Alford Charles

Customer-focused professional with more than 15 years of experience across retail, sales, hospitality and leisure. Brings five years of sports-centre reception experience, including member support, bookings and front-desk administration, alongside current strengths in consultative selling, account contact and complaint resolution. Currently completing Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer qualifications, with a clear goal of building a career in a welcoming, service-led gym environment.

Customer Service and Sales Assistant - Machine Mart - Edmonton, London

(2025-02)

• Advise customers on tools and equipment, asking clear questions to recommend suitable products and accessories.
• Handle in-store, telephone and email enquiries, payments, refunds and account queries accurately and professionally.
• Complete approximately 50 outbound calls each week to reconnect with lapsed account customers, identify needs and support repeat business.
• Resolve complaints calmly, maintain brand and merchandising standards, and contribute to a dependable team service.

Reception and Customer Service Assistant - Coventry University Sports and Recreation Centre - Coventry

(2019-02 - 2023-10)

• Welcomed students, staff, members and visitors, creating a friendly and professional first impression at a busy sports facility.
• Managed activity bookings, membership enquiries, telephone calls, emails, payments and front-desk administration.
• Explained facilities and services clearly, responded to member concerns and worked with colleagues to resolve issues promptly.
• Supported the safe, organised daily operation of the reception area and maintained accurate customer records.

Retail Assistant - Wickes - Coventry

(2015 - 2018)

• Helped customers select suitable products, supported sales and delivered practical, approachable service.
• Operated tills, processed payments and refunds, replenished stock and maintained clear, attractive displays.

Guest Service and Reception Team Member - Premier Inn - Coventry

(2013-12 - 2015)

• Managed guest arrivals and departures, bookings, payments, calls and enquiries in a busy hospitality setting.
• Handled problems with empathy and discretion while maintaining a warm, efficient front-of-house service.

Retail Sales Assistant - TM Lewin - London

(2010 - 2013)

• Delivered personalised menswear service, built rapport and supported customers with product selection and fit.
• Contributed to sales performance through attentive service, product knowledge and confident recommendations.

Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer - PT Academy UK

Fine Art, Grade C; Painting and Decorating, Pass - Hackney Community College

English, Grade B; Mathematics, Grade C; Science, Grade C - Secondary education