Microsoft Project
Cynthia Ford
Phoenix,AZ
Summary
Dynamic Project Manager, results driven and a proven track record of successes with companies and agencies, both private and government. Successful history of managing complex projects across various industries. Able to manage multiple projects simultaneous over several geographic locations. Adept at strategic planning and stakeholder communications and fostering team collaboration Expert in Risk Management and Mitigation. Successful in delivering high-quality and profile projects on time and within budget while leading and supporting cross-functional teams. Passionate about mentoring and driving solutions. Continuously seeking additional training and knowledge acquisition opportunities that will foster understanding and familiarity with industry trends and innovations.
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
PennsylvaniaMaster of Education MEd - Curriculum And Instruction
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OHBachelor of Arts - Social Science, Education
Hiram College
Hiram, OHSkills
- 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 on time and/or under budget
- Ability to communicate with all levels of management and present data driven results to enlighten stakeholders that have led to decisions or decision reversals, that were highly beneficial to the company, agency, staff and or constituents
- 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 Suite
Google Suite tools proficient
Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimeWork Location
RemoteHybridOn-SiteImportant To Me
Career advancementCompany CultureFlexible work hoursPersonal development programsWork from home optionTeam Building / Company RetreatsTimeline
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
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