Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Certification
Timeline
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Karl Kowalski

Karl Kowalski

Surrey,BC

Summary

Proven leader with a track record of driving sales growth and enhancing customer satisfaction at Shoppers Drug Mart. Skilled in inventory maintenance and fostering team collaboration, I've led teams to achieve top engagement levels and effectively managed store operations. Expertise in merchandise display and staff recruitment has significantly contributed to surpassing competitive offerings.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Front Store Manager

Shoppers Drug Mart
12.2017 - 06.2024
  • Oversaw double digit sales & profit increases in 3 of the last 4 fiscal years.
  • Raised staff satisfaction and engagement levels to a 97% showing in our latest annual Engagement Survey (#1 in Shoppers Drug Mart stores in Western Canada)
  • Monitored and minimized liability of discontinued and damaged inventory by executing timely returns to vendors according to vendor return policies.
  • Identified areas for improvement within the store layout; implemented changes that resulted in more effective use of space while enhancing shopper experience.
  • Facilitated regular training sessions on product knowledge, sales techniques, and customer service skills to empower staff members in their roles.
  • Streamlined front store operations by implementing efficient inventory management systems and staff scheduling.
  • Implemented new planograms and planogram adjustments to increase customer purchases.
  • Established inventory control measures that reduced excess stock and improved in-store organization, leading to better customer satisfaction.
  • Maintained store quality standards to optimize customer experience, drive customer traffic and positively impact store profitability.
  • Assessed competitors'' offerings regularly to maintain an edge over the competition by staying informed about market trends.

Assistant Front Store Manager

Shoppers Drug Mart
09.2014 - 12.2017
  • Improved customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and promptly addressing concerns.
  • Assisted in budget management, monitoring expenses and identifying areas for cost reduction.
  • Actively participated in weekly meetings to discuss store performance, goals, and upcoming initiatives.
  • Conducted inventory and managed purchasing processes and replenishment activities to keep products stocked.
  • Monitored and minimized liability of discontinued and damaged inventory by executing timely returns to vendors according to vendor return policies.
  • Trained and mentored new employees, fostering a positive team atmosphere and increased productivity.
  • Contributed creative ideas for improving store layout and product presentation to enhance visual appeal.
  • Proactively identified potential security risks within the store environment, taking appropriate measures to minimize losses due to theft or damage.
  • Reviewed customer reports and feedback with management team and developed action plans to address customer complaints.

Poker Manager/Casino Pit Manager

Great Canadian Gaming Company
03.2010 - 07.2014
  • Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
  • Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
  • Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
  • Mentored junior team members for career advancement, fostering a pipeline of future leaders within the organization.

Casino Manager

Players Club Casino
12.2007 - 06.2009
  • Organized and controlled numerous blackjack and poker tournaments every month.
  • Analyzed financial data to make informed decisions on budgeting, staffing, and resource allocation within the casino.
  • Increased customer satisfaction through attentive service and quick resolution of concerns.
  • Ensured compliance with gaming regulations by conducting regular audits and maintaining accurate records.
  • Promoted a positive work environment by encouraging teamwork, open communication, and ongoing professional development for staff members.
  • Developed marketing strategies to attract new patrons and retain existing customers.
  • Oversaw recruitment process for staff members, ensuring selection of qualified candidates who contributed positively to company culture and performance standards.
  • Implemented employee training programs to enhance staff skills and knowledge in the casino industry.

Casino Pit Manager

Fallsview Casino Resort
11.1996 - 12.2007
  • Evaluated dealer performance regularly through observations and coaching sessions, ensuring consistency in gaming procedures and customer service.
  • Cultivated a positive work environment by fostering open communication and encouraging team collaboration among pit staff members.
  • Collaborated with other departments such as security, surveillance, and marketing to optimize customer experience within the casino.
  • Maintained consistent gameplay standards across all tables through continuous monitoring and coaching of dealers.
  • Improved operational efficiency by implementing effective procedures for opening and closing daily activities at the casino pit area.
  • Promoted a safe gambling environment for patrons by monitoring gameplay closely, identifying irregularities or suspicious behavior.
  • Analyzed gaming floor performance data to make informed decisions about game offerings and table limits adjustments.

Education

High School Diploma -

Assumption College School
Windsor, ON
06.1988

Skills

  • Customer Service
  • Store operations
  • Health and safety
  • Stock Rotation
  • Recruitment and hiring
  • Task Delegation
  • Inventory Maintenance
  • Opening and closing procedures
  • Schedule Creation
  • Store Layout
  • Merchandise Display
  • Sales Analysis

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Certification

SmartServe/Serving It Right

Timeline

Front Store Manager

Shoppers Drug Mart
12.2017 - 06.2024

Assistant Front Store Manager

Shoppers Drug Mart
09.2014 - 12.2017

Poker Manager/Casino Pit Manager

Great Canadian Gaming Company
03.2010 - 07.2014

Casino Manager

Players Club Casino
12.2007 - 06.2009

Casino Pit Manager

Fallsview Casino Resort
11.1996 - 12.2007

High School Diploma -

Assumption College School
Karl Kowalski