Marlee Palka

General Manager with over ten years of experience leading diverse teams to achieve operational excellence and customer satisfaction seeking a role in Raleigh, North Carolina. Demonstrates a visionary approach to process implementation, consistently driving measurable improvements in sales and team performance. Passionate about fostering a collaborative work culture and leveraging strategic planning and data analytics to enhance organizational growth and success.

General Manager at Flower Child (2025-12 – Present)

• Train and develop Leadership team of 5 Managers and 6 Leads, boosting policy adherence and quality of operations.
• Oversee financial operations and areas of opportunity regarding Cash Control and P&L, ensuring operating procedures are in place that allow for daily success.
• Improved guest experience and retention with a focus on hospitality that goes above and beyond and food quality. Saw ratings increase from a 3.4 to 3.9 in less than 2 months.

Regional Manager at The People's Market, Permanently Closed (2024-09 – 2025-11)

• Streamlined retail and beverage program, cutting costs by $14,000 annually per location.
• Improved customer reviews from a 2 Star average to 4.5 Star average by retraining customer service expectations and communication skills with front of house staff.
• Trained 15 leaders on leadership styles, management skills, professional communication, coaching and conflict resolution.
• Improved overall environment and inspired crew which contributed to a more engaged workforce.

General Manager at The Loyalist Market (2023-08 – 2024-10)

• Created processes and procedures that improved employee engagement and accuracy by 10%.
• Improved morale, critical thinking and empowerment by creating a leadership program allowing for employee growth.
• Coordinated special events, increasing revenue by $25,000.
• Developed training programs for 30+ staff improving product knowledge and sales skills to increase overall revenue and repeat customers.

General Manager at Crumbl Concord (2021-12 – 2023-09)

• Boosted efficiency by 15% in 6 months by implementing training and development processes, 1on1s, and coaching.
• Operated as the most profitable store in the region.
• Fostered a positive work environment, promoting team collaboration and morale, which resulted in improved employee retention rates.
• Trained 10 individuals in leadership and management with a strong focus on the power of communication, goal setting, time management and efficiency.

Associate's in Arts – Central Piedmont Community College

Business Management – Colorado State University

Business Consulting – International Association of Professions