Lee-Jay Barnes

Newport-based commercial and operational leader with experience turning proposals into delivered services, coordinating partners, managing budgets and leading work across multiple locations. Built an independent hospitality business from concept to operation; secured a government-funded education project through AELP; and managed a £2m-plus multi-site operation at Celtic Manor Resort. Brings local knowledge, sound financial judgement and practical experience of stakeholder engagement, procurement, performance reporting and overcoming delivery obstacles.

Seeking to apply these transferable strengths to Newport's city centre placemaking programme.

Founder and Director at Farina Pizzeria & Pantry (2022-01 – Present)

Planned and launched a local hospitality business, coordinating premises, equipment, suppliers, brand, product development and customer-facing operations.

• Manage budgets, cash flow, procurement, food costs, pricing and operational decisions while balancing immediate issues with longer-term business needs.
• Build relationships with local customers and suppliers; use sales trends and feedback to adjust services, promotions and delivery priorities.
• Lead day-to-day standards, compliance, team deployment and problem solving in a live trading environment.

Management Consultant at HOI (2019-01 – 2020-12)

Advised clients on commercial planning, market positioning, sales and operational improvement; supported projects from concept through negotiation and implementation.

• Built relationships with clients and external stakeholders and translated growth opportunities into practical actions.

Business Development Director at AELP (2018-01 – 2019-12)

Secured the government-funded Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge project and pursued other public-sector opportunities through bid and procurement processes.

• Developed partnerships with employers, education providers and sector networks; presented propositions to senior stakeholders.
• Led commercial, digital and project-management activity and built an opportunity pipeline of approximately £1.2m from a standing start.

Corporate Sales Manager at Jaguar Land Rover (2013-01 – 2018-12)

Managed major corporate accounts across Wales and the M4 corridor, negotiated tailored arrangements and coordinated partner activity.

• Helped secure title sponsorship with Cardiff Blues and delivered corporate events and customer experience initiatives.
• Monitored budgets and performance against KPIs; led delivery of the Customer First programme.

Head of Retail Operations and Head PGA Professional at Celtic Manor Resort (1997-01 – 2012-12)

Led operations across four locations with P&L responsibility exceeding £2m, controlling budgets, stock, procurement and supplier relationships.

• Led approximately 30 team members, set objectives and KPIs, and reviewed management information to guide decisions and maintain service standards.
• Reduced cost of sale from 138% to 58% through purchasing, stock management and cost control.
• Contributed to senior management discussions on resort development, marketing, customer experience and future leisure activity.

Foundation Degree in PGA Professional Qualification – PGA of Great Britain & Ireland with Birmingham University (2002-01)