Warren James Karena

Since December 2002 I have worked in my current role for JA Russell Ltd predominantly as Counter Sales. I have utilized my experience and training during this time to assist electricians to access the most appropriate items for their respective jobs. I have also learned to interact well with individual electricians, building up a rapport with them, and having them feel comfortable sharing how they feel about dealing with our company. This in turn has directly led to us improving on our deliveries, timing and accuracy of orders. Since I have been involved with the purchasing, our product range has improved and our pricing has kept pace with the evolving market. As purchasing officer I routinely run the reordering report weekly, liasing with suppliers and communicating frequently with our inwards goods to ensure that deliveries are received and receipted in in a timely manner. I have had a direct share in improving our stock balance, endeavoring to increase our A class stock and decreasing our B, C class and dead stock.

I eventually decided to try to expand my working experience, so I applied and was accepted for employment at Securimax Ltd. As a member of the Internal Sales Team I would field an average of 30 customer service calls per day. I would also process upwards of 50 emailed and/or faxed purchase orders per day, which required a high level of time management and internal organization.

I began employment with Ideal Hawera once I completed my high school education. I quickly learned to recommend and assist customers to select items based on their requirements. Eventually I expanded my portfolio to include exchanging returned merchandise for customers quickly and efficiently. Once I transfered to the Ideal Penrose branch I served as liaison between customers, store personnel and various store departments. As I grew in confidence and experience I confirmed that appropriate changes were made to resolve customers' problems and became proactive in informing customers about sales and promotions in a friendly and engaging manner. I often tracked down sources of special products and services to meet my customers' special needs.