Randi Johnson Thraves
Versatile professional with dual expertise in corporate flight attending and business strategy consulting, specializing in systems optimization and high-stakes operations.
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About
Business and marketing professional with 15+ years of experience translating market insight, operational data, and customer behavior into actionable business strategy across marketing, hospitality, aviation support, and complex, high-growth environments in the U.S. and Australia. Proven ability to analyze performance, optimize workflows, support go-to-market strategy, and drive measurable improvements in growth, efficiency, and customer experience. Founder of award-winning consumer brands and nationally recognized tourism events, bringing real-world P&L ownership, cross-functional collaboration, and executive-level communication.
Known for clarity, adaptability, and turning complex challenges into data-informed decisions that improve outcomes.
Experience
Flight Operations & VIP Service Support at DFW (2025-01 – Present)
Supported flight operations by coordinating passenger requirements, cabin readiness, and service execution in compliance with safety and operational standards.
- Customize cabin setup, service flow, and amenities based on client expectations
- Conduct pre-flight cabin safety checks and equipment inspections
- Communicate closely with pilots, dispatch, and ground staff regarding passenger needs and timing
- Adapt service and cabin flow based on flight duration, delays, or operational changes
Co-Founder & Business Strategy Director at Smokin' Hot 'n Saucy BBQ (2016-01 – 2024-12)
Co-founded and scaled a start-up into a multimillion-dollar brand generating over $2 million annually.
- Led workforce planning and operational strategy for a 30+ person team, overseeing recruitment, scheduling, training, compliance, and customer experience
- Created an award-winning retail line: Australia Sauce of the Year (2021) and Australia Rub of the Year (2023)
- Increased customer volume by 250% and repeat patronage by 40% YOY
- Implemented systems that reduced onboarding time by 30% and improved margins by 20%
- Managed hundreds of high-capacity events (50–10,000+ attendees)
- Awards & Recognition: Best BBQ in Newcastle, NSW; Australia Sauce of the Year (2021); Australia Rub of the Year (2022)
Founder & Director at Smoke in Broke BBQ Festival (2016-01 – 2024-12)
Created a tourism event in a town of 300 residents, scaling it to 10,000+ attendees annually.
- Won Australia's Event of the Year
- Generated significant economic impact for the Hunter Valley region
- Raised thousands for community groups including over $10,000 for Broke Public School
- Oversaw budgets, logistics, safety, marketing, vendor relations, and government coordination
Aviation Operations Support at Paradigm Air (2006-01 – 2008-12)
Supported communication and logistics for athletes, business travelers, and charter clients.
- Coordinated manifests, pre-flight communication, and updates across operations and crew
- Gained insight into business traveler needs and aviation communication workflows
- Ensured accurate, timely communication for alignment across departments
IT Trainer & Account Executive at Clear Channel Outdoor (2003-01 – 2007-12)
Created comprehensive training materials, organized training sessions, crafted communication scripts, and produced onboarding documentation.
- Conveyed technical information in an accessible manner tailored for diverse teams
- Enhanced stakeholder engagement by aligning communication tone and executing effective delivery strategies
Education
Bachelor's in Business Marketing – University of Texas, Arlington
High School Diploma – Arlington High School
Diploma in Life Coaching – Melbourne, Australia
