Garth Barends
@garthbarends
Experienced Leader in Financial Services, Sales, and Operations, driving growth and efficiency.
What I'm looking for
I am a results-driven leader with over 15 years of experience across Financial Services, Automotive Sales, and Operational Efficiency. Throughout my career, I have consistently turned challenges into opportunities, specializing in Customer Retention, Financial Management, Process Optimization, and Compliance.
In my recent role as Lead Team Manager at Smart Restore, I led a team of technicians to achieve a 98% on-time project completion rate, while implementing process improvements that increased operational efficiency by 20%. My tenure at Healthcare & Mobility Africa saw an 18% sales increase through effective product promotion and customer relationship management.
I have a proven track record in managing sensitive financial data, optimizing business funds, and ensuring compliance with procurement policies. My technical proficiency spans SAP, SIEBEL, SAGE, and Microsoft Office, empowering me to tackle complex problems with efficiency.
I am passionate about continuous learning and self-improvement, always staying updated with industry trends and applying innovative solutions to real-world challenges. My ability to foster strong client relationships and drive business growth makes me a valuable asset to any organization.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Lead Team Manager – Sales
Smart Restore
Jun 2024 - Present (11 months)
Led a team of technicians with a 98% on-time project completion rate. Implemented process improvements that increased operational efficiency by 20%. Coordinated with insurance companies for repair authorizations and managed performance metrics using Sage.
Customer Experience & Sales Lead
Healthcare & Mobility Africa
Mar 2019 - Jun 2024 (5 years 3 months)
Led customer service operations, resolving inquiries efficiently and increasing sales by 18% through effective product promotion. Established long-term customer relationships and was honored as Employee of the Year multiple times.
Senior Financial Advisor - Debt Review
National Debt Advisors
Feb 2017 - Feb 2019 (2 years)
Exceeded lead generation and conversion targets, significantly increasing revenue. Optimized follow-up processes and managed sensitive financial data with full compliance, earning Employee of the Year recognition.
Financial Operations Specialist
Fusion Outsourcing (Pty) Ltd - WNS
Mar 2015 - Jan 2017 (1 year 10 months)
Managed business funds and payments via SAP and SIEBEL, streamlining financial processes to reduce discrepancies by 25%. Conducted daily reconciliations and ensured compliance with procurement policies.
Customer Service & Complaints Resolution Specialist
Fusion Outsourcing (Pty) Ltd (WNS)
Aug 2012 - Mar 2015 (2 years 7 months)
Resolved customer queries in real time, achieving high first-contact resolution rates. Consistently met performance targets and promoted UK-based clients’ products, enhancing customer retention.
Senior Estate Administration Specialist
FNB Trust Services (Pty) Ltd
Jul 2008 - Jul 2012 (4 years)
Led estate liquidation processes, ensuring timely asset transfers and claim settlements. Conducted beneficiary interviews and achieved the highest revenue in the department within the first year.
International Payments & Forex Specialist
FNB International Banking
Jun 2007 - Nov 2008 (1 year 5 months)
Ensured compliance with international regulations and exchange rate structures, maintaining meticulous documentation. This dedication protected transaction integrity and bolstered the bank’s reputation.
Coordinator
Kanuma Resources
Dec 2003 - May 2004 (5 months)
Coordinated between Congo and RSA offices, ensuring efficient communication and report delivery. Managed stock control and organized corporate events, contributing to smooth office operations.
Education
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Garth hasn't added their education
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