Kristen Farley

High-performing retail leader with 10+ years of progressive management experience within large-scale retail environments. Proven success leading multi-location operations, driving revenue growth, and building strong sales and service cultures aligned with organizational goals. Expert in coaching teams, analyzing performance data, and executing operational strategies that improve customer experience, compliance, and profitability.

Manager, Retail at AAA Club Alliance, Inc. (2020-03 – Present)

• Directed retail operations, aligning store performance with district scorecard targets for revenue and sales growth, and customer service excellence
• Coached, mentored, and developed associates to consistently achieve sales goals and strengthen cross-selling capabilities
• Led full-cycle talent management, including interviewing, onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance evaluations
• Ensured strict adherence to internal audit standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements
• Analyzed financial and operational metrics to identify trends, address variances, and drive continuous performance improvement
• Resolved escalated member issues promptly, reinforcing a high standard of member service and satisfaction
• Top Performer for 3 consecutive years for sales growth and exceeding key performance initiatives
• Developed associates who were promoted internally and into leadership roles
• Maintained high retention through strong team culture and engagement
• Promoted to oversee dual locations in 2023

Store Leader at Kroger (2017-01 – 2020-02)

• Directed end-to-end store operations, overseeing sales performance, merchandising, inventory control, and customer experience for high-volume retail locations
• Led, coached, and developed teams of 100+ associates and department managers, resulting in internal promotions and stronger bench strength
• Drove consistent sales growth and met performance targets through strategic planning, execution, and team accountability
• Implemented operational excellence initiatives that improved efficiency, reduced shrink, and ensured compliance with company standards and safety regulations
• Analyzed financial and operational metrics (P&L, labor, shrink, sales trends) to identify opportunities and drive profitability
• Championed a customer-first culture, increasing satisfaction scores and loyalty through service training and real-time coaching
• Partnered with district leadership to execute company initiatives, promotional strategies, and seasonal merchandising plans
• Managed labor planning, scheduling, and payroll to align with business needs while optimizing productivity
• Led hiring, onboarding, and performance management, including coaching conversations, succession planning, and talent development
• Responded to and resolved complex customer and operational issues with professionalism and urgency

Assistant Store Manager at Kroger (2014-07 – 2016-12)

• Supported the Store Leader in overseeing daily store operations, ensuring execution of sales, service, and operational goals
• Supervised and coached department managers and associates, driving accountability, performance improvement, and team engagement
• Assisted in achieving and exceeding sales targets through effective merchandising, inventory management, and promotional execution
• Ensured compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements, maintaining a safe and efficient work environment
• Played a key role in hiring, onboarding, and training new associates, contributing to strong team development and retention
• Led floor operations during peak business hours, resolving customer concerns and ensuring a high-quality shopping experience
• Partnered with the Store Leader to implement company initiatives, seasonal plans, and operational improvements
• Conducted routine audits and inspections to maintain merchandising standards, product quality, safety, and store cleanliness

Accountant at J&R Manufacturing, Inc. (2008-03 – 2014-06)

• Managed full-cycle accounts receivable, including invoicing, payment processing, collections, and account reconciliation to maintain healthy cash flow
• Performed detailed cost accounting, analyzing labor, materials, and overhead to determine job profitability and support pricing decisions
• Oversaw inventory accounting and control, tracking raw materials and finished goods, reconciling discrepancies, and improving accuracy of stock levels
• Prepared financial documents and reports required for business tax returns, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local requirements
• Assisted with payroll processing for 20+ employees, ensuring accuracy in time sheets and wages
• Supported month-end and year-end close processes, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial reporting
• Provided order-related customer service, communicating with clients regarding billing, pricing, and order status while resolving discrepancies professionally
• Maintained and improved accounting systems and processes to increase efficiency, accuracy, and reporting capabilities

Bachelor of Business Administration in Management, Accounting, Finance – Concord University