Randi Johnson Thraves

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.

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

Bachelor's in Business Marketing – University of Texas, Arlington

High School Diploma – Arlington High School

Diploma in Life Coaching – Melbourne, Australia