Elfina Kalemsa
Polacca,Arizona
Summary
Knowledgeable Chief Operating Officer with proven track record in driving operational excellence and leading transformative initiatives. Successfully managed cross-functional teams and streamlined processes to enhance productivity and efficiency. Demonstrated ability to implement strategic plans and foster collaborative environments to achieve organizational goals.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Interim Chief Operating Officer
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
07.2025 - Current
- Developed and implemented operational strategies to enhance housing program efficiency.
- Oversaw compliance with federal regulations and tribal policies in housing initiatives.
- Led cross-functional teams to streamline processes and improve service delivery.
- Fostered partnerships with community organizations to support housing development projects.
Interim Executive Director
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
10.2024 - 07.2025
- Led organizational strategy to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth initiatives.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive policies to streamline decision-making processes across departments.
- Fostered partnerships with stakeholders to align strategic goals and improve community engagement efforts.
- Oversaw budget management, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and financial sustainability.
Interim RS Director/Resident Service Program Manager
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
10.2016 - 10.2024
- Implemented & Administered policies, procedures, program’s rent rolls, & collections.
- Developed and implemented policies to improve operational efficiency within the housing authority.
- Oversaw budget management and allocation for multiple housing programs, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
Resident Service Specialist
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
06.2013 - 10.2016
- Managing NAHASDA, LIHTC, and HIP Programs adhering to policies and regulations.
Secretary II/ Development * Maintenance Departments
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
10.2009 - 06.2013
- Office administration for Development and Maintenance Departments.
Medical Support Assistant – Emergency Room
DHHS Phoenix Area Indian Health Service
10.2006 - 08.2007
- Maintain patient information for billing purposes and medical records.
Health Unit Coordinator
Maricopa Integrated Health System
06.2004 - 10.2006
- Unit administration for Surgical Intensive Care Unit.
Education
Certificate of Completion - Health Service Management
Gateway Community College
Phoenix, Arizona05.2006
Certificate of Completion - Health Unit Coordinating
Gateway Community College
Phoenix, Arizona05.2004
Dual Enrollment Classes - undefined
Northland Pioneer College
Phoenix, Arizona05.2003
High School - undefined
Hopi Jr./Sr. High School
Keams Canyon, Arizona05.2003
Skills
- Policy management for NAHASDA and related programs
- Skilled in high-pressure environments
- Strategic decision making
- Team leadership
- Flexible problem-solving
- Regulatory adherence
- Collaborative teamwork across functions
- Strategic policy formulation
- Adaptable to change
- Cross-functional board engagement
Timeline
Interim Chief Operating Officer
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
07.2025 - Current
Interim Executive Director
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
10.2024 - 07.2025
Interim RS Director/Resident Service Program Manager
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
10.2016 - 10.2024
Resident Service Specialist
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
06.2013 - 10.2016
Secretary II/ Development * Maintenance Departments
Hopi Tribal Housing Authority
10.2009 - 06.2013
Medical Support Assistant – Emergency Room
DHHS Phoenix Area Indian Health Service
10.2006 - 08.2007
Health Unit Coordinator
Maricopa Integrated Health System
06.2004 - 10.2006
Certificate of Completion - Health Unit Coordinating
Gateway Community College
Dual Enrollment Classes - undefined
Northland Pioneer College
High School - undefined
Hopi Jr./Sr. High School
Certificate of Completion - Health Service Management
Gateway Community College
Achievements
LIHTC Haven Professional of the Year (2019), National Tax Credit Compliance Professional (NTCCP), 3.5 GPA Hopi Jr./Sr. High School (Top 10 of graduating class), Reigned as Miss Hopi, ambassador of the Hopi Tribe 2003-2004