Karen Downey
Consett,Durham
Summary
A results-driven professional with a strong focus on driving business growth and optimising business processes. Demonstrates a deep understanding of business accounting and practices, coupled with expertise in business rates advice and future-proofing businesses. Skilled in identifying and tracking business leads, providing administrative support, and developing new business opportunities. Committed to maintaining strong business ethics while enhancing organisational performance.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Business Support
Dipton Care Home Ltd
Stanley, County Durham
2013.01 - Current
- Communicate with Management, Company Director and Head Office team to ensure the smooth running of the business.
- Liaise with external professionals to promote residents well fare.
- Producing accurate reports to support the business.
- Oversee administration to ensure targets are met.
- Collate payroll on a weekly/monthly basis.
- Provide induction training for new staff.
- Working with the legal team to provide management support for all personnel investigations.
- Action enquiries to promote future business, providing up to date information of the home, both business and caring.
- Respond proactively to changing demands to provide flexible, reactive business support.
- Provide support during crisis situations to ensure minimum impact on business operations.
- Support overall business goals with diligent execution of assigned projects.
- Support team by demonstrating respect and willingness to help.
- Provide ongoing customer support, promoting high levels of satisfaction.
- Deliver personalised support to service users, enhancing their well-being.
Administrator
Stoneleigh Care Home
Stanley, County Durham
2013.01 - 2019.01
- Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining confidentiality at all times as required by protocol.
- Contributed towards positive work environment by maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in shared spaces.
- Streamlined office operations by implementing efficient administrative procedures.
- Compiled essential data into useful spreadsheets enhancing overall understanding of business performance.
- Answered inbound phone calls, resulting in excellent customer service provided to clients.
- Managed office supplies inventory, ensuring readiness for all projects at any given time.
- Maintained high levels of data accuracy for smooth business operations by conducting regular database audits.
- Facilitated internal communications with clear and concise memos and bulletins.
- Processed expense reports, resulting in accurate financial records maintained consistently.
Store Manager
Arcadia Group
Newcastle upon Tyne, Newcastle upon Tyne
2001.06 - 2012.12
- Provide excellent customer care.
- Drive sales to hit weekly/yearly targets.
- Managed staff rosters, ensuring adequate coverage during peak times.
- Resolved customer complaints effectively, protecting the store's image and consumer relationships.
- Handled cash transactions accurately, minimising financial discrepancies at the till.
- Oversaw visual merchandising efforts that enhanced overall store appearance.
- Conducted performance appraisals for staff members, providing constructive feedback and identifying areas for improvement.
- Led training sessions for new employees, equipping them with necessary skills and knowledge.
- Boosted store's reputation for excellence through meticulous upkeep, product presentation and customer service.
- Implemented promotional displays to increase product visibility and sales.
- Coached under performing employees improving their job performance significantly.
Deputy manager
Arcadia Group
Grays, Thurrock
1992.05 - 2001.05
- Supervised team members for optimal task completion.
- Oversaw project execution, ensuring timelines were met efficiently.
- Reduced operational inefficiencies by streamlining workflow processes.
- Collaborated with the manager to achieve organisational goals.
Education
GCSEs - English Literature/Language, Mathematics, Economics/Business Studies, Modern History, Geography.
Hebburn Comprehensive School
Hebburn, South Tyneside 1975.09 - 1982.07
NVQ Level 3 - Business Studies
Stoneleigh Care Home
Skills
- Driving business growth
- Awareness of business practices
- Business rates advice
- Strong business ethics
- Future-Proofing businesses
- Business lead identification and tracking
- Administrative support performance
- Understanding of business accounting
- Optimising business processes
- New business development
Affiliations
- Paddle boarding
- Walking
- Horse riding
- Reading
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Business Support
Dipton Care Home Ltd
2013.01 - Current
Administrator
Stoneleigh Care Home
2013.01 - 2019.01
Store Manager
Arcadia Group
2001.06 - 2012.12
Deputy manager
Arcadia Group
1992.05 - 2001.05
GCSEs - English Literature/Language, Mathematics, Economics/Business Studies, Modern History, Geography.
Hebburn Comprehensive School
1975.09 - 1982.07
NVQ Level 3 - Business Studies
Stoneleigh Care Home