Kevin Phan
Kevin Phan
Retail Customer-Service | Not-for-Profit Operations | Student Services
Retail Customer-Service | Not-for-Profit Operations | Student Services
University of Melbourne, VIC
Available for Graduate Programmes and Internships
Available for collaboration
About me
About me
I am a driven and versatile professional with an entry-level background in leadership, operations, and people management. My experience spans student leadership, not-for-profit recruitment and management, and retail operations and customer services, allowing me to develop the confidence and grit I have today as a budding early career professional, soon-to-be graduate, and community leader.
I am eager to transition into a career in not-for-profit community-centred facilitation, Management and Operations, where I can leverage my leadership experience, organisational expertise, excellent communication skills, and ability to foster high-performing teams. I am passionate about creating positive, well-structured work environments and helping individuals and teams reach their full potential through effective management and development strategies.
I’m most fulfilled when I know my work empowers others. If everyone feels supported, safe and valued, we can make a bigger difference and achieve more as a team.
I am a driven and versatile professional with an entry-level background in leadership, operations, and people management. My experience spans student leadership, not-for-profit management, and retail operations and customer services, allowing me to develop the confidence and grit I have today as a budding professional, soon-to-be graduate, and community leader.
I am eager to transition into a career in Human Resources, and Management and Operations, where I can leverage my leadership experience, organisational expertise, and excellent communication skills. I am passionate about creating positive, well-structured work environments and helping individuals and teams reach their full potential through effective management and development strategies.
I’m most fulfilled when I know my work empowers others. If everyone feels supported, safe and valued, we can make a bigger difference and achieve more as a team.
I am a driven and versatile professional with an entry-level background in leadership, operations, and people management. My experience spans student leadership, not-for-profit management, and retail operations and customer services, allowing me to develop the confidence and grit I have today as a budding professional, soon-to-be graduate, and community leader.
I am eager to transition into a career in Human Resources, and Management and Operations, where I can leverage my leadership experience, organisational expertise, and ability to foster high-performing teams. I am passionate about creating positive, well-structured work environments and helping individuals and teams reach their full potential through effective management and development strategies.
I’m most fulfilled when I know my work empowers others. If everyone feels supported, safe and valued, we can make a bigger difference and achieve more as a team.
Experience
Experience
Melbourne, VIC
Specsavers Altona Meadows
Jul 2019 - Nov 2021
Specsavers Prahran
Nov 2021 - May 2023
Specsavers Highpoint
May 2023 - Dec 2023
Specsavers Melbourne Central
Aug 2024 - Present
Optical Assistant
Over 4 years experience in optical retail, and had the opportunity to work across four different Specsavers locations, stepping in where needed through talent transfers and vacancy support. Developed great versatility and flexibility as a team member, always ready to contribute and use my senses to act appropriately to changing dynamics, stakes, and relationships.
Consistently exceeds sales targets, earning incentives and bonuses for my high-performing Average Order Value (AOV). Takes great care and pride helping customers find the best optical solutions for their needs while also contributing to the store’s success.
Entrusted with key store operations and administrative responsibilities, including opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and banking, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, trains and mentors new team members, sharing essential knowledge of optical products, customer service, and sales techniques to build a high-performing team.
Manages scheduling, inventory, and workflow coordination, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a seamless experience for both customers and optometrists.
Melbourne, VIC
Specsavers Altona Meadows
Jul 2019 - Nov 2021
Specsavers Prahran
Nov 2021 - May 2023
Specsavers Highpoint
May 2023 - Dec 2023
Specsavers Melbourne Central
Aug 2024 - Present
Optical Assistant
Over 4 years experience in optical retail, and had the opportunity to work across four different Specsavers locations, stepping in where needed through talent transfers and vacancy support. Developed great versatility and flexibility as a team member, always ready to contribute and use my senses to act appropriately to changing dynamics and relationships.
Consistently exceeds sales targets, earning incentives and bonuses for my high-performing Average Order Value (AOV). Takes great care and pride helping customers find the best optical solutions for their needs while also contributing to the store’s success.
Entrusted with key store operations and administrative responsibilities, including opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and banking, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, trains and mentors new team members, sharing essential knowledge of optical products, customer service, and sales techniques to build a high-performing team.
Manages scheduling, inventory, and workflow coordination, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a seamless experience for both customers and optometrists.
Melbourne, VIC
Specsavers Altona Meadows
Jul 2019 - Nov 2021
Specsavers Prahran
Nov 2021 - May 2023
Specsavers Highpoint
May 2023 - Dec 2023
Specsavers Melbourne Central
Jul 2019 - Present
Optical Assistant
Over 4 years experience in optical retail, and had the opportunity to work across four different Specsavers locations, stepping in where needed through talent transfers and vacancy support. Developed great versatility and flexibility as a team member, always ready to contribute and use my senses to act appropriately to changing dynamics, stakes, and relationships.
Consistently exceeds sales targets, earning incentives and bonuses for my high-performing Average Order Value (AOV). Takes great care and pride helping customers find the best optical solutions for their needs while also contributing to the store’s success.
Entrusted with key store operations and administrative responsibilities, including opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and banking, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, trains and mentors new team members, sharing essential knowledge of optical products, customer service, and sales techniques to build a high-performing team.
Manages scheduling, inventory, and workflow coordination, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and a seamless experience for both customers and optometrists.
Melbourne, VIC
Embrace Education
Sept 2025 – Present
Director of Education
Promote volunteering programs by liaising with schools, volunteers, and staff, managing third-party relationships with our programs through school-visits, being the first-point of contact for school partnership enquiries and volunteers.
Volunteer recruitment, being extremely knowledgable of the recruitment process and club operations, and being a personable face for the organisation at fairs and student union-run events, including stall organising for Volunteers and Experience Fair and Summerfest.
Melbourne, VIC
Embrace Education
Sept 2025 – Present
Director of Education
Promote volunteering programs by liaising with schools, volunteers, and staff, managing third-party relationships with our programs through school-visits, being the first-point of contact for school partnership enquiries and volunteers.
Volunteer recruitment, being extremely knowledgable of the recruitment process and club operations, and being a personable face for the organisation at fairs and student union-run events, including stall organising for Volunteers and Experience Fair and Summerfest.
Parkville, VIC
Embrace Education North-West Chapter
Aug 2024 - Sept 2025
Club President / Director of Operations
General Director
Aug 2023 - Aug 2024
Treasurer
Aug 2023 - Aug 2024
Led and manage a diverse team of committee members and volunteers, overseeing club operations, strategic planning, and the execution of tutoring programs across Melbourne’s north-western suburbs, ensuring efficient service delivery and strong community impact.
Oversee and coordinate multiple functions, including recruitment, event planning, marketing, and administrative processes, demonstrating versatility in managing various operational needs to sustain and grow the organisation.
Develop and implement strategic initiatives to improve tutor engagement, streamline workflows, and enhance program effectiveness, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Act as a key representative for the organisation, fostering relationships with university stakeholders, student volunteers, and external partners while driving a collaborative, mission-driven culture that aligns with Embrace Education’s goals.
Parkville, VIC
Embrace Education North-West Chapter
Aug 2024 - Sept 2025
Club President / Director of Operations
General Director
Aug 2023 - Aug 2024
Treasurer
Aug 2023 - Aug 2024
Led and manage a diverse team of committee members and volunteers, overseeing club operations, strategic planning, and the execution of tutoring programs across Melbourne’s north-western suburbs, ensuring efficient service delivery and strong community impact.
Oversee and coordinate multiple functions, including recruitment, event planning, marketing, and administrative processes, demonstrating versatility in managing various operational needs to sustain and grow the organisation.
Develop and implement strategic initiatives to improve tutor engagement, streamline workflows, and enhance program effectiveness, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Act as a key representative for the organisation, fostering relationships with university stakeholders, student volunteers, and external partners while driving a collaborative, mission-driven culture that aligns with Embrace Education’s goals.
Melbourne, VIC
Switchboard, Inc.
Oct 2019 – Mar 2020
Peer Supporter
Provided empathetic and confidential telephone support, assisting individuals with emotional well-being and community resources.
Assessed caller needs and provided relevant information, referrals, and crisis intervention when necessary.
Actively listened and engaged in compassionate, non-judgmental conversations, fostering a safe and supportive space.
Maintained professional boundaries and confidentiality, ensuring ethical and responsible peer support.
Melbourne, VIC
Switchboard, Inc.
Oct 2019 – Mar 2020
Peer Supporter
Provided empathetic and confidential telephone support, assisting individuals with emotional well-being and community resources.
Assessed caller needs and provided relevant information, referrals, and crisis intervention when necessary.
Actively listened and engaged in compassionate, non-judgmental conversations, fostering a safe and supportive space.
Maintained professional boundaries and confidentiality, ensuring ethical and responsible peer support.
Education
Education
Parkville, VIC
2023-Jul 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, and Politics and International Studies
University of Melbourne, WAM 80.33
Subjects undertaken focus on political theory, modern history, and cultural studies across East and Southeast Asia. Developed strong analytical, cross-cultural, and research skills through interdisciplinary coursework. Coursework to-date includes extensive exploration of the history, politics, and cultural dynamics of the Asia–Pacific region with a focus on contemporary social change and identity.
Parkville, VIC
2023-Jul 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, and Politics and International Studies Minor
University of Melbourne, WAM 80.33
Subjects undertaken focus on political theory, modern history, and cultural studies across East and Southeast Asia. Developed strong analytical, cross-cultural, and research skills through interdisciplinary coursework. Coursework to-date includes extensive exploration of the history, politics, and cultural dynamics of the Asia–Pacific region with a focus on contemporary social change and identity.
Parkville, VIC
2023-Jul 2026
Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, and Politics and International Studies
University of Melbourne, WAM 80.33
Subjects undertaken focus on political theory, modern history, and cultural studies across East and Southeast Asia. Developed strong analytical, cross-cultural, and research skills through interdisciplinary coursework. Coursework to-date includes extensive exploration of the history, politics, and cultural dynamics of the Asia–Pacific region with a focus on contemporary social change and identity.
Took fundamental entry-level classes for programming and computer science. Skills developed include: elementary CSS/HTML5, Javascript, Python, Java, C#, C, and mySQL. Subjects completed include: Object-Oriented Development, Database and Information Retrieval, Web Technologies and Development, Analytics for Security and Privacy, Software Requirements Analysis and Modelling.
Took fundamental entry-level classes for programming and computer science. Skills developed include: elementary CSS/HTML5, Javascript, Python, Java, C#, C, and mySQL. Subjects completed include: Object-Oriented Development, Database and Information Retrieval, Web Technologies and Development, Analytics for Security and Privacy, Software Requirements Analysis and Modelling.
Took fundamental entry-level classes for programming and computer science. Skills developed include: elementary CSS/HTML5, Javascript, Python, Java, C#, C, and mySQL. Subjects completed include: Object-Oriented Development, Database and Information Retrieval, Web Technologies and Development, Analytics for Security and Privacy, Software Requirements Analysis and Modelling.
Recipient of Vice-Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarship. Completed coursework relevant to anatomy, biochemistry, biological structures and function, and vision science. Highlights include pre-optometry clinical skills, Team-Based Learning, Case Studies, and OSCEs for accreditation. Placements at Barwon Health, Deakin Collaborative Eye Care Clinic, St Vincent’s Public Hospital. Completed an internship at Australian College of Optometry, Carlton VIC.
Recipient of Vice-Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarship. Completed coursework relevant to anatomy, biochemistry, biological structures and function, and vision science. Highlights include pre-optometry clinical skills, Team-Based Learning, Case Studies, and OSCEs for accreditation. Placements at Barwon Health, Deakin Collaborative Eye Care Clinic, St Vincent’s Public Hospital. Completed an internship at Australian College of Optometry, Carlton VIC.
Certificates
Certifications
Certifications
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
LivingWorks Australia, Nov 2019
Note: 'Bobbie' was my former name.
Peer Supporter Training Certificate
Switchboard Inc., Oct 2019
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
LivingWorks Australia, Nov 2019
Peer Supporter Training Certificate
Switchboard Inc., Oct 2019
Peer Supporter Training Certificate
Switchboard Inc., Oct 2019
safeTALK Accredited Certificate
LivingWorks Australia, Oct 2019
safeTALK Accredited Certificate
LivingWorks Australia, Oct 2019
Awards
Awards
Vice-Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarship
Deakin University, 2018-2021
Vice-Chancellor's Academic Excellence Scholarship
Deakin University, 2018-2021
Dux of Senior School
Received the highest score in school-leaver's cohort, 2017.
Dux of Senior School
Received the highest score in school-leaver's cohort, 2017.
What I Offer
Skills and Hobbies
What I Offer
Recommendations
Recommendations
Lisa-Jane Campbell
Manager at Specsavers Melbourne Central
“If glasses need readjusting, Kevin is the first person I would go to. He's reliable, sharp, and always keeps his cool, even when everything’s chaotic on the shop floor. He could be helping a tricky dispense, or stepping in for some of our new staff and offering assistance. He's hardworking, gets everything done, so a shift with Kevin really means I can relax a little more. He's great to work with. He's funny, supportive, and always brings a calming energy and karma to the team.”
Lisa-Jane Campbell
Manager at Specsavers Melbourne Central
“If glasses need readjusting, Kevin is the first person I would go to. He's reliable, sharp, and always keeps his cool, even when everything’s chaotic on the shop floor. He could be helping a tricky dispense, or stepping in for some of our new staff and offering assistance. He's hardworking, gets everything done, so a shift with Kevin really means I can relax a little more. He's great to work with. He's funny, supportive, and always brings a calming energy and karma to the team.”
Viraj Patel
UMSU Education Office Bearer and Secretary at Embrace Education
“Working with Kevin has been amazing. He just get things done and Embrace has really benefitted from it. Whether it’s organising a team, solving last-minute logistics for an event, or making sure everything runs smoothly, Kevin's always on top of it. He's the kind of leader who listens, supports, and actually makes you feel like your work matters. I honestly don’t know how he can juggle so much, but somehow, he does it all and makes it look extra easy.”
Viraj Patel
UMSU Education Office Bearer and Secretary at Embrace Education
“Working with Kevin has been amazing. He just get things done and Embrace has really benefitted from it. Whether it’s organising a team, solving last-minute logistics for an event, or making sure everything runs smoothly, Kevin's always on top of it. He's the kind of leader who listens, supports, and actually makes you feel like your work matters. I honestly don’t know how he can juggle so much, but somehow, he does it all and makes it look extra easy.”
