Jessie Katherine Sword
Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Summary
In collaboration with a diverse clientele, I have facilitated and developed global freight and logistical requirements while managing specialized projects, primarily focused on Waste Management to enhance Circular Economy outcomes. In previous roles, I served as General Manager in a caretaker capacity, overseeing operations and strategic initiatives. Notably, I coordinated the successful completion of a contract with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) to supply 18 recycling pods, along with associated equipment and signage, to Tuvalu and the Cook Islands.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Business and Logistics Manager
Cook Islands General Transport Ltd
Rarotonga
01.1992 - Current
- Developed and managed logistics strategies to improve the efficiency of operations.
- Monitored inventory levels and initiated re-stocking processes when necessary.
- Created reports to track shipment progress, delivery times, and costs associated with transport.
- Analyzed data to identify trends in customer demand and adjusted supply chain accordingly.
- Coordinated with suppliers to ensure timely deliveries of goods.
- Drafted policies regarding storage, distribution, and transportation of products.
- Ensured compliance with government regulations related to freight forwarding activities.
- Implemented cost-saving measures such as route optimization for shipments.
- Negotiated contracts with carriers for optimal pricing on transportation services.
- Resolved customer complaints related to shipping issues or delays in transit times.
- Organized distribution networks including trucking fleets, warehouses, and third-party vendors.
- Identified areas of improvement in existing logistics systems using data analytics tools.
- Collaborated with other departments to develop strategies that align with company objectives.
- Maintained relationships with key stakeholders like customers, suppliers, distributors.
- Reviewed invoices from carriers and vendors for accuracy prior to processing payments.
- Assigned tasks and projects to team members based on their experience level and skillset.
- Conducted training sessions for new employees on safety procedures within the warehouse.
- Managed day-to-day operations related to receiving, storing, packing, shipping merchandise.
- Worked collaboratively with customers and staff at various levels.
- Created and enforced policies and procedures for entire logistics team.
- Maintained high standards of internal and external customer service.
- Led and managed projects to support logistics efforts and plans.
- Implemented ordering, tracking and billing systems and associated processes to streamline procedures.
- Coordinated with freight forwarders to expedite international shipments.
- Developed strong rapport through effective client needs assessment and commitment to top satisfaction levels.
- Implemented on-the-job training activities to cross-train employees on various tasks.
General Manager
Tamure Resort
Rarotonga
01.1989 - 12.1990
- Ensured compliance with applicable local, state and federal regulations related to resort operations.
- Developed policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency of the resort.
- Managed daily operations of the resort, including budgeting, scheduling, hiring and training staff.
- Coordinated marketing efforts for the resort, such as promotions, advertising campaigns and special events.
- Conducted regular inspections of all areas of the resort to ensure safety standards were met.
- Supervised front desk staff in providing excellent customer service experiences for guests.
- Resolved guest complaints or escalated them as necessary to ensure satisfaction.
- Performed financial analysis on monthly reports to identify cost savings opportunities.
- Created annual budgets for each department within the resort based on projected revenue and expenses.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to obtain supplies and services at competitive prices.
- Provided leadership support to staff members by setting goals and expectations.
- Participated in professional development activities such as conferences or seminars.
- Delivered exceptional service to every customer through active engagement, effective listening and well-developed interpersonal skills.
- Responded to and resolved guest issues or complaints.
- Oversaw recruiting, interviews and new employee hiring.
- Coached staff on strategies to enhance performance and improve customer relations.
- Managed team of front desk agents, supervising personnel in issue resolution.
Costing Clerk
Avon Cosmetics
Auckland
01.1987 - 12.1988
- Verified invoices against purchase orders and delivery documents to ensure accuracy of pricing and quantity.
- Monitored inventory levels and determined reorder points when necessary.
- Prepared reports on cost analysis, budgeting and forecasting.
- Developed strong professional rapport with vendors and clients.
- Reviewed purchase orders, sales tickets and charge slips to compute fees or charges due.
Education
MBA -
University of The South Pacific
Cook Islands 04-2009
xxxx - American Hotel Management
Xxxx
Xxxxx09-1989
Xxxx - Xxxx
Manukau Technical Institute
New Zealand 03-1987
Skills
- Purchasing management
- Technically proficient in computer applications, including email, internet services, and all Microsoft Office Suite programs, with particular expertise in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint This proficiency enables the provision of effective support to a diverse clientele, encompassing professional entities as well as private individuals and community organisations
- Route Optimization
- Freight cost estimation
- Shipping Documentation
- Fleet Dispatch
Languages
English
First Language
Maori
Intermediate (B1)
B1
Affiliations
- Cook Islands Business and Professional Womens Association – Secretary and Committee members 10 years
- Pan Pacific Womens Association – Secretary/Treasurer and 10 years
- Board Te Uki Ou School – 1996 -2016 founder and Chair person ( lost count how many years )
- Takuvaine Sports Club – Club Captain / Netball president 10 years
- Independent candidate – 2005 Takuvaine Constituency
Accomplishments
- Board Directorships - Bank of the Cook Islands – 2005-2020, Te Aponga Uira – 2019 – Present, Te Ipukarea Society – TIS Board member over 10 years
Timeline
Business and Logistics Manager
Cook Islands General Transport Ltd
01.1992 - Current
General Manager
Tamure Resort
01.1989 - 12.1990
Costing Clerk
Avon Cosmetics
01.1987 - 12.1988
MBA -
University of The South Pacific
xxxx - American Hotel Management
Xxxx
Xxxx - Xxxx
Manukau Technical Institute
Similar Profiles
Helen MaungaHelen Maunga
Policy Advisor at Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health Cook IslandsPolicy Advisor at Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health Cook Islands
ROSE JOSEFAROSE JOSEFA
Radiographer at Cook Islands Ministry Of HealthRadiographer at Cook Islands Ministry Of Health
Anastasia KaratiAnastasia Karati
Branch Network Lead Operation Officer at Bank of the Cook IslandsBranch Network Lead Operation Officer at Bank of the Cook Islands
Jamie GottyJamie Gotty
Reservations/ Accounts at Sunset ResortReservations/ Accounts at Sunset Resort
Colette ClarkeColette Clarke
Administration and Management at T's Tours AitutakiAdministration and Management at T's Tours Aitutaki