Employers
01.1992 - 12.1999
- Managed employee relations, investigating and resolving conflicts to maintain a positive work environment.
- Collaborated closely with department heads in executing strategic workforce planning initiatives that aligned human capital resources with company goals.
- Developed and implemented training initiatives to improve workforce competency.
- Managed end-to-end recruitment activities, enhancing team capabilities.
- Implemented company acquisitions, ensuring seamless integration and alignment with organisational goals.
- Administered and managed employee benefits programs to ensure comprehensive coverage and satisfaction.
- There were three main employers during this time, each for 4-6 years, both in Christchurch and USA. (Christchurch City Council, Trimble Navigation USA & MWH Christchurch). There was also short term temping in the UK while travelling.
Education
Apprenticeship - Herbal Medicine
Phytofarm
Christchurch01-2024
Diploma - Clinical Nutrition
Canterbury College of Natural Medicine
Christchurch, NZ2011
Post Graduate Diploma - Marketing
University of Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand, NZ1993
Bachelor of Commerce - Management
University of Otago
Dunedin, NZ1992
Skills
- Relationship building & sales
- Financial management
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Business administration
- People management
- Negotiation
Timeline
Director & Owner
Homestead Health
04.2018 - 09.2024
Director & Owner
Gymbaroo Christchurch South Limited
08.2011 - 12.2016
HR Generalist
Various Employers
01.1992 - 12.1999
Apprenticeship - Herbal Medicine
Phytofarm
Diploma - Clinical Nutrition
Canterbury College of Natural Medicine
Post Graduate Diploma - Marketing
University of Canterbury
Bachelor of Commerce - Management
University of Otago
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