Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Graham Baister

Swansea,West Glamorgan

Summary

Dynamic professional with a robust skill set encompassing product knowledge, communication, and customer service. Demonstrates expertise in operations management and product development, complemented by an engaging leadership style. Known for excellent work ethic, brand management proficiency, and meticulous attention to detail. Punctual and reliable, committed to driving organisational success through strategic initiatives.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work history

Payment Consultant

Dojo
Swansea, United Kingdom
02.2025 - Current

I started working with Dojo as the position fits in well with my Footwear agency as this involves traveling around the country and visiting different towns and cities.

I have experience working with the Dojo tech and card payment system through my Resturant as we use Dojo within the business.

Working for Dojo involves researching and then contacting various businesses to engage with them on the value and benefits of using Dojo as their merchant payment supplier. The job also involves cold calling into businesses to speek with the business owner and discuss their needs and any issues that they may have with their current payment provider. If a business shows interested in working with Dojo it is my task to deuces more with them about the system and benefits that Dojo can bring to their business. It is then to me to sign them up to Dojo and look after their business and act as customer service going forward.

  • Provided excellent customer service, received commendations from clients frequently.
  • Secured customer satisfaction by resolving complaints effectively.
  • Generated new business opportunities for company growth.
  • Managed daily operations ensuring smooth workflow and coordination.
  • Established professional relationships to foster client retention.
  • Served as first point of contact with exceptional communication skills.
  • Increased brand awareness with successful promotional strategies.
  • Maintained high standards of service for positive customer experiences.
  • Negotiated contracts resulting in profitable deals and partnerships.
  • Conducted market research to identify potential leads.
  • Provided exceptional customer care to uphold brand standards and reputation.
  • Prospected clients to increase new business leads and conversions.
  • Presented proposals and pitches to engage clients with new campaign ideas.
  • Helped resolve client problems quickly with superior customer service.

Social Interviewer

National Centre for Social Research
Swansea, Wales
03.2025 - Current

Working for that National Centre for Social Research has allowed me to incorporate all of the sales and people skills that I have learned over the many years working g in Sales. The job involves contacting and interviewing households as part of a national social survey to gain the households point of view on certain topics. The information is then fed back to the principal who commissioned the survey. I find this job very rewarding as I meet lots of different people from different backgrounds and the information that I am commissioned to gather then feeds back to help improve the local area and households living situations,

  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for development of effective social policies.
  • Communicated complex concepts effectively during public consultations about new policies.
  • Enhanced public awareness of social issues by publishing articles and giving presentations.
  • Conducted fieldwork within diverse communities to gain firsthand insights into their unique challenges.
  • Built positive relationships with local representatives to stay current on needs and understand policy impacts.
  • Worked within communities to build trust and compile data for future policy changes.

Independent Sales Agent

Plakton. Eurogloria SL
UK
06.2011 - 10.2024
  • I have worked with Eurogloria for over 12 years developing their sales on their brand Plakton in the UK market. I also outsource production for this factory and have developed product for many large well known retailers such as Next, John Lewis, Office, TK Maxx and Schuh over many seasons. My main responsibility was to achieve company sales targets with key accounts and management of a small team of sales agents to keep them motivated and maker sure they have the tools they needed for them to achieve targeted results.


  • Boosted brand recognition by conducting regular product demonstrations.
  • Established strong relationships with customers for improved sales performance.
  • Delivered excellent customer service to ensure repeat business.
  • Identified potential leads through extensive market research.
  • Increased client base with proactive networking strategies.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of products, resulting in effective sales pitches.
  • Assisted clients in making informed buying decisions by providing detailed product information.
  • Conducted frequent competitor analysis to stay ahead of market trends.
  • Provided thorough after-sales support for heightened customer satisfaction.
  • Collaborated closely with other sales agents for shared knowledge and resources.

Sales agent

Sweet Footwear London Ltd
Swansea, City and County of Swansea
08.2010 - 10.2024

Through Sweet Footwear London Ltd I worked as an independent sales agent Assigned to represent Footwear and Fashion brands from around the world and contact existing and new potential retailers within my Territory which was Wales/South West of the UK and Ireland. The job entailed reaching out and making contact with Customers, making appointments and visiting client with samples for the next season. During the meetings my task was to present the new lines, advise customers on where the strengths are in the collection and to then take and process customers orders. I used b2b and direct sales to obtain and process my orders and met company sales targets. The main skills involved were customer service, organisation, planing my appointment week, travel planning and the following up by traveling to visit the customers by car all over my territory. I have represented high quality fashion brands such as Emu Australia, Globe, Rocket Dog, Sketchers, Art, Buffalo London, Skull Candy and Spiral bags.

  • Established robust client relationships through effective communication and negotiation skills.
  • Managed product demonstrations for increased customer engagement.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Boosted brand visibility by organising promotional events.
  • Maintained detailed records of sales activities for accurate forecasting.
  • Conducted market research to identify new business opportunities.
  • Enhanced sales performance with thorough knowledge of product range.
  • Developed sales pitches tailored specifically to individual client needs.
  • Attended industry conferences for networking and client acquisition.
  • Navigated challenging negotiations successfully whilst maintaining strong relationships with clients.
  • Liaised effectively between customers and internal departments to facilitate smooth transactions.
  • Continually developed professional knowledge in the field of sales techniques and market trends.
  • Displayed excellent multitasking abilities during high-pressure situations, ensuring optimal service delivery.
  • Provided after-sales support as required, enhancing overall customer experience.
  • Performed regular follow-ups with prospective customers, leading to increased conversion rates.
  • Used active listening and relationship-building skills to assess customer needs, build rapport and deliver viable solutions.
  • Negotiated and closed sales to secure profitable deals and contracts.
  • Warmly greeted customers to establish positive first impressions, enhancing in-store experiences.
  • Remained knowledgeable in current stock to provide helpful, informative customer advice.
  • Retained customers by building rapport and delivering tailored product recommendations.
  • Highlighted product features and benefits in line with customer needs, securing high-value sales.
  • Placed customer orders, providing guidance on product delivery timeframes.
  • Maintained excellent knowledge of industry trends to remain ahead of competitors.

Outsourcing Support. Vietnam/Spain/Portugal

Sweet Footwear London Ltd
Swansea, City and County of Swansea
01.2024 - 10.2024
  • Working through Sweet Footwear London Ltd we specialised in support and development of footwear brands and footwear retailers looking to outsource from Vietnam. The company we represented offered a full UK back office support to customers 7/days a week and daily on site QC throughout the process by the Vietnam office. High Quality and competitive pricing offerings to customers. .
  • Assisted in drafting proposals, secured new projects.
  • Collaborated on the development of strategic plans for business growth.
  • Maintained regular communication with clients, ensured satisfaction with delivered services.
  • Contributed innovative ideas during team brainstorming sessions, encouraged creativity and problem-solving approach within the team.
  • Streamlined processes by liaising with multi-department teams.
  • Facilitated client meetings to communicate project updates and milestones.
  • Optimised time management with careful planning and prioritisation of tasks.
  • Conducted research for improved cost-efficiency in outsourcing tasks.
  • Analysed industry trends to identify potential opportunities for business expansion.

Founder/Co Owner Oak&Hyde

Oak&Hyde Ltd
Trowbridge, Wiltshire
01.2015 - 10.2024
  • Oak&Hyde was Founded and conceived myself in 2015. From the many years of working within the footwear industry Oak&Hyde was developed as an all Leather Commercial Fashion Footwear Brand made for outdoor living and made exclusively in Europe. Using only the Best European Leathers and materials the aim is to make Product without Compromise. Since relaunching the brand at the beginning of 2024 we have growth on online sales on 2023. You can see more about Oak&Hyde by visiting the website Oakandhyde.co.uk.
  • Led negotiations with vendors and suppliers, securing favourable terms.
  • Designed business strategies to obtain short and long-term goals for company.
  • Worked with board of directors to establish objectives and decisively lead operations.
  • Introduced new marketing campaigns, boosted brand image.
  • Directed team to deliver high-quality customer service.

Restaurant Owner

Kokodoo, Menu Collective Ltd
Swansea, City and County of Swansea
04.2022 - 10.2024

Kokodoo is a dynamic Korean Fried Chicken Street Food specialist. I set this business up in 2021. Working with the main franchise owner we aim to offer the customer the full Kokodoo experience. Creating crispy, Juicy, tasty chicken with homemade authentic Korean flavours that give a chicken experience that is second to none. we employ 18 staff locally and staff are trained to ensure that all standards are to the highest level. This business is has a management and accountancy structure in place so that it runs smoothly day to day.

  • Improved restaurant efficiency by implementing new management systems.
  • Ensured seamless operation with consistent staff training sessions.
  • Managed daily operations to maintain smooth service flow.
  • Handled customer complaints, resulting in improved guest relations.
  • Streamlined food preparation processes for faster service delivery.
  • Implemented health and safety regulations, ensuring a secure environment.
  • Negotiated with vendors for cost-effective procurement of supplies.
  • Maintained high hygiene standards, contributing to excellent health inspection results.
  • Scheduled staff shifts ensuring optimal coverage during peak hours.
  • Optimised inventory control procedures reducing wastage and increasing profitability.
  • Managed payroll by tracking employee hours and entitlements.
  • Supervised restaurant operations and enforced food and safety standards.
  • Checked end-of-day finances against orders processed to minimise losses.
  • Recruited staff to fill vacancies and accommodate growth.
  • Trained and equipped new staff with restaurant values and standards to keep guests happy.
  • Managed repair and maintenance activities to fix broken and faulty equipment.
  • Monitored servers to identify and resolve lapses in service delivery.
  • Organised deliveries to customers for online and to-go orders.
  • Harnessed tools and technologies, streamlining restaurant operations.
  • Resolved complaints calmly and professionally to achieve positive customer outcomes.
  • Led by example in providing customers with attentive, professional restaurant service.

Sales Agent.

New Era Cap Co
Milton Keynes
08.2012 - 05.2018
  • I worked as the sales agent for New Era Cap co for the republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
    Managed and developed key accounts such as Lifestyle Sports, Elvery's, DV8 along with a number of smaller sport and fashion retailers across the country.
    Attended quarterly product sales meetings and managed growth with key accounts. As part of the UK/Ireland team won EMEA Team of the year in 2014.
    www.neweracap.co.uk
  • Established robust client relationships through effective communication and negotiation skills.
  • Managed product demonstrations for increased customer engagement.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Boosted brand visibility by organising promotional events.
  • Collaborated closely with marketing team to develop sales strategies.
  • Maintained detailed records of sales activities for accurate forecasting.
  • Conducted market research to identify new business opportunities.
  • Enhanced sales performance with thorough knowledge of product range.
  • Developed sales pitches tailored specifically to individual client needs.
  • Attended industry conferences for networking and client acquisition.
  • Fostered a positive team environment to drive collective success in sales targets.
  • Navigated challenging negotiations successfully whilst maintaining strong relationships with clients.
  • Tracked competitor activity and adjusted strategies accordingly for market advantage.
  • Provided after-sales support as required, enhancing overall customer experience.
  • Performed regular follow-ups with prospective customers, leading to increased conversion rates.
  • Delivered presentations at company meetings showcasing progress and future plans.
  • Understood store goals and used upselling and cross-selling techniques to achieve targets.

Service Department

Bassetts Citroen
Swansea, Swansea
03.2008 - 04.2010
  • Worked within a large car dealership greeting customers and taking business calls. Working to support all parts of the business directing customers to departments such as service, new sales and workshop. Also following up with after sales and new service bookings and supporting customers by phone to resolve any issues or questions.


  • Provided information for product inquiries, leading to increased sales.
  • Offered assistance to team members during peak hours, promoting efficiency.
  • Consistently met targets by effectively handling high volume of calls daily.
  • Managed appointments with clients for better time management.
  • Greeted customers warmly upon arrival, creating a welcoming environment.
  • Handled customer queries via telephone and email, ensuring clear communication.
  • Built enduring relationships with clients through excellent service provision over time.

Retail Store Manger

Island Leaisure
Swansea, City and County of Swansea
07.1996 - 07.1998

During University I took a part time sales assistant job for a local fashion store called Island Leisure. During my time there I learnt about different brand products and features and benefits of different product lines. I also became more confident as my position involved speaking with customers and giving advice. I also had to close sales and advise customers on different products to drive add on sales. This job also involved taking payments. After one year of working there I was promoted to assistant manager and took on more responsibility's including opening up and closing up the store, making decisions of customer discounts and refunds and also buying stock for the store.

  • Solved customer complaints efficiently whilst maintaining high standards of service delivery,.
  • Fostered strong relationships with key customers to boost loyalty and repeat business.
  • Oversaw daily shop operations, ensuring smooth running of business activities.
  • Ensured cleanliness of shop premises, presenting a professional image to customers.
  • Assisted customers in making informed buying decisions through expert advice on products,.
  • Monitored competitor activities, responding creatively to maintain relevancy and competitive edge.
  • Evaluated products to select mix meeting current customer demand.
  • Followed industry trends and set pricing strategies to maximise business returns.
  • Negotiated buying conditions and sales contracts to secure lucrative deals.
  • Managed store inventory to ensure adequate stock levels at all times.
  • Boosted overall sales performance through the implementation of effective merchandising strategies.
  • Negotiated with suppliers for better prices, leading to improved profit margins.

Sales Assistant

The Body Shop
Swansea, City and County of Swansea
10.1995 - 02.1997

I worked on a part time basis at the Body shop during university so support my studies. This job increased my confidence and I learned about the different body shop products and managed stock intake and created gift basket displays for sales to customers.

  • Assisted customers with product selection for optimal satisfaction.
  • Fostered a welcoming store environment by maintaining clean and well-organised displays.
  • Ensured stock replenishment in a timely manner to maintain product availability.
  • Demonstrated products effectively leading to increased sales conversions.
  • Handled high-pressure situations calmly, keeping store operation seamless during peak hours.

Cruse Ship Photographer/Video

Carnival Cruise Line
Miami, Florida
06.1999 - 10.2000
  • This was my first job after University. Having studied Photography I wanted to work in this field but found that finding a position in Photography quite hard. I saw this job advert in a national Newspaper and have always been interested in Traveling. The position was as a cruise ship Photographer/Videographer. On being accepted I was told that my position would be as an assistant on the MS Elation saying out of Miami and the cruises were to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. I very much enjoyed this job and was soon was promoted to Manager. Over the next year I was transferred from Ship to ship across the fleet training up and re-training staff as to best practices and helping to add to their skill set. Over the period that I worked for Carnival I worked on over 10 different ships and had some of the best experiences of my live. I caused all the islands in the Caribbean, New Orleans, All of Mexico working out of California and also Alaska and Hawaii. I developed many skills in Video filming and production and made many good friend along the way.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality photographs.


  • Collaborated with clients to understand their vision for resulting in personalised photo shoots.
  • Utilised advanced lighting techniques to create visually appealing images.
  • Organised photo assignments across various locations whilst coordinating with team members efficiently.
  • Managed schedules efficiently meeting project deadlines consistently.
  • Identified suitable locations for outdoor shoots enhancing overall visual effect.
  • Demonstrated professionalism in dealing with clients to achieve customer satisfaction.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Photography

Swansea Univercity
Swansea, City and County of Swansea
09/1995 - 07/1999

Foundation Degree in Arts - Photography

Harltepool College of further Education
Hartlepool
09/1993 - 07/1995

GCSEs - GCSEs

English Martyres School
Hartlepool
09/1986 - 07/1992

Skills


  • Product knowledge
  • Communication
  • Customer Service
  • Operations management
  • Engaging leadership style
  • Product development expertise
  • Excellent work ethic
  • Brand management
  • Attention to Detail
  • Punctual and reliable

Timeline

Social Interviewer

National Centre for Social Research
03.2025 - Current

Payment Consultant

Dojo
02.2025 - Current

Outsourcing Support. Vietnam/Spain/Portugal

Sweet Footwear London Ltd
01.2024 - 10.2024

Restaurant Owner

Kokodoo, Menu Collective Ltd
04.2022 - 10.2024

Founder/Co Owner Oak&Hyde

Oak&Hyde Ltd
01.2015 - 10.2024

Sales Agent.

New Era Cap Co
08.2012 - 05.2018

Independent Sales Agent

Plakton. Eurogloria SL
06.2011 - 10.2024

Sales agent

Sweet Footwear London Ltd
08.2010 - 10.2024

Service Department

Bassetts Citroen
03.2008 - 04.2010

Cruse Ship Photographer/Video

Carnival Cruise Line
06.1999 - 10.2000

Retail Store Manger

Island Leaisure
07.1996 - 07.1998

Sales Assistant

The Body Shop
10.1995 - 02.1997

Bachelor of Arts - Photography

Swansea Univercity
09/1995 - 07/1999

Foundation Degree in Arts - Photography

Harltepool College of further Education
09/1993 - 07/1995

GCSEs - GCSEs

English Martyres School
09/1986 - 07/1992
Graham Baister