Brenda Starnes
Gainesville,TX
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at Safran Seats USA, driving operational excellence and strategic initiatives. Proven track record in contract negotiations and team leadership, enhancing efficiency and profitability. Adept at complex problem-solving and fostering relationships, resulting in sustainable growth and improved customer satisfaction across global markets.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Contract Consultant
Safran Seats USA
Gainesville, TX
08.2023 - 01.2025
- Led cross-functional teams to resolve production issues on work transfers for legacy parts, including supply chain development.
- Implemented process and material improvements to optimize production build.
- Developed project KPI reporting for management and customers.
VP of Aftermarket, Operations
Safran Seats USA
Gainesville, TX
12.2018 - 07.2023
- Globally, led an operational team with stock efficiency and effective stock and demand forecasting across all seat product lines, supporting key customers in Brazil, Canada, Europe, Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, Middle East, and Singapore.
- Locally, led the customer support teams, operations in the areas of manufacturing and part distribution, maintenance repair and overhaul, and total integrated supply chain services.
- Collaborated and developed strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiencies across the aftermarket seats organization.
- Collaborated in developing and implementing process improvement strategies to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
- Negotiated high-value contracts that maximized profitability while mitigating risks for the organization.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement, fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth across the organization.
- Supported cross-functional teams in aligning project goals with organizational objectives.
Sr. Director of Programs
Safran Seats USA
Gainesville, TX
03.2016 - 12.2018
- Developed and implemented program strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align project goals with organizational objectives.
- Oversaw resource allocation and budgeting for multiple concurrent projects.
- Established performance metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and success.
- Provided ongoing direction and leadership for program operations.
- Led cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones, ensuring timely and within-budget delivery.
VP of Programs
Safran Seats USA
Gainesville, TX
09.2011 - 03.2016
- Led strategic planning and execution of program initiatives, aligning with organizational goals.
- Developed and implemented operational frameworks, enhancing efficiency across multiple departments.
- Mentored cross-functional teams, fostering professional growth and collaboration in project delivery.
- Analyzed program performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and optimize resource allocation.
- Directed budget management processes, ensuring financial sustainability of programs through effective oversight.
- Implemented measures to monitor the progress of programs against predefined milestones and KPIs, ensuring timely delivery and attainment of desired outcomes.
- Effectively navigated challenging situations by utilizing strong negotiation skills with stakeholders to align priorities and find mutually beneficial solutions.
- Communicated regularly with stakeholders, updating on progress to build support for program.
- Negotiated program contracts and agreements to obtain cost-effective pricing.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
Education
MBA - EMBA
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX12-2011
Bachelor of Science - Education
Texas Women's University
Denton, TX08-1997
Skills
- Contract Negotiations
- Team leadership
- Relationship Building
- Decision-making
- Critical Thinking
- Operational Excellence
- Change Management
- Risk Management
- Profit and Loss (P&L) oversight and management
- Customer Service
- Program Management
- Complex Problem-solving
Timeline
Contract Consultant
Safran Seats USA
08.2023 - 01.2025
VP of Aftermarket, Operations
Safran Seats USA
12.2018 - 07.2023
Sr. Director of Programs
Safran Seats USA
03.2016 - 12.2018
VP of Programs
Safran Seats USA
09.2011 - 03.2016
MBA - EMBA
Texas Woman's University
Bachelor of Science - Education
Texas Women's University