Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Certification
Languages
Timeline

Debra Taylor

Summary

Top-notch versatile Executive Director with a proven track record of success leading and growing organizations. Strong background in supervisory, leadership, professional development, strategic planning, problem-solving, crisis management, advocacy, financial management, and stakeholder and team development.

Passionate about managing and overseeing implementation of company's daily operations. Firm decision-maker with excellent communication and organizational skills. Professional with solid experience in leadership roles, good understanding of business principles, project management, focused on promoting mission and increasing effectiveness of key programs. Recognized for successfully collaborating with management to develop work plans, financials and strategies. Collaborative and dedicated to building and leading talented and motivated individuals.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Executive Director

Columbus Housing Authority
Columbus, MS
2015.10 - Current
  • Increased organizational efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing new systems.
  • Develops strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to expand the organization''s reach and influence.
  • Manages a diverse team of professionals, fosters a collaborative work environment for increased productivity.
  • Oversees financial management, ensures fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
  • Secures critical resources for program development and expansion.
  • Spearheads new program initiatives to address unmet community needs and advance the organization''s mission.
  • Guides staff through periods of organizational change to maintain morale and engagement during transitions.
  • Negotiates contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms while adhering to budgetary constraints.
  • Advocates for policy changes at both local and national levels to further support the organization''s goals and objectives.
  • Forges strong relationships with board members, provides regular updates on organizational progress and solicits their expertise when needed.
  • Establishes performance benchmarks for each department in alignment with the organization''s strategic priorities.
  • Presents regularly at conferences or industry events showcasing the organization's accomplishments
  • Collaborates with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
  • Works closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
  • Establishes relationships with donors, government officials and other organizations to secure funding and support for organization.
  • Sets organizational goals and objectives to guide and direct company focus and achieve mission fulfillment.
  • Monitors compliance with laws and regulations to protect organization from legal liabilities and penalties.
  • Represents organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
  • Builds and maintained strong company teams by hiring and training qualified staff to create positive and productive work environments.
  • Manages financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
  • Represented organization at industry conferences and events.

Resident Services Coordinator

Columbus Housing Authority
10.2002 - 03.2015
  • Planned, developed, and implemented educational programs for residents to improve their quality of life and promote self sufficiency
  • Enhanced resident satisfaction by addressing and resolving concerns in a timely manner.
  • Streamlined communication between residents and management through effective coordination of meetings and events.
  • Improved overall community atmosphere by organizing social, recreational, and educational programs for residents.
  • Promoted resident safety by conducting regular property inspections to identify potential hazards or maintenance issues.
  • Facilitated conflict resolution among residents, resulting in a more harmonious living environment.
  • Coordinated with local agencies to provide essential services for residents, such as healthcare, transportation, and financial assistance.
  • Developed strong relationships with community partners to enhance available resources for residents.
  • Managed accurate record-keeping systems to track resident interactions, incidents, and program participation effectively.
  • Assisted in the development of annual budgets for community events and programs while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
  • Implemented innovative strategies to increase resident engagement in community activities and initiatives.
  • Provided compassionate support during times of crisis or personal difficulty for individual residents as needed.
  • Served as a liaison between property management staff and residents to address concerns effectively before escalating issues higher up in the organization.
  • Continuously sought professional development opportunities in order to stay current on industry trends and best practices while implementing new strategies within the community.
  • Assisted residents with transitioning into new living environment and maintained strong relationships with residents.
  • Enforced policies and safety standards
  • Coordinated activities and events to create safe, positive and inclusive environment.
  • Promoted culture of respect and understanding among students.
  • Helped develop and implement programs to foster community growth and development.
  • Supervised student workers and interns and provided feedback on performance.

Education

Master of Science -

Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS
05.2002

Bachelor of Science - Education - Emphasis in Family Life Studies

Mississippi University For Women, Columbus, MS
05.1992
  • 3.5 GPA
  • Extracurricular Activities: played basketball
  • Elected Vice President for Student Athletic Association and Student Government Association in 1991

Skills

  • Quality Control
  • Stakeholder Relations
  • Financial Management
  • Fundraising
  • Human Resources
  • Staff Management
  • Report Compilation
  • Contract Management
  • Community Engagement
  • Case Management
  • Operations Management
  • Strategic Planning
  • Leadership Development
  • Relationship Building
  • Outreach Programs
  • Human Resources Management
  • Budgeting and Financial Management
  • Team Bonding
  • Public Speaking
  • Partnership Development
  • Government Relations
  • Program Leadership
  • Resident Satisfaction
  • Project Management
  • Social Work
  • Client Services
  • Crisis Management
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Board Relations
  • Decision Making
  • Budgeting and Forecasting
  • Policy Formulation
  • Training and Development
  • Problem Solving
  • Public Relations
  • Customer Service
  • Community Outreach
  • Risk Management
  • Succession Planning
  • Service Delivery Oversight

Accomplishments

Awards and accolades include:

Public Relations Practitioner of the Year-2005

Humanitarian Award- 2009

Kentucky Colonel Community Service Award- 2010

Outstanding Community Service Award-2014

Collaborative Partner of the Year-2017

Citizen of the Year Award-2023

Affiliations

  • Serves on various Boards and Committees within the community

Certification

Certified Public Housing Manager

Languages

American Sign Language

Timeline

Executive Director - Columbus Housing Authority
2015.10 - Current
Resident Services Coordinator - Columbus Housing Authority
10.2002 - 03.2015
Mississippi State University - Master of Science,
Mississippi University For Women - Bachelor of Science, Education - Emphasis in Family Life Studies
Debra Taylor