Brook W. Gibbs
46 Hall Street
Newtown, Wellington 6021
Home: 4-389-9654, mobile: 027-323-7770
E-mail: brookgibbs@hotmail.com
Personal Profile
Having recently completed my Masters of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of Arkansas, I am eager to apply my knowledge and experience in areas that will further the economic development and sustainability of the world. I am confident I possess solid skills and capabilities in:
- Environmental analysis
- Economics
- Policy & Data research and analysis
- Problem Solving and negotiation
- Forecasting and modelling
- Business administration and development
My achievements include awards for business simulations, academic and professional recognition and analysis of opportunities to improve sustainability in rural communities. In my work, I focus on well researched, quality solutions. I constantly seek opportunities to apply innovative approaches to all of my assignments. I have particular strengths in understanding complex systems, and I enjoy sharing my knowledge with others. Additionally, I possess the ability to learn and scope projects quickly, as well as to define and meet objectives in a timely manner.
Key Skills
Research and Analysis
- Demonstrated ability to identify and assess objectives, issues, and impacts to determine research requirements
- Ability to analyse data to inform research, improve processes and insure appropriate outcomes
- Capable of sourcing required information and employing appropriate methodology
- Seek to organize and synthesize knowledge into actionable conclusions
Planning/Organizing
- Effectively scope project goals, assess resource needs and prioritise multiple assignments and tasks
- Ability to deliver projects to achieve goals in line with objectives, timeframes and budgets
- Identify risks and issues to appropriately manage processes
Team Work
- Ability to work independently or in a team environment
- Actively seeks opportunities for collaboration and common ground
- Contribute to project success through identification of common goals, clear communication and hard work
Communication
- Effectively conveys information verbally and in writing
- Confident presenter with proven ability to convey complex information and results clearly
- Ensures communications are facilitated across areas
Problem-Solving/Reasoning
- Innovative thinker who seeks opportunities to develop new approaches and solutions
- Resourceful in applying knowledge, available information and resources to solve problems
Computer and Technical Literacy
- Computer-literate with software proficiency covering a variety of applications
- Understanding of hardware systems and business solutions applications
- Knowledge of financial, statistical, forecasting and modelling systems
Experience Summary
Research Projects 2007-2010
Renewable Energy Development Programme, Newton County, Arkansas
- Analysed and evaluated the potential for replacement of current utility services with renewable energy options in a rural environment
- Determined energy demand & footprint of the local community, and made future projections to determine future needs and required capital investment
- Prepared comprehensive project budgets, including expected costs & incidental costs
- Concluded that current alternative energy production options were not financially viable in the current market environment, and that population density and current power transmission expenses prevented change to more sustainable practices
“Power to the People” A study of energy needs in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Research and evaluation of electricity needs in Sub-Saharan Niger
- Compared past, current and future needs to determine the actual levels of electricity needed in 2015 in Niger, both urban and rural
- Concluded that electricity transmission was the single determinant constraining the growth and prosperity of Niger. Established that a development of infrastructure and capacity for permanent energy production would result in significant improvements in GDP, PCI, and overall GNI for Niger
“The Economic and Environmental impact of Bees”
- Assessment of environmental and economic impact of Colony Collapse Disorder
- Researched and quantified the economic and environmental impact of honey bee pollination
- Environmental Impact Assessments
- Determined that without pollination provided by honey bees, the US economy would lose over $50 billion dollars in direct agricultural revenue, and more than double that in affiliated markets
IBM 2008
Client Sales Executive
- Liaison and sales representative for software, hardware and middleware solutions to corporations
- Assessed client needs and aligned with company offerings
- Made recommendations for reducing inefficiencies, streamlining production costs and improving profitability
- Market and industry research, systems evaluation and monitoring
- Point-of-contact between client executives, corporations, and IBM
Bikes Blues & BBQ event May to October 2007
Vendor Coordinator
- Provided support to vendors for 4 day events with 350,000+ visitors
- Managed and scheduled100+ volunteers
- Assigned responsibilities to volunteers
- Directed logistics, including set-up and tear-down for venue
- Organised and maintain databases
- Assessed opportunities and planning needs for following year’s events
Habitat for Humanity May to August 2006
Business Consultant
- Developed strategies and key success factors
- Analysed market segments and conditions
- Competitive analysis of product/services
- Conducted financial analysis, profit and loss statements
- Identified risks and investment requirements
- Assessed operational and resource needs
- Created timelines and forecasts that aligned with objectives
- Created marketing strategies
- Researched business opportunities for retail resale entity
“Habistore”
- Improved on projected break-even point by 7 months
Gibbs & Company 2002-2006 Owner/Operator
- Construction and home improvement projects ranging in scale
- Services included plumbing, electrical, landscaping, shingling, irrigation
- Business development and customer relationship management
- Hired, trained, mentored and monitored casual staff
- Project analysis, materials management, budgeting
- Resource maintenance and upkeep
Education Summary
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA 2007-2010
Masters in Science in Agricultural Economics
- Emphasis in Environmental and Rural Sustainability
World Traveller 2002-2006
New Zealand
- Grew wine, built houses, Estate manager
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA 1997-2002
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Professional Skills & Achievements
Proficient in Microsoft Office Products (Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
Practical Knowledge of SPSS and SAP
Marketing simulations
Modelling (Financial, Marketing, Growth, Usage, Demand)
Budgeting and Forecasting
Statistical Analysis
Environment Impact Assessments
Winner of Marketing Business Simulation Competition 2007
Dean’s List Spring 2001
References
Available on request