Kat Graham-Phillips

Award-winning communications, marketing, customer experience, and operations leader with more than 20 years of experience strengthening organizations, developing high-performing teams, and building trusted relationships across government, hospitality, real estate, and business operations. Recognized for translating complex challenges into clear communication, meaningful relationships, and measurable results while leading with integrity, empathy, and accountability. Trusted to navigate change, coach future leaders, strengthen organizational culture, and deliver exceptional experiences for customers, employees, and stakeholders.

Driven by the belief that exceptional organizations are built by investing in people first and creating communication that inspires confidence, collaboration, and lasting impact.

Customer Service Representative III at Sarasota County Government

Emergency Management & Communications Support Built trust between local government and the community by delivering strategic communication, collaborative problem-solving, and exceptional public service.

• Recognized as Sarasota County Government's #1 Customer Service Representative for exceptional communication, professionalism, and service excellence.
• Helped Sarasota County achieve a Top 3 statewide ranking in resident satisfaction.
• Partnered across County departments, leadership teams, and community stakeholders to research and resolve highly complex issues requiring diplomacy, sound judgment, and strategic communication.
• Supported Emergency Management communications during emergency operations, delivering accurate, timely information while maintaining public trust.
• Developed educational resources and communication strategies that improved public understanding of County programs, services, and processes

General Manager | Director of Sales & Marketing at Chaz 51 Steakhouse

Transformed restaurant operations by building a culture of accountability, exceptional customer service, and continuous improvement, contributing to record sales, record profitability, and exceptional employee retention.

• Directed daily operations for a high-volume restaurant while leading and developing a team of 50+ employees.
• Redesigned operational processes that improved efficiency, elevated the guest experience, and contributed to record business performance.
• Directed all aspects of talent management, including recruiting, hiring, coaching, payroll, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and vendor relations.
• Developed and executed marketing initiatives that increased community engagement, brand awareness, and revenue growth.
• Developed future leaders through mentorship, accountability, and continuous professional development, creating a coaching-focused culture that improved employee retention, accountability, and customer satisfaction.
• Built lasting relationships with guests, employees, and community partners through authentic leadership, exceptional service, and consistent follow-through.

Florida Real Estate Broker Associate / Agent Education & Mentorship at Accardi & Associates Real Estate

Earned a reputation as a trusted advisor by building lasting client relationships, navigating complex negotiations, and delivering exceptional customer experiences, resulting in five consecutive years as the company's #1 Realtor.

• Ranked as the company's #1 Realtor for five consecutive years through relationship-based sales, client advocacy, and consistent results.
• Managed residential real estate transactions from initial consultation through closing while coordinating lenders, attorneys, inspectors, contractors, and title professionals.
• Educated buyers and sellers throughout every stage of the transaction, simplifying complex processes and building confidence through clear communication.
• Developed a referral-driven business by consistently exceeding client expectations and fostering long-term relationships built on trust.
• Specialized in FHA, VA, USDA, conventional, and investment property transactions while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Resolved complex client concerns with professionalism, diplomacy, and a solutions-focused approach, earning repeat business and referrals.

Customer Service Director at Bill Heard Chevrolet

Customer Relations Manager at General Motors

General Manager at Club 41

Bar Manager at Wally's Pour House

Overnight Team Lead at Walmart

Consistently selected for leadership roles based on the ability to build high-performing teams, improve operations, strengthen customer relationships, and develop future leaders across multiple industries.

• Led customer service, operations, sales, and team development across automotive, retail, and hospitality organizations.
• Managed teams of up to 50+ employees while improving accountability, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Designed and implemented operational improvements that increased productivity, strengthened employee performance, and enhanced the customer experience.
• Recognized throughout multiple organizations as a trusted leader, mentor, and top-performing manager.

Diploma – Plant City High School

Business Administration – Bradenton Technical College

Real Estate Brokers license - Ed Klopfer School Of Real Estate