Chris McDaniel
General Manager
Durban
Summary
Customer-oriented General Manager with 17 years of experience focused on increasing revenues and expanding margin. Adaptive and deadline-oriented consistently executes and completes multiple projects in high-stress environments. Meticulous leader and strategic planner with comprehensive managerial acumen, offering vision and motivational acumen.
To seek and maintain full-time position that offers professional challenges utilizing interpersonal skills, excellent time management and problem-solving skills.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Rain Farm Game and Lodge
01.2019 - Current
- Implemented robust inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and minimize waste/costs associated with excess product storage.
- Directed comprehensive sales efforts to exceed revenue targets consistently while maintaining customer satisfaction levels.
- Implemented effective cost-saving measures to reduce overhead expenses without compromising quality or service.
- Managed a diverse team of staff from different demographics, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
- Drove the successful execution of numerous large-scale events/promotions while closely managing costs/budgetary constraints associated with event planning/management activities.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Drove year-over-year business growth while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
- Reduced financial inconsistencies while assessing and verifying billing invoices and expense reports.
Sales Manager
VDP Prestige Distributors
05.2011 - 12.2018
- Resolved customer issues quickly to close deals and boost client satisfaction.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities, leading to expansion into profitable territories.
- Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, ensuring the best pricing and terms for company profitability.
- Coached employees in successful selling methods and encouraged cross-selling to drive revenue.
- Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
- Attended industry shows, conventions, and other meetings with primary mission of expanding market opportunities.
- Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
- Exceeded sales quotas and increased profitability through effective sales strategy and business planning.
- Compiled and analyzed data to determine approaches to improve sales and performance.
- Maintained relationships with customers and found new ones by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
- Met with clients, delivering presentations, and educating on product and service features and offerings.
- Grew sales and boosted profits, applying proactive management strategies and enhancing sales training.
Managing Director
Beijing Cape Chateau Wine Importers
12.2007 - 12.2010
- Spearheaded the introduction of South African fine wines into the Chinese market
- Successfully became lingual in Mandarin in order to better understand the culture, train staff and deal with the local market in a direct manner.
- Established the first South African food and wine establishment in China (Beijing)
- Strengthened client relationships with regular communication, timely project delivery, and high-quality services.
- Delivered consistent revenue growth by identifying new business opportunities and expanding service offerings (Multiple cities across China)
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
- Reduced operational risks while organizing data to forecast performance trends.
- Developed comprehensive business plans, outlining long-term goals and actionable steps toward success.
- Negotiated new annual contracts and service agreements with vendors to achieve prime pricing.
Financial Advisor
Pinnacle Financial Services
04.2006 - 01.2007
- Built strong relationships with clients, fostering trust and loyalty in managing their financial portfolios.
- Developed comprehensive financial plans for clients to achieve short-term and long-term goals.
- Provided comprehensive retirement planning services, ensuring clients maintain their desired lifestyle postretirement.
- Educated clients on various financial matters and provided professional recommendations on investment opportunities, products, and services based on each clients' individual needs.
- Developed personal rapport with each client to maintain customer loyalty and establish long-term accounts.
Education
No Degree - Mandarin
Beijing Language And Culture University
Beijing 04.2001 -
Bachelor of Business - Marketing Management And Research
Unisa
Durban, South Africa 04.2001 -
High School Diploma -
Durban High School
Durban, South Africa 04.2001 -
Skills
Operations Management
Customer Relationship Management
Team Leadership
Efficient multi-tasker
Staff Supervision
Performance Improvement
Business Development
Relationship Building
Financial Administration
Cost analysis and savings
Problem Resolution
Sales expertise
Languages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Afrikaans
Intermediate (B1)
Chinese (Mandarin)
Elementary (A2)
Running, Fishing
I thoroughly enjoy any outdoor sporting codes, i enjoy living a balanced healthy life through gym and cooking
Timeline
General Manager
Rain Farm Game and Lodge
01.2019 - Current
Sales Manager
VDP Prestige Distributors
05.2011 - 12.2018
Managing Director
Beijing Cape Chateau Wine Importers
12.2007 - 12.2010
Financial Advisor
Pinnacle Financial Services
04.2006 - 01.2007
No Degree - Mandarin
Beijing Language And Culture University
04.2001 -
Bachelor of Business - Marketing Management And Research
Unisa
04.2001 -
High School Diploma -
Durban High School
04.2001 -