Experience

Resume

Organized and dependable operations professional with experience in logistics coordination, inventory management, and administrative support. Recognized for attention to detail, strong follow through, and the ability to adapt quickly in dynamic environments. Combines a results-focused work ethic with a positive, people-centered approach that supports both team success and customer satisfaction.

Work Experience

Logistics & Operations Manager

Waterfall Catering · Pittsburgh, PA

2020–Present
  • Help with FOH catering & delivery preparations.
  • Assist at events as well as take catering deliveries as needed.
  • Implemented an employee time card app system to streamline timesheets, resulting in easier payroll management.
  • Handled ordering and inventory management for FOH supplies, including beverages, pantry items and disposables.
  • Supported menu planning and created visually appealing weekly and monthly cafeteria menus, distributed via email.
  • Created comprehensive FOH standard operating procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency.
  • Built new employee packet and training materials.
  • Create promotional design pieces and assist with the website.

Owner / Photographer

Melissa Distel Photography · Pittsburgh, PA

2007–2020
  • Responsible for all the basic day-to-day duties of a brick & mortar Photography Studio.
  • Captured high-quality images for various clients, including weddings, events, and portraits.
  • Implemented effective marketing strategies to attract new clients and expand business opportunities.
  • Demonstrated strong attention to detail in capturing precise moments and emotions.
  • Edited photos using industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by promptly delivering edited photos within agreed-upon timelines.
  • Developed creative concepts for themed photoshoots based on client preferences or project requirements.
  • Updated website layout and managed the online ordering program to improve customer interaction and system reliability.
  • Managed and executed targeted social media strategies, resulting in increased follower growth and audience engagement.

Wholesale Customer Experience Manager

Cherry Valley Organics · Burgettstown, PA

2022–2023
  • Keep correspondence with wholesale accounts.
  • Resolved customer inquiries, complaints, and issues in a timely and professional manner.
  • Maintained a high level of product knowledge to assist customers with their needs effectively.
  • Assisted with the design and implementation of social media campaigns.
  • Updated and streamlined event calendar for optimal coordination of activities and resources.
  • Assisted in fulfilling design needs, including graphics and promotional material.
  • Stocked and tracked product inventory at consignment locations; recorded and reported sales activity.

District Manager

Cherry Hill Programs

Feb–May 2021
  • Temporary seasonal position as district manager, managing 7 malls.
  • Facilitated consistent communication between corporate headquarters and mall directors to support operational alignment and efficiency.
  • Recruited, interviewed, and hired qualified staff to support business needs and growth.
  • Oversaw scheduling and payroll management across multiple locations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
  • Ensured all locations adhered to company policies and COVID-19 safety protocols, promoting a safe and compliant work environment.

Community Involvement

Community Engagement & Events

Brookline Together · Pittsburgh, PA

2018–Aug 2025
  • Held a volunteer board position as Business & Community Engagement chair.
  • Collaborated with community members, stakeholders, and organizations to identify common goals and build partnerships.
  • Planned and executed multiple successful community events, attracting anywhere from 100–3,000 attendees per event.
  • Coordinated with volunteers to execute annual membership drive.
  • Implemented an online program for managing memberships, event vendors and sponsors.
  • Plan, develop and maintain established community and fundraising events, creating new events as the community needs change and develop.

Community Events Volunteer

Brookline Chamber · Pittsburgh, PA

2010–2018 (became Brookline Together in 2018)
  • Worked with committee members to plan, promote and execute established and new community events.

President & Treasurer (Volunteer Board)

Brookline PTA · Pittsburgh, PA

2017–2021
  • Planned, promoted, and executed meetings, events, and fundraisers to support school programs and community engagement.
  • Developed and managed the annual budget, prepared monthly financial reports, and compiled a comprehensive year-end summary.
  • Oversaw and maintained PTA social media channels and website to enhance communication and visibility.
  • Supervised sub-committees, providing guidance and ensuring alignment with organizational goals and timelines.

Education

Associate of Specialized Technology, Photography

Art Institute of Pittsburgh

2000–2002

Online Certificates

Initiating and Planning Projects

UCI, Irvine

Social Media Marketing: Strategy and Optimization

LinkedIn

Leading and Motivating People with Different Personalities

LinkedIn

Skills

Hard Skills

PhotographyLeadershipOrganizationTime managementAbility to work and multi-task in a fast paced environmentVerbal & Written CommunicationInterpersonal skillsSelf MotivatedProblem SolvingCustomer ServiceDesignAdaptabilityAccountability

Program Knowledge

Adobe PhotoshopAirtableMicrosoft 365Google Drive, Docs, SheetsHootsuiteFacebook BusinessZoomGoogle MeetMicrosoft TeamsJotformsShopify

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