Michael A. Polani
Natural Grocers
Prescott
34
years of professional experience
Versatile Operations Professional experienced in leading departments and managing inventory to enhance customer satisfaction. Achieved efficient workflows and consistent service through strong decision-making and team leadership. Focused on driving business growth and delivering positive shopping experiences.
Work History
Department Manager
6 Years 1 Month- Led department operations, ensuring accurate merchandising, inventory control, and daily floor readiness.
- Coordinated ordering, receiving, and stocking to ensure optimal product availability.
- Monitored shrink, spoilage, and rotation practices to support inventory accuracy.
- Trained team members on store procedures, customer service standards, and product knowledge to enhance team competency.
- Resolved customer concerns to foster positive shopping experiences across the department.
- Maintained compliance with food safety, sanitation, and company quality standards.
Health Educator
2 Years 1 Month- Delivered evidence-based health guidance on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and prevention.
- Assessed participant health goals to guide personalized behavior change plans.
- Developed wellness education sessions tailored to client needs and learning styles.
- Coordinated community outreach activities to expand program participation and awareness.
- Developed and implemented health education strategies to reach target audiences.
- Raised awareness of public health issues through organizing workshops, seminars, and presentations.
- Developed and implemented health education programs to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent chronic diseases.
Assistant Store Manager
7 Years 9 Months- Supervised daily store operations, ensuring smooth customer service and team coverage.
- Resolved customer concerns promptly, protecting satisfaction and store reputation.
- Trained associates on product knowledge, POS procedures, and service standards.
- Monitored inventory levels, replenishment needs, and stock organization across departments.
- Enhanced store appearance for increased sales by maintaining cleanliness and implementing strategic merchandise displays.
- Assisted the Store Manager in analyzing sales data to identify trends and make informed decisions for improving overall store performance.
- Developed a loyal customer base through personalized interactions, increasing repeat business in-store visits.
- Maintained positive customer relationships by responding quickly to customer service inquiries.
- Observed each employee's individual strengths and initiated a mentoring program to improve areas of weakness.
Countertop Associate
2 Years 2 Months- Assisted customers selecting countertop materials, finishes, and edge profiles for project requirements.
- Explained product specifications, care instructions, and installation considerations to support confident purchases.
- Prepared accurate quotes and purchase orders using sales and inventory systems.
- Coordinated sample requests, product availability, and order status updates with customers.
- Followed up on open orders to confirm timelines, changes, and delivery readiness.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Kitchen and Bath Designer
11 Months- Designed kitchen and bath layouts aligned with client needs, space constraints, and product specifications.
- Prepared detailed cabinetry and fixture drawings using 20/20 CAD software for accurate project execution.
- Prepared detailed cabinetry and fixture drawings using CAD software for accurate project execution.
- Conducted site measurements to verify dimensions, confirm installation requirements, and reduce design errors.
- Reviewed plans for code compliance, functionality, and manufacturability before final release.
- Generated quotes and specifications for cabinetry, countertops, and bath components based on project scope.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalized kitchen and bath design solutions.
- Optimized use of space in kitchen and bath designs by incorporating creative storage solutions.
- Delivered functional yet aesthetically pleasing designs by balancing client preferences with practical considerations such as budget constraints or architectural limitations.
- Collaborated with clients to select the perfect materials, finishes, and fixtures for their dream spaces.
- Utilized 3D rendering software to create realistic visualizations of proposed designs, aiding in client decision-making processes.
- Built strong relationships with vendors, ensuring high-quality products at competitive prices.
Kitchen and Bath Designer
5 Years 9 Months- Prepared detailed cabinetry and fixture drawings using CAD software for accurate project execution.
- Conducted site measurements to verify dimensions, confirm installation requirements, and reduce design errors.
- Coordinated with contractors, vendors, and installers to resolve design issues and maintain project timelines.
- Streamlined design revisions and documentation to improve accuracy across multiple active projects.
- Presented design proposals to clients to establish clear project expectations and goals.
- Created professional presentations using [Software] to creatively communicate design intent and direction.
- Assisted clients with budget considerations and made recommendations for furniture, wall hangings and [Type] items.
- Designed kitchen and bath layouts aligned with client needs, space constraints, and product specifications.
Sales Associate
1 Year 10 Months- Built repeat business by responding promptly to inquiries and resolving customer concerns professionally.
- Processed transactions, returns, and payment details while maintaining organized sales records.
- Supported showroom organization by restocking samples, pricing displays, and maintaining clean merchandising areas.
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
- Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
- Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
Warehouse Manager
6 Years 10 Months- Directed receiving, storage, and shipping workflows for cabinet materials and finished goods
- Supervised material staging, picking, and order fulfillment for production schedules
- Coordinated inventory control and cycle counts to maintain accurate stock levels
- Implemented warehouse procedures to improve workflow consistency and space utilization
- Maintained a safe work environment by enforcing strict adherence to OSHA guidelines and company policies.
- Managed relationships with external partners such as suppliers, ensuring timely deliveries while minimizing disruptions in supply chain operations.
- Unloaded trucks by hand and with forklift.
- Made home and business deliveries of cabinets.
- Conducted the tearout and removal of old kitchens and bathrooms.
- Apprentice to the owner and contractor on jobsites.
Education
Kitchen And Bath Certification - Kitchen And Bath Design
Certified Healing Facilitator - Health and Wellness
Reiki Master Certification - Health and Wellness
High School Diploma
Skills
Customer relations
Team leadership
Team management
Team oversight
Inventory management
Customer engagement
Strategic decision-making
Client engagement
Timeline
Department Manager
Natural Grocers
09.2020 - CurrentRead More
Health Educator
Harmonic Wellness
08.2018 - 09.2020Read More
Assistant Store Manager
Health Unlimited
10.2011 - 07.2019Read More
Countertop Associate
Countertop Supply (Jeff Smith)
01.2008 - 03.2010Read More
Kitchen and Bath Designer
William Jackson Inc.
03.2007 - 02.2008Read More
Kitchen and Bath Designer
Lowes Home Improvement Stores
03.2002 - 12.2007Read More
Sales Associate
Expo Design Center
11.2000 - 09.2002Read More
Warehouse Manager
Quesco Cabinets
05.1993 - 03.2000Read More
NKBA (National Kitchen And Bath Association)
Kitchen And Bath Certification from Kitchen And Bath Design
Read More
Star Magic Healing
Certified Healing Facilitator from Health and Wellness
Read More
Usui Reiki Master
Reiki Master Certification from Health and Wellness
Read More
Woodside High School
High School Diploma
Read More