Aren Bakalbashian
@arenbakalbashian
HR professional transitioning from hospitality management with strong recruitment and coaching focus.
What I'm looking for
I am an HR-focused professional transitioning from over 10 years in hospitality management into human resources and talent acquisition. I hold an MBA from European University Cyprus and a Bachelor's in Psychology from the University of Nicosia, which I apply to employee relations and performance management.
Throughout my managerial roles, I led teams, implemented operational processes, and supported recruitment efforts—screening candidates and conducting initial interviews to build effective teams. I enforced compliance with standards such as HACCP and Cyprus/EU hygiene regulations while optimizing operations and inventory control.
I bring practical coaching and leadership experience through volunteer work with refugees and as a Scout Leader, and I am pursuing a professional coaching certification (expected 2026) to deepen my ability to develop employees and leaders. I use psychological insight to de-escalate conflicts and improve engagement.
I am eager to join a forward-thinking company in Cyprus or remotely where I can contribute to talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational growth while continuing my professional coaching development.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Assistant Manager
Ginger N Co
Jan 2025 - Present (1 year)
Selected for the opening team and established operational processes; managed daily operations, staff scheduling, and performance oversight while improving employee engagement and supporting recruitment efforts.
Store Manager
Sushila
Jan 2023 - Dec 2024 (1 year 11 months)
Managed store operations including inventory control and maintenance, and resolved customer and employee complaints using active listening and conflict-resolution techniques to improve trust and retention.
Manager
Wagamama
Jan 2021 - Dec 2023 (2 years 11 months)
Ensured compliance with franchise procedures and HACCP/EU hygiene regulations, conducted staff training and audits to maintain standards and mitigate operational risk.
Supervisor
Casper and Gambini's
Supervised operations during studies, supporting staff and contributing to cost control and daily service quality.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
European University Cyprus
Master of Business Administration, Business Administration
2021 - 2024
Completed a Master of Business Administration program focused on management and organizational leadership from 2021 to 2024.
University of Nicosia
Bachelor of Psychology, Psychology
2017 - 2020
Activities and societies: Member, Media Group (University Club)
Earned a Bachelor of Psychology with involvement in the university media group during studies.
A.G.B.U. Schools
High School Diploma, Life Sciences (High School emphasis)
Activities and societies: Leader, Debate Club; Member, Drama Team and Dance Team
Graduated high school with an emphasis in Life Sciences and participated in debate, drama, and dance activities.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
Skills
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