Donna Dawson
Palm Harbor
Summary
Dynamic Human Resources Specialist with a proven 34-year track record at the Department of Veterans Affairs, excelling in project management and complex problem-solving. Recognized for enhancing system performance and delivering exceptional customer service. Proficient in software testing and adept at fostering team collaboration to drive successful outcomes in high-stakes environments.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Resources Specialist (Information Systems)
Department of Veterans Affairs
Palm Harbor
10.2017 - Current
- Provided technical support and troubleshooting for software issues.
- Planned, tested and supported high-availability infrastructures.
- Monitored system performance and identified areas for improvement.
- Diagnosed, troubleshot, and recommended the resolution of system problems.
- Gathered data pertaining to customer needs to identify, predict and evaluate system and network requirements.
- Coordinated with vendors and company personnel to facilitate purchases.
- Evaluated and interpreted service requests, issuing recommendations to assist planning, organization and expansion of large-scale projects.
- Designed and tested computer system software.
- Coordinated with vendors to resolve software problems within specified timeframes.
- Fielded user requests and queries to deliver troubleshooting services and implement corrective actions.
- Conducted testing of software and systems to ensure quality and reliability.
- Recognized by management for providing exceptional customer service.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
Tax Specialist
H & R Block Tax Services
Clearwater
01.2024 - 04.2025
- Utilized tax software to efficiently process returns and identify potential deductions and credits for clients.
- Developed and maintained professional relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals.
- Interviewed clients to obtain additional information on taxable income and deductible expenses and allowances.
- Educated clients on the implications of tax laws and their financial decisions.
- Maintained strict confidentiality of client information in accordance with privacy laws and regulations.
HR Specialist (Recruitment & Placement)
Department of Veterans Affairs
Tampa
02.2009 - 10.2017
- Informed job applicants of duties and responsibilities, compensation, and benefits.
- Assisted in onboarding of new hires by providing orientation materials and training sessions.
- Tracked and analyzed recruitment metrics to identify areas for improvement.
- Advised hiring managers on interview techniques and selection criteria.
- Coordinated and attended career fairs and recruitment events to source candidates.
- Explained job duties, compensation and benefits to potential candidates.
- Referred suitable candidates to relevant departments for additional assessment.
- Developed recruitment strategies to achieve required staffing levels for assigned requisitions.
- Interpreted and explained human resources policies, procedures or regulations.
- Provided ongoing support throughout the entire recruitment life cycle processes.
Tax Associate
H & R BLOCK
Birmingham
01.2003 - 04.2010
- Utilized tax software to efficiently process returns and identify potential deductions and credits for clients.
- Advised clients on tax planning strategies to minimize liabilities and maximize returns.
- Responsible for taking clients’ payments for services
- I assisted as an instructor of tax-related classes for incumbent tax associates during the off-season, which were required for continued employment and advancement within the company.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of all current developments in taxation law, regulation, policy or practice.
- Researched complex tax issues in order to provide accurate advice and guidance.
- Conducted client interviews to gather necessary documentation and information for tax preparation.
- Advised clients to comply with IRS regulations and meet state and federal tax obligations.
- Corrected previously filed tax returns to amend errors or claim additional deductions and credits.
- Advised clients on strategies for minimizing their tax liability within legal parameters.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing client concerns and questions promptly.
- Attended continuing education courses related to taxation topics.
Accounting & Lead Civilian Payroll Technician
Department, Affairs
Birmingham
06.1995 - 08.2008
- Assisted employees with questions regarding their paychecks.
- Processed new employee paperwork and entered information into payroll system.
- Verified accuracy of timekeeping systems, payroll documents, and other related records.
- Processed salary changes stemming from merit increases, promotions, bonuses and pay adjustments.
- Responded to employee inquiries regarding payroll and timekeeping.
- Processed garnishments according to applicable laws and regulations.
- Maintained up-to-date payroll records by recording employee exemptions, transfers and resignations.
- Recorded adjustments to previous pay-related errors.
- Handled accounts payable and receivable, including invoicing and payment processing.
- Maintained accurate financial records and documentation in compliance with company policies.
Education
Master's degree - MBA, Management
Auburn University
Auburn, AL, United States12.2008
Bachelor's degree - Criminal Justice, Sociology
University of Alabama At Birmingham
Birmingham, AL, United States05.2002
Associate's degree - General Business
Jefferson State Community College
Birmingham, AL, United States05.1999
Skills
- Ten-key data entry, 10,000 KPH
- Touch typing, 52 WPM
- Project management expertise
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
- Software testing
- Team collaboration
- PeopleSoft HRMS
- Complex Problem-solving
Achievements
- Effected the correction to the modification of part-time employees' military leave balances.
- Possess a combined total of 15 years experience in the HR and Payroll environment as they exist in PAID.
- Successfully gathered and assembled data required to convert 468 DON employees into the VA.
Availability
Permanent, Telework, Full-time
Job Related Training
Federal Pay Setting, 07/01/12
Desired Locations
ALL, Florida, United States
Timeline
Tax Specialist
H & R Block Tax Services
01.2024 - 04.2025
Human Resources Specialist (Information Systems)
Department of Veterans Affairs
10.2017 - Current
HR Specialist (Recruitment & Placement)
Department of Veterans Affairs
02.2009 - 10.2017
Tax Associate
H & R BLOCK
01.2003 - 04.2010
Accounting & Lead Civilian Payroll Technician
Department, Affairs
06.1995 - 08.2008
Master's degree - MBA, Management
Auburn University
Bachelor's degree - Criminal Justice, Sociology
University of Alabama At Birmingham
Associate's degree - General Business
Jefferson State Community College
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