Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Activities
Certification
Timeline
Generic
Deborah Ann Begay

Deborah Ann Begay

Phoenix,Arizona

Summary

Results-driven executive professional with proven track record in strategic leadership and operational excellence. Adept at driving growth through effective team collaboration, strategic planning, and resource management. Skilled in stakeholder communication, problem-solving, and adapting to changing business needs. Renowned for delivering impactful results and fostering culture of high performance.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Administrative Law Judge

AZ Department of Economic Security, Office of Appeals
02.2025 - Current
  • Presided over hearings to adjudicate administrative disputes, ensuring adherence to legal standards.
  • Evaluated evidence and testimonies to render fair and impartial decisions in complex cases.
  • Developed detailed written opinions that articulated legal reasoning and conclusions effectively.
  • Mentored junior judges and staff on procedural best practices and case management techniques.
  • Collaborated with fellow Administrative Law Judges to share best practices and develop strategies for overcoming common challenges faced during hearings.

Justice of the Peace Pro Tem

Maricopa County Courts
01.2025 - Current
  • Presided over civil ceremonies, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and protocols.
  • Provided impartial mediation services, facilitating conflict resolution between parties.
  • Drafted and authenticated legal documents, maintaining accuracy and adherence to regulations.
  • Conducted workshops on rights and responsibilities, enhancing community awareness and engagement.
  • Mentored new Justices of the Peace, sharing best practices for effective judicial procedures.
  • Actively participated in continuing education programs to stay current on relevant laws, regulations, and best practices within the judiciary field.
  • Collaborated with other Justices of the Peace to share knowledge and improve overall effectiveness within the jurisdiction.
  • Enhanced procedural fairness by providing clear explanations of court processes to litigants during hearings.
  • Reviewed pleadings, motions and evidence to assess admissibility and relevance to case.
  • Determined proper sentencing, monetary fees and damages to be paid on basis of case facts and established guidelines.

Justice of the Peace Moon Valley

Maricopa Justice Courts
01.2021 - 12.2024
  • Direct and supervise overall operation of the Moon Valley Justice Court.
  • Presides over criminal, civil, traffic and juvenile cases.
  • Exercise considerable independent judgment in managing the docket, ruling on motions and adjudicatory cases.
  • Demonstrated empathy and compassion toward individuals experiencing difficult circumstances while maintaining professional boundaries as an impartial adjudicator.
  • Maintained accurate records of proceedings, safeguarding the integrity of legal documentation within the jurisdiction.
  • Presided over civil and criminal cases, ensuring fair and just outcomes for all parties involved.
  • Mediated disputes, facilitating resolutions that adhered to legal standards and community expectations.
  • Administered oaths and affirmations to witnesses, enhancing the integrity of court proceedings.
  • Collaborated with law enforcement and legal professionals to streamline case processing procedures.
  • Implemented alternative dispute resolution strategies when appropriate, promoting harmonious outcomes for disputing parties.
  • Regularly reviewed and updated local court rules, policies, and procedures to maintain alignment with state and federal regulations.

Tribal Policy Liaison

Arizona Department of Education
01.2020 - 06.2020
  • Support ADE on interpreting and navigating tribal governance structures and education policies. Analyze and communicate to tribal nations on the intersection and potential impact of state and federal education policy.
  • Facilitated communication between educational stakeholders to enhance collaboration and support student needs.
  • Coordinated training programs for educators, improving instructional strategies and pedagogical effectiveness.
  • Developed and implemented outreach initiatives, increasing community engagement and awareness of educational resources.
  • Analyzed data trends to inform policy recommendations, driving improvements in educational outcomes across the state.
  • Led strategic planning sessions to align departmental goals with state education objectives, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Evaluated program effectiveness through feedback collection and analysis, ensuring continuous improvement in service delivery.
  • Advocated for equity in education by promoting inclusive policies that address diverse student populations' needs.
  • Served as the primary point of contact, fostering strong relationships between internal teams and external partners.
  • Coordinated multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and alignment with organizational objectives.
  • Collaborated closely with department heads to identify opportunities for process improvement initiatives.
  • Established effective communication channels between departments by organizing and facilitating cross-functional meetings.
  • Acted as the liaison between upper management and staff members, promoting positive working relationships built on trust.

Owner/Managing Partner

Sisnajini Consulting, LLC
01.2011 - 12.2019
  • Our management consultants provide specialized expertise in marketing, business development and branding. I assist consultants to develop and drive compliant programming and policies that are responsive to school site needs. As managing partner, my responsibilities focus on strategic planning facilitation, presentation, and project management.
  • Developed strategic business plans to enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction.
  • Established key partnerships to expand service offerings and drive revenue growth.
  • Streamlined project management processes, improving delivery timelines and client outcomes.
  • Implemented performance metrics to assess project effectiveness and optimize resource allocation.
  • Analyzed client feedback to refine services, ensuring alignment with market needs and expectations.
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
  • Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.

Graduate Research Assistant

Arizona State University
01.2006 - 05.2008
  • Created and maintained the Center of Indian Education��s website. Produced weekly listserv of educational events and opportunities for publishing indigenous scholarly research articles. Conducted legal research, bill tracking, law and policy analysis. Managed journal writing for submission.
  • Conducted literature reviews to support research projects and strengthen theoretical frameworks.
  • Collaborated with faculty to design and implement experimental protocols for data collection.
  • Analyzed quantitative and qualitative data using statistical software to derive meaningful insights.
  • Assisted in preparing research findings for publication, ensuring adherence to academic standards.

Yates Law Clerk

Navajo Nation Department of Justice
05.2007 - 08.2007
  • Conducted research and wrote amicus brief for senior attorney; researched uranium mining on Navajo Nation; attended community meetings on behalf of senior attorney. Hired for full time employment after Yates clerkship ended for an additional two weeks before 3L semester resumed.
  • Conducted legal research to support case preparation and strategic decision-making.
  • Drafted legal documents, ensuring compliance with Navajo Nation laws and regulations.
  • Reviewed and summarized case law, improving reference accuracy for ongoing litigation efforts.
  • Developed a reputation for professionalism and reliability, frequently entrusted with sensitive information and high-stakes assignments.

Research Assistant

Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law
01.2007 - 04.2007
  • Conducted research and wrote section outlining the origins of the Navajo Nation Common Law which was incorporated into a paper entitled “The Navajo Nation: A Three Ingredient Mix,” delivered at the World Society of Mixed Jurisdiction Jurists.
  • Conducted comprehensive legal research to support faculty and student projects.
  • Analyzed case law and synthesized findings into concise reports for academic use.

Morris K. Udall Congressional Legal Intern

Council on Environmental Quality
05.2006 - 08.2006
  • Independent research report completed for Udall internship on Native Hawaiian Recognition Bill. Wrote memorandum and conducted research for General Counsel; conducted legal research for all tribal issues concerning the National Environmental Policy Act; attended congressional hearings on behalf of senior staff members; wrote memos for federal agency cases not in compliance with NEPA.
  • Researched environmental policies and regulations to support legal compliance initiatives.
  • Drafted memos and briefs summarizing complex legal issues for senior attorneys.
  • Participated in meetings to discuss strategic approaches for policy implementation.
  • Attended court hearings, developing a deeper understanding of trial procedures and advocacy strategies.
  • Performed legal and general research, drafting memoranda, and correspondence.
  • Shadowed experienced lawyers during client meetings, gaining valuable insight into attorney-client relationships and effective communication techniques.
  • Analyzed statutes and regulations relevant to specific cases; providing additional context necessary for successful arguments.

Law Clerk

DNA People’s Legal Services, Inc.
12.2005 - 01.2006
  • Researched Navajo Nation common law issues and Navajo Nation legislative history, statutes, digests, and online resources; assisted in the editing of the Navajo Peacemaker teaching manual; compiled background information on the Navajo Peacemaker Project for future implementation by DNA; conducted comparative analysis on Navajo Peacemaking with Adjudicative Dispute Resolution processes.
  • Researched case law and statutes to support legal arguments and inform litigation strategies.
  • Assisted attorneys with case organization and administrative tasks.
  • Maintained calendars for three-person team by updating and entering court dates and meetings.


Senior Facilities Project Manager

E2open, Inc.
03.2004 - 08.2005
  • Managed construction and upgrade/renovation projects for corporate office computer lab.
  • Oversaw T1 installation in four remote offices: Singapore, Malaysia, Dallas and Austin;
  • coordinated day-to-day operations for corporate facilities for 400 employees; managed the maintenance schedule, warehousing, budget forecasts and project management on various capital improvement projects.
  • Led cross-functional teams to execute facility improvement projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
  • Developed and implemented project schedules, optimizing resource allocation and minimizing downtime.
  • Managed vendor relationships, overseeing contract negotiations and service level agreements for facility maintenance.
  • Conducted risk assessments to identify potential project challenges, proactively mitigating issues before they arose.
  • Analyzed project outcomes to inform future planning, implementing lessons learned to improve overall facilities strategy.
  • Reduced downtime during renovations by effectively communicating with stakeholders and minimizing disruptions.
  • Streamlined facilities operations by implementing efficient project management strategies.

Information Technology Petty Officer 2nd Class

United States Naval Reserves
11.1995 - 11.2003
  • Developed training database enabling entire unit to achieve 100% command readiness, resulting in a Pacific Fleet award. Analyzed, debugged and implemented Command Unit Training database and advised commanders on personnel, combat readiness, and logistical operations. Manage 20-30 sailors for past three years during Active Duty training for military exercise at Hawaiian Naval Base.
  • Supervised operational readiness of personnel and equipment during training exercises.
  • Developed and implemented safety protocols for team operations, enhancing compliance and efficiency.
  • Coordinated logistical support for deployment missions, ensuring timely resource allocation.
  • Led team initiatives to enhance operational effectiveness during maritime exercises.
  • Maintained strict security protocols while handling classified information, mitigating the risk of unauthorized access or disclosure.
  • Increased operational readiness by conducting thorough training exercises and performance evaluations for junior personnel.
  • Reduced equipment downtime through diligent maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on essential systems.
  • Improved overall unit performance by mentoring subordinates in professional development and career advancement opportunities.
  • Expedited emergency response efforts by coordinating with various departments to efficiently address critical incidents.

Localization Services Project Manager

Palm, Inc.
03.2000 - 07.2003
  • Managed international implementation of localized software projects in France, Spain, Italy, Germany and Japan; hired and managed linguistic vendors; oversaw software engineers’ work to ensure quality design; built independent team of linguistic reviewers resulting in savings of 3.6 million dollars.
  • Developed project plans, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and stakeholder expectations.
  • Collaborated with clients to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables to ensure satisfaction.
  • Analyzed project risks and devised mitigation strategies to minimize impact on timelines and resources.
  • Evaluated vendor proposals to select best-fit partners for various projects based on cost-effectiveness, quality assurance measures, and timeline commitments.
  • Provided comprehensive oversight throughout all phases of the project lifecycle resulting in seamless transitions between stages.
  • Served as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing concerns and resolving issues in a timely manner to maintain satisfaction.

Independent Consultant/Project Manager

Dovebid, Inc.
05.1999 - 05.2000
  • Assisted in the upgrading of a new software system for the corporate office; assisted in the company’s initial public offering; managed company move to new headquarters; assisted in the development of written technical documentation including internal operating procedures and user instruction.
  • Facilitated workshops that identified process inefficiencies and drove strategic improvements.
  • Established and maintained relationships with key stakeholders to enhance collaboration on strategic initiatives.
  • Supported clients during periods of transition, ensuring seamless integration of new systems or policies.
  • Leveraged on-site observation and personal interviews to identify team and individual strengths.
  • Conducted thorough reviews of operations to devise and deploy improvement strategies.
  • Devised and implemented processes and procedures to streamline operations.

Project Manager reporting directly to CFO

Robertson Stephens Investment Management
01.1999 - 05.1999
  • Consulted client and recommended priorities list for updating accounting system; defined changes to the system modules requiring software development for transitioning old accounting system into new accounting system; acted as liaison between accounting group and Solomon IV technical support; managed client’s data conversion from Oracle accounting system to Solomon IV.
  • Developed project timelines, allocating resources effectively to meet critical deadlines and enhance operational efficiency.
  • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
  • Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
  • Developed comprehensive project plans with clear timelines, milestones, and budget requirements, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
  • Delivered exceptional customer satisfaction by proactively addressing client concerns and meeting or exceeding expectations throughout the engagement process.

Education

J.D. - Federal Indian Law

Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
01-2010

B.A. - Native American Studies

University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
01.2002

Skills

  • Legal analysis
  • Legal research
  • Legal writing
  • Oral communication
  • Public speaking
  • Ethics and integrity
  • Resolving disputes
  • Multitasking
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Relationship building
  • Legal counseling
  • Negotiation

Activities

  • Morris K. Udall Congressional Intern
  • National NALSA, Vice President
  • Guardian Ad Litem, Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
  • Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity

Certification

  • Advanced Native Political Leadership Training
  • Emerge Class 2016 Training
  • Flinn-Brown Fellow

Timeline

Administrative Law Judge

AZ Department of Economic Security, Office of Appeals
02.2025 - Current

Justice of the Peace Pro Tem

Maricopa County Courts
01.2025 - Current

Justice of the Peace Moon Valley

Maricopa Justice Courts
01.2021 - 12.2024

Tribal Policy Liaison

Arizona Department of Education
01.2020 - 06.2020

Owner/Managing Partner

Sisnajini Consulting, LLC
01.2011 - 12.2019

Yates Law Clerk

Navajo Nation Department of Justice
05.2007 - 08.2007

Research Assistant

Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law
01.2007 - 04.2007

Morris K. Udall Congressional Legal Intern

Council on Environmental Quality
05.2006 - 08.2006

Graduate Research Assistant

Arizona State University
01.2006 - 05.2008

Law Clerk

DNA People’s Legal Services, Inc.
12.2005 - 01.2006

Senior Facilities Project Manager

E2open, Inc.
03.2004 - 08.2005

Localization Services Project Manager

Palm, Inc.
03.2000 - 07.2003

Independent Consultant/Project Manager

Dovebid, Inc.
05.1999 - 05.2000

Project Manager reporting directly to CFO

Robertson Stephens Investment Management
01.1999 - 05.1999

Information Technology Petty Officer 2nd Class

United States Naval Reserves
11.1995 - 11.2003

J.D. - Federal Indian Law

Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, Arizona State University

B.A. - Native American Studies

University of California, Berkeley

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