Paul Gronner
Gardena
Summary
Customer-focused professional with a strong blend of restaurant industry experience, entrepreneurial fieldwork, and nearly two decades of consultative, high-stakes client engagement. Proven track record of independently sourcing clients, managing complex projects from pitch to close, driving customer decisions, and building trusted long-term relationships. Experienced working on-site, in homes, and in businesses to understand needs, present solutions, and deliver exceptional service. Known for communication, problem solving, and elevating customer experiences.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Art Installer / Client Consultant
LA Art Guy
01.2007 - Current
- 18 years of field-based client service, solution selling, and project leadership
- Led full installation lifecycle for hundreds of residential, commercial, and hospitality clients, often acting as the primary consultant in advising customers on placement, layout, and aesthetic decisions—requiring persuasive communication, needs assessment, and clear value-based recommendations.
- Self-sourced and sustained long-term client relationships, generating repeat business and referrals through trust, reliability, and consultative service.
- Delivered on-site presentations and guided clients through choices, influencing decisions while balancing aesthetics, safety, budget, and installation complexity.
- Managed crews, timelines, and project logistics, ensuring expectations set during initial consultations were met or exceeded in final delivery.
- Navigated high-pressure, fast-paced environments with creativity and flexibility while maintaining a positive client experience.
- Documented project details and tracked customer history using digital tools, demonstrating strong technical adaptability.
- Key Achievements:
- Built a thriving book of business through word-of-mouth, relationship building, and exceptional client satisfaction.
- Recognized for the ability to quickly read client needs, articulate solutions, and close decisions efficiently.
Coffee Shop Manager
Abbot's Habit
01.1999 - 01.2007
- Hands-on restaurant business operations, team leadership, and customer engagement
- Oversaw daily shop operations including staff management, inventory control, ordering, scheduling, and cash management, giving first hand insight into the operational challenges of restaurants.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiated pricing, and built efficient workflows that strengthened shop profitability.
- Trained team members on service standards, upselling techniques, and point-of-sale usage while ensuring smooth service during high-volume periods.
- Delivered exceptional customer experiences by understanding guest needs, resolving issues, and maintaining a welcoming environment.
- Key Achievements:
- Improved operational efficiency and team cohesion, contributing to increased customer satisfaction and repeat patronage.
Skills
- Consultative Sales & Relationship Building — 18 years working directly with clients, guiding decisions, tailoring solutions, and closing service agreements
- Self-Sourcing Expertise — Extensive experience building a client pipeline through outreach, referrals, and reputation
- Restaurant Industry Understanding — Hands-on management experience equips me to speak authentically to restaurant pain points and operational needs
- Presentation & Demo Skills — Skilled at walking clients through options in clear, persuasive ways that highlight value
- Strong Communication — Known for clear, confident, and approachable communication with clients at all decision-making levels
- Technical Proficiency — Quick to learn new software; comfortable with digital documentation, scheduling tools, and POS systems
- Project & Time Management — Able to manage multiple high-touch clients simultaneously with accuracy and professionalism
- Negotiation & Closing — Experienced guiding clients through decisions and influencing final outcomes
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE & STRENGTHS
- Entrepreneurial, self-motivated, and comfortable working independently from a home office or in the field.
- Highly adaptable to fast-paced environments requiring quick thinking and creative problem-solving.
- Deep familiarity with Los Angeles area geography, neighborhoods, and business landscape.
Timeline
Lead Art Installer / Client Consultant
LA Art Guy
01.2007 - Current
Coffee Shop Manager
Abbot's Habit
01.1999 - 01.2007