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
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 -
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