Jessica Sawyer
Green Turtle Cay
Summary
Resilient and community-focused logistics leader with over 25 years of diverse experience in hospitality, accounting, and international shipping. As the first licensed customs broker on Green Turtle Cay, leadership at Sawyers Customs Brokerage is driven by a mission to enhance trade transparency and efficiency, empowering small island economies. Recognized for operational excellence and strategic outreach, with a proven ability to create and implement effective business strategies that foster collaboration and drive growth. Adaptable and results-oriented, excelling in dynamic environments while demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills, along with a relentless work ethic.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Founder & Licensed Customs Broker
Sawyers Customs Brokerage
11.2023 - Current
- Founded the island’s first licensed customs brokerage firm, delivering transparent, community-focused import and export solutions.
- Simplified customs procedures for local businesses and residents, improving turnaround times and regulatory clarity.
- Led strategic engagement with government stakeholders to position customs brokerage as a key driver of post-Dorian recovery and long-term economic resilience.
Pastry Chef
Nick’s Café and Bakery
05.2021 - Current
- Co-managed bakery operations alongside family members.
- Created custom pastries and supported local food service.
Shipping Agent
Bimini Shipping
05.2020 - Current
- Coordinated freight operations and import and export documentation for U.S.–Bahamas shipments.
- Supported restoration of direct shipping routes to Green Turtle Cay post-Dorian.
- Ensured regulatory compliance and operational continuity during global disruptions.
Customs Liaison
Fredericks Agency Brokerage
01.2009 - 09.2023
- Managed tariff classification, import/export filings, and customs clearance.
- Served as liaison between Bahamian customs and international clients.
- Applied Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to streamline customs brokerage workflows, reduce processing delays, and enhance overall operational efficiency—driving measurable improvements in service delivery and regulatory compliance.
Accountant / Sales / Pastry Chef
Lowe’s Food Store and Gift Shop
01.1999 - 05.2020
- Maintained financial records, processed payroll, and managed inventory.
- Supported business continuity and customer service.
- Contributed to retail operations and culinary offerings.
Waitress / Server
Laura’s Kitchen
11.1998 - 08.2000
- Delivered attentive service in a family-run restaurant.
- Strengthened interpersonal and multitasking skills.
Waitress
Islands Restaurant and Grill
06.1996 - 11.1998
- Provided high-quality hospitality in a fast-paced environment.
- Built foundational skills in teamwork and customer engagement.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Business Administration (Accounting concentration)
Southern New Hampshire University
03.2027
High School Diploma - undefined
Forest Heights Academy
Skills
- Customs Brokerage & Tariff Classification
- Freight Coordination & Import Operations
- Regulatory Compliance & Documentation
- Financial Management & Bookkeeping
- Strategic Communication & Public Relations
- Lean, Six Sigma, and Triple Bottom Line Application
- Operational Dashboard Design & Data Analysis
- Team leadership
- Strategic thinking
- Marketing
- Entrepreneurial and innovative
Timeline
Founder & Licensed Customs Broker
Sawyers Customs Brokerage
11.2023 - Current
Pastry Chef
Nick’s Café and Bakery
05.2021 - Current
Shipping Agent
Bimini Shipping
05.2020 - Current
Customs Liaison
Fredericks Agency Brokerage
01.2009 - 09.2023
Accountant / Sales / Pastry Chef
Lowe’s Food Store and Gift Shop
01.1999 - 05.2020
Waitress / Server
Laura’s Kitchen
11.1998 - 08.2000
Waitress
Islands Restaurant and Grill
06.1996 - 11.1998
High School Diploma - undefined
Forest Heights Academy
Bachelor’s Degree - Business Administration (Accounting concentration)
Southern New Hampshire University