1. Sarah J. Buckles
7652 Charlemont Drive, Manlius, NY 13104 | 315.399.0575
sjbuckles923@yahoo.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbuckles
Business Manager | Executive Assistant | Customer Advocate
Customer-focused, hands-on business manager specializing in overseeing daily administrative
operations of small businesses. Manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, and client
communications with urgency, confidentiality, and success. Effective in identifying and implementing
cost saving measures. Extensive experience working in a virtual environment.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Accounting software – QuickBooks, online
and desktop versions/Intuit Payments
Microsoft Office Suite
Remote email exchange/web domain
host - Rackspace, godaddy
Cloud Storage – WebEx, DropBox
Scheduling tools - Doodle, TimeTrade,
SignUpGenius
Screensharing – Skype, join.me, Facetime
VOIP phone systems – manage client
usage and administrative web portal
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
MESSENGER ASSOCIATES, SYRACUSE, NY 2011-Present
Career management and human resource consulting firm serving both individuals and organizations in
and around Central New York, as well as virtually across the country.
Business Manager, 2014-Present
Partner with president and vice president on all operational decisions of the business.
Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable, resulting in on-time delivery of invoices
and receipt of payments – utilize QuickBooks to track all financial data.
Recovered $160,000 from phone provider due to fraudulent phone calls on our lines.
Assist with writing business proposals, letters of agreement, client communications – create
templates, draft language, identify time and cost for budgets.
Conduct research to gather information for current projects, potential new business or
operational changes, resulting in making informed decisions for the company.
Manage virtual technology systems - cloud storage, email, VOIP phone - continually research
options to ensure highest efficiency.
Executive Assistant, 2011-2014
Assist President with managing schedule, including phone, email and appointments.
Provide final proof and edits to all documents prior to submission, ensuring accuracy and
consistency.
Track and submit payroll to outside payroll company.
Oversee state and national (NYS WBE and WBENC) certification/recertification processes.
Control and post updates on company website and Facebook page for optimal company
visibility.
THE WINE HOUSE, INC., MANLIUS, NY 2006-Present
Family owned boutique wine shop, carrying nearly 500 different wines and spirits from around the world.
Educational tastings and classes offered on a regular basis throughout the year.
Manager, 2006-Present
Oversee all administrative and customer service aspects ensuring smooth daily operations.
Manage cash flow - continually track incoming and outgoing funds, resulting in keeping
accounts balanced.
Responsible for weekly product ordering and receiving to ensure in-stock position on key items.
Manage 4 part-time sales staff, including schedules, training, and payroll.
Fulfill special requests in timely manner – follow up with vendors and customers to maintain high
levels of customer satisfaction.
2. Sarah Buckles Page 2
STICKLEY FURNITURE, MANLIUS, NY 2007-2008
Planner, Purchasing Department, 2007-2008
Responsible for planning and buying for 6 categories of materials used in the factory.
Utilized inventory systems and weekly reports to analyze factory needs within assigned
categories.
Managed order fulfillment and shipment follow-up with vendors and factory personnel.
TOYS “R” US, INC., WAYNE, NJ 1995-2004
Manager of Training & Development, 1999-2004
Managed schedules and expenses for a team of 6 traveling trainers; served as their
communication link to office headquarters.
Coordinated training processes for 500 retail store teams.
Facilitated training sessions as necessary to ensure store needs were met.
Member of many cross-functional teams charged to plan company-wide programs and events.
Field Trainer, 1997-1999
Conducted training classes for store associates; led lessons on product features, selling and
customer service tips to equip sales associates with necessary skills for success.
Facilitated training classes with new management trainees – introduced participants to
company culture and expectations.
Special Order Coordinator, 1995-1997
Managed the special order program for the Babies “R” Us division.
Created the special order “help desk” allowing store employees to call in for assistance with
customer orders; fielded calls and provided required information to meet customer needs.
Responsible for writing and approving purchase orders.
Maintained extensive follow-up with stores and vendors to ensure timely delivery of
merchandise.
EDUCATION
Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY
Master of Arts, Child and Family Studies
Concentration: Child Development
Niagara University, Niagara Falls, NY
Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Psychology Minor
Niagara University Community Action Program (participant and board member)
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
Greater Manlius Chamber of Commerce (current business member; board member, 2007-2008)
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
Fayetteville Manlius School District (classroom, book fairs, school café, 2009-present)
Eastern Hills Bible Church (children’s ministry program, 2009-present)