Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Software
Timeline
Generic

Cynthia Ford

Phoenix,AZ

Summary

Dynamic Project Manager with a proven track record with multiple agencies and companies, adept at strategic planning and stakeholder communications. Expert in risk management and fostering team collaboration, successfully delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget. Passionate about mentoring teams and driving innovative solutions.

Diligent Project Manager with background in managing complex projects across various industries. Known for successfully leading cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within scope. Demonstrated ability to manage project lifecycles and implement process improvements.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience
2
2

Certifications

Work History

Project Manager

State of Arizona Department of Economic Security
08.2019 - Current
  • Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
  • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
  • Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful project completion.
  • Developed comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and budget requirements, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
  • Monitored progress against established goals, adjusting schedules and resources as needed to keep projects on track.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams and resolved conflicts, maintaining a positive work environment throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Prepared detailed reports on project status for stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment with objectives.
  • Effectively managed scope creep by establishing clear boundaries on requested changes while keeping projects aligned with original objectives and budgets.
  • Promoted innovation within project teams, encouraging exploration of new tools and methodologies to enhance project outcomes.
  • Achieved high levels of team engagement and morale by promoting collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Director, Project Manager

The Ford Group, LLC (Independent Contractor)
09.2004 - Current
  • Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
  • Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
  • Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
  • Enhanced data-driven decision-making by implementing advanced analytics and reporting tools.
  • Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
  • Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.

Event Planner, Project Manager

Plexus Worldwide
08.2013 - 11.2015
  • Increased event attendance by developing strategic marketing campaigns and engaging promotional materials.
  • Coordinated schedules and timelines for events.
  • Conferred with event staff at event site to coordinate details.
  • Coordinated with participating vendors during event planning.
  • Utilized project management skills to keep events on track while meeting deadlines and staying within budget parameters.
  • Managed logistics for successful events, including venue selection, contract negotiation, and coordinating with vendors.
  • Adapted quickly to unforeseen circumstances or changes in the event landscape, implementing contingency plans as needed.
  • Managed event logistics and operations.
  • Performed face-to-face meetings to finalize contract for services and event details.
  • Streamlined event registration processes, enhancing attendee experience and improving overall efficiency.
  • Implemented post-event evaluations to identify areas of improvement and drive continuous enhancement of future initiatives.
  • Optimized event layouts and floor plans to maximize attendee flow and overall experience, minimizing congestion in high-traffic areas.
  • Supported senior leadership by developing status reports on activities related to planning, scheduling, cancellation, inquiries, resourcing, risk mitigation, and proposal development for various events.
  • Implemented contingency plans to address last-minute changes or unforeseen events.
  • Coordinated travel and accommodations for event attendees.
  • Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
  • Established effective communication among team members for enhanced collaboration and successful project completion.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams and resolved conflicts, maintaining a positive work environment throughout the project lifecycle.

Education

PMP, PMIPMO-CP - Project Management

Project Management Institute
Pennsylvania

Master of Education MEd - Curriculum And Instruction

Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH

Bachelor of Arts - Social Science, Education

Hiram College
Hiram, OH

Skills

  • Project management
  • Project planning and development
  • Strategic planning
  • Stakeholder communications
  • Risk management
  • Processes and procedures
  • Agile methodology
  • Presentations
  • Root-cause analysis
  • Requirements gathering

Certification

  • PMP - Project Management Professional
  • Project Management Office Certified Practitioner, Project Management Institute

Accomplishments

  • Saved the company money over five years by implementing successful productivity improvement plans
  • Completed the multiple projects time and/or under budget
  • Curriculum writing expert and consultant for training
  • Developed and executed training and educational sessions for peers and for Leadership

Affiliations

  • Board Direct Project Management Institute Phoenix Chapter
  • National Education Association
  • Member of several Boards and Professional Organizations

Software

Microsoft Project

Microsoft Suite

Google Suite tools proficient

Timeline

Project Manager

State of Arizona Department of Economic Security
08.2019 - Current

Event Planner, Project Manager

Plexus Worldwide
08.2013 - 11.2015

Director, Project Manager

The Ford Group, LLC (Independent Contractor)
09.2004 - Current

PMP, PMIPMO-CP - Project Management

Project Management Institute

Master of Education MEd - Curriculum And Instruction

Cleveland State University

Bachelor of Arts - Social Science, Education

Hiram College
Cynthia Ford