CHARLA PLASTER
Memphis
Summary
Operations and team leadership professional with extensive experience managing fast-paced environments, coordinating complex operations, supporting executive leadership, and delivering exceptional customer and stakeholder experiences. Proven ability to lead teams, manage competing priorities, oversee logistics and daily operations, and maintain high organizational and presentation standards. Background includes merchandising, retail operations, customer service, event coordination, and staff support with a reputation for professionalism, dependability, and collaborative leadership.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Grants Program Manager / Senior Program Manager, Affinity Giving
Indiana University Foundation
Bloomington, IN
10.2022 - Current
- Lead operational coordination and daily program support within a fast-paced, multi-campus environment.
- Manage multiple priorities, schedules, logistics, and communications while maintaining exceptional organizational standards.
- Coordinate meetings, events, and leadership activities involving diverse stakeholders and volunteers.
- Support strategic initiatives through problem-solving, organization, and operational oversight.
- Maintain detailed reporting, documentation, and financial tracking for programs exceeding $500,000 annually.
- Collaborate across departments to ensure smooth operations and positive participant experiences.
- Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in high-volume environments with changing priorities.
Senior Associate Director, Women’s Philanthropy
Indiana University Foundation
Bloomington, IN
01.2018 - 10.2022
- Coordinated large-scale events, meetings, and engagement activities requiring detailed logistical planning and execution.
- Managed communications, scheduling, and operational support for leadership councils and volunteer groups.
- Built strong relationships through excellent customer service, responsiveness, and professional communication.
- Assisted with planning, organization, and execution of presentations and public-facing initiatives.
- Maintained professionalism and confidentiality while supporting leadership operations in a dynamic environment.
Executive Administrative Assistant, Office of the Vice President
Indiana University
Bloomington, IN
09.2014 - 01.2018
- Supported daily operations within a high-profile executive office serving multiple senior leaders.
- Managed complex scheduling, travel coordination, event planning, and operational logistics.
- Prioritized competing demands in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
- Assisted with operational processes, expense management, reporting, and administrative coordination.
- Worked collaboratively across departments to ensure efficient communication and workflow.
Executive Secretary, Office of the Chancellor
Indiana University Southeast
New Albany, IN
07.2013 - 09.2014
- Coordinated office operations, leadership meetings, events, and communications for university leadership.
- Managed scheduling, documentation, and day-to-day administrative operations.
- Supported large events and meetings requiring organization, logistics coordination, and customer-focused service.
Senior Administrative Assistant, Student Affairs & Development
Indiana University Southeast
New Albany, IN
01.2008 - 07.2013
- Supported administrative operations for multiple departments within a collaborative team environment.
- Coordinated meetings, events, volunteer activities, and operational logistics.
- Assisted with organizational tracking, reporting, and process coordination.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies, Communication Studies
Indiana University
Skills
- Retail & Operations Management
- Team Leadership & Staff Support
- Merchandising & Visual Presentation
- Customer Service Excellence
- Fast-Paced Problem Solving
- Scheduling & Operational Coordination
- Inventory & Organizational Management
- Event & Logistics Coordination
- Leadership Communication
- Team Training & Mentorship
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Vendor & Supply Coordination
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Process Improvement & Organization
Affiliations
- Former Co-Chair, IU Southeast Broadening Leadership Initiative
- Former Member, IU Southeast Staff Council
Certification
- Certificate in Fund Raising Management (CFRM) — Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy
- Manager Training Series — Indiana University
Timeline
Grants Program Manager / Senior Program Manager, Affinity Giving
Indiana University Foundation
10.2022 - Current
Senior Associate Director, Women’s Philanthropy
Indiana University Foundation
01.2018 - 10.2022
Executive Administrative Assistant, Office of the Vice President
Indiana University
09.2014 - 01.2018
Executive Secretary, Office of the Chancellor
Indiana University Southeast
07.2013 - 09.2014
Senior Administrative Assistant, Student Affairs & Development
Indiana University Southeast
01.2008 - 07.2013
Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Studies, Communication Studies
Indiana University
Additional Retail, Office Management & Leadership Experience
- Previous experience in retail operations, merchandising, customer service, and team support
- Experience maintaining visual presentation standards and organized operational environments
- Background in customer engagement, staff coordination, and fast-paced operational support
- Three years of office management and human resources experience including interviewing, onboarding, employee training coordination, record management, and compliance tracking for required certifications
- Experience supporting daily operations, problem-solving, team collaboration, and staff development