James Barcelona
New Orleans
Summary
Achievements include expanding customer base and bringing in new sales revenue. Excellent customer service, research and conflict resolution skills.
Placement professional prepared to excel in connecting clients with new and exciting products. Known for strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results, adapting seamlessly to changing needs. Skilled in product assessment, client communication, and strategic placement. Dependable and flexible, ensuring successful matches and fostering long-term relationships.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Product Placement Specialist/Reset Captain
Crescent Crown Distributing LLC.
New Orleans, LA
09.2025 - Current
- Developed and implemented placement strategies to optimize workforce alignment with client needs.
- Collaborated with Design management team to execute proper pog requirements specifically designed for the client.
- Managed inventory of retail products, contributing to increased sales revenue for the company
- Adhered to company policies and regulations, maintaining updated knowledge on best practices within the Beverage industry.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing consistent and knowledgeable support for retail products and services.
- Developed and implemented merchandise display strategies to enhance product visibility and customer engagement.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to execute promotional events and seasonal merchandising plans.
Market Area Representative
Jacent Strategic Merchandising
Houma
10.2021 - 08.2025
- Boosted sales performance through effective territory management and strategic planning.
- Managed key accounts to ensure client retention and strengthen business partnerships.
- Managed key accounts to retain clients and reinforce business partnerships through proactive engagement.
- Increased customer base by consistently delivering excellent service and fostering strong relationships with clients.
- Streamlined internal processes by identifying improvement areas and implementing best practices, improving operational efficiency.
- Acted as the primary point of contact for customers within the assigned territory, resolving inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
Production Manager
Fresh Food Factor
New Orleans, LA
11.2020 - 10.2021
- Enhanced production efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing lean manufacturing techniques.
- Optimized resource allocation and inventory management, reducing waste and material costs while maintaining quality standards.
- Increased overall productivity by identifying bottlenecks in the production process and proposing effective solutions.
- Developed a comprehensive training program for new hires, resulting in higher employee retention rates and faster integration into the team.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products according to customer requirements.
- Conducted root cause analysis on production issues, devising corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Negotiated with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall procurement costs without sacrificing quality.
- Managed multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timely completion and meeting budget constraints.
- Implemented preventive maintenance programs for equipment, extending their lifespan and minimizing downtime due to malfunctions.
- Spearheaded process improvements, reducing cycle times and increasing output without additional manpower or equipment investment.
- Oversaw quality control efforts, maintaining strict adherence to industry standards and regulatory requirements while achieving high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Coordinated with sales and marketing to align production schedules with demand forecasts, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Developed strong relationships with key stakeholders, resulting in better collaboration and alignment on project objectives.
- Resolved issues quickly to maintain productivity goals.
Chef De Cuisine
Marriott
New Orleans, LA
03.2007 - 10.2020
- Enhanced guest satisfaction by creating innovative and visually appealing dishes using fresh, local ingredients.
- Streamlined kitchen operations for increased efficiency by implementing effective inventory and staff management systems.
- Developed seasonal menus with a focus on sustainability and supporting local farmers, resulting in rave reviews from guests and critics alike.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service and exceptional dining experiences for all customers.
- Maintained high levels of sanitation and cleanliness, adhering to strict health code regulations and ensuring a safe working environment.
- Mentored junior chefs in culinary techniques, fostering their growth and development within the team.
- Increased overall food quality by sourcing premium ingredients from trusted suppliers while managing cost controls effectively.
- Reduced food waste through careful menu planning, portion control, and regular monitoring of product expiration dates.
- Optimized kitchen workflow by delegating tasks according to individual strengths, resulting in faster ticket times during peak hours.
- Regularly reviewed customer feedback to identify areas for improvement or adjustments to menu offerings based on preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Conducted daily pre-shift meetings with kitchen staff to communicate goals, updates, and expectations for each shift effectively.
Executive Chef
Peerless Steak And Seafood
Johnson City, TN
09.2005 - 03.2007
- Increased customer satisfaction by creating innovative and diverse menus tailored to various dietary needs.
- Managed kitchen staff for efficient food production, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality dishes.
- Streamlined kitchen operations with effective inventory management and cost controls.
- Maintained a safe and sanitary work environment, adhering to health department standards and regulations.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors, negotiating competitive prices on ingredients and supplies.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless dining experiences for guests.
- Created visually appealing plate presentations, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
- Maximized profitability by effectively managing food costs through portion control and minimizing waste.
- Expanded catering services through strategic marketing efforts, increasing event bookings and revenue streams.
- Developed custom menus for clients with specific dietary restrictions or preferences, ensuring their utmost satisfaction during their dining experience.
- Participated in community outreach events such as charity dinners or fundraisers to give back to the local community while promoting brand awareness.
- Developed menus, controlled food costs and oversaw quality, sanitation, and safety processes.
- Obtained fresh, local ingredients to improve dish flavors and limit grocery costs.
Education
Ged - Required Studies
Johnson City Adult Education
Johnson City, TN02-2012
Skills
- Product Placement Strategy
- Retail Merchandising
- Market analysis
- Competitor Analysis
- Promotional Planning
- Performance Tracking
- Data Interpretation
- Data-driven decision making
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Decision making
- Account management
- Client retention
- Interpersonal skills
- Team collaboration
- Self-motivated work ethic
- Communication skills
- Data-driven decision making
Timeline
Product Placement Specialist/Reset Captain
Crescent Crown Distributing LLC.
09.2025 - Current
Market Area Representative
Jacent Strategic Merchandising
10.2021 - 08.2025
Production Manager
Fresh Food Factor
11.2020 - 10.2021
Chef De Cuisine
Marriott
03.2007 - 10.2020
Executive Chef
Peerless Steak And Seafood
09.2005 - 03.2007
Ged - Required Studies
Johnson City Adult Education