Fred Skolnick
Summary
Accomplished operations management professional bringing over Forty years of experience and advanced abilities in team building and workflow improvements. Innovative and analytical with excellent project management skills. Capable Office Administrator with outstanding knowledge of effective office coordination with commitment to effective collaboration. Skilled at reorganizing offices for superior functionality. Administrative leader offering experience prioritizing and delegating administrative tasks to drive goal achievement. Proficient in schedule coordination, resource allocation and office supply inventory management. Dedicated to training and mentoring top talent while cultivating a productive work culture. Resourceful Deputy Chief dedicated to maintaining order and public safety. Expertise in developing and administering department budget, evaluating and motivating personnel and establishing goals and objectives for department. Experienced Office Management and Administration Professional experienced optimizing productivity, efficiency and service quality across various environments. Highly dependable, ethical and reliable support specialist and leader that blends advanced organizational, technical and business acumen. Works effectively with cross-functional teams in ensuring operational and service excellence. Proven track record of maintaining efficient office operations. Expertise in scheduling and coordinating meetings, managing travel and expense reports, and transcribing minutes. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.
Overview
55
55
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Deputy Chief of Agriculture Cargo Control and Enforcement
DHS-US Customs and Border Protection
01.2014 - Current
- Supervise 50 CBP Agriculture Specialists and Technicians
- Initiate and Support Special Operations to deter smuggling of Agricultural Commodities in The Cargo Environment (including Cargo Consolidators)
- Oversight of Budget, Assignments, Disciplinary Actions, Training, Field Inspections, and Automated Entry Unit
- Inventory and purchase of large and small ticket items to accomplish agency mission: IT Equipment, Copiers, Furniture, Office Supplies.
- Interagency Cooperation with US Customs Enforcement, USDA, US Fish and Wildlife Service, FDA and CDC
- Data reporting and analysis to determine smuggling trends
- Championed diversity initiatives within the organization by promoting inclusive hiring practices.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments for potential projects or initiatives before moving forward with implementation efforts.
- Served as a mentor to junior staff members, providing guidance on best practices for professional growth and development.
- Streamlined workflows for increased efficiency, reducing administrative burdens on staff members.
Deputy Chief Agriculture Specialist
DHS-US Customs and Border Protection
04.2004 - 05.2014
- Rewrote and updated Local policies and procedures for CBP Agriculture Operations
- Supervised 120 CBP Agriculture Specialists and First Line Supervisors
- Attended conferences and meetings with other law enforcement officers to discuss Segways for smuggling of Agricultural Contraband
- Featured in National Geographic 'To Catch a Smuggler': Smuggling of Exotic Birds
- Assisted Photographer Taryn Simon with technical assistance in special project featuring 'Smuggling of Contraband.' Oversight of Budget, Disciplinary Actions, and Assignment of Personnel
- Recorded, analyzed and gathered data on Agriculture Smuggling Patterns in The Passenger Environment
- Liaison between USDA, US Fish and Wildlife and CDC.
- Cultivated a positive work atmosphere by encouraging open communication channels among team members at all levels of the organization.
- Managed budgets, resources, and personnel to ensure optimal allocation of resources in alignment with organizational goals.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments for potential projects or initiatives before moving forward with implementation efforts.
- Provided oversight and guidance on high-priority projects, ensuring their successful completion within budget and timeline constraints.
- Promoted a safe work environment by establishing comprehensive safety procedures and conducting routine inspections.
- Built strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to enhance collaboration and drive positive outcomes.
- Facilitated cross-departmental cooperation to achieve shared objectives more efficiently than previously possible.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations through regular audits, reviews, and policy updates.
Deputy Chief Agriculture Specialist-CBP
DHS US CUSTOMS And BORDER Protection
03.2003 - 04.2004
- Conducted thorough risk assessments for potential projects or initiatives before moving forward with implementation efforts.
- Promoted a safe work environment by establishing comprehensive safety procedures and conducting routine inspections.
- Evaluated existing programs for effectiveness in meeting organizational goals before recommending changes or adaptations as necessary.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations through regular audits, reviews, and policy updates.
USDA APHIS PPQ Plant Inspection Station
USDA-APHIS PPQ
04.1996 - 02.2003
- Evaluated Plant and Departmental Permits to insure Import/Export Compliance of Restricted Plants and Propagules
- Prepared correspondence, reports of inspections or investigations and recommendations for action
- Collaborated with team members to achieve target results
- Resolved conflicts and negotiated mutually beneficial agreements between parties
- Inspection of Propagative Materials (Plants, Tree Seeds, Meristem Cultures) Import/Export
- Identification of Plant Pests: Insects and Pathogens
- Communication with Brokers, Importers, and Scientific Institutions for Import of Plants and Propagules, Plant Collections, Departmental Permit Material
- Required extensive knowledge and experience with Rare and Exotic Plants: Orchids, Bromeliads, Succulents (Co Enforced CITES/ESA Regulations with The US Fish and Wildlife Service).
- Participated in ongoing training sessions to stay current on evolving regulations and best practices within the industry.
- Performed routine inspections of facility equipment, identifying potential maintenance needs before they became critical issues.
- Promoted positive working relationships with coworkers through clear communication and teamwork.
- Maintained a professional and courteous demeanor when interacting with USDA inspectors, facilitating open communication and fostering positive relationships.
Plant Protection and Quarantine Officer
Plant Protection Service Of Israel
10.1993 - 02.1996
- Enforcement of Plant Quarantine Laws for Import/Export: Israel
- Inspection of Plant Nurseries for Export to Europe and US
- Recognition of Plant Insect Pests and Diseases
- Issuance of Plant and Seed Import Permits.
- Attended personnel meetings and training sessions to improve skills and learn new policies and procedures.
- Mentored junior staff members, helping them develop their skills and advance in their careers.
- Enhanced communication between team members by organizing regular meetings and fostering open dialogue.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to address complex issues, leading to more efficient problem-solving processes.
- Drove innovation within the department by promoting creative thinking and supporting new initiatives.
- Generated reports detailing findings and recommendations.
USDA Plant/Animal Quarantine Officer
USDA APHIS PPQ
05.1982 - 02.1993
- Regulated Import of Animal and Plant Products under 7 & 9 CFR to prevent entry of Animal and Plant Diseases and Pests in The Port of NY and JFK International Airport
- Clearance of Passenger and Conveyances Recognition of Plant Pests (Insect/Diseases), Inspection of Agricultural and Miscellaneous Cargo, and Passenger Baggage.
Animal Caretaker/Greenhouse Caretaker (Work Study)
SUNY@Binghamton
06.1974 - 06.1975
- Minimized animal injury risk by monitoring behaviors and eliminating safety hazards
- Kept animals clean and free of contaminants to promote optimal health
- Observed animal details such as size, condition, behavior and eating habits and documented data charts
- Feeding and Cleaning of Lab Animals and Cage Enclosures
- Greenhouse Maintenance of approximately 1000 Plants of all types:(Watering, Fertilization, Propagation)
- Provided daily nutrition to animals by preparing and distributing appropriate food portions according to species-specific needs.
- Fed and watered animals to provide necessary nutrients and keep pets healthy.
- Cleaned animal enclosures maintain clean living spaces for pets and prevent spread of disease.
- Conducted regular health checks on animals under care, noting any changes in appearance or behavior that could indicate potential issues.
- Handled a variety of different species safely and confidently during routine care tasks such as feeding, grooming, medication administration, and enclosure maintenance.
Marine Fish Keeper and Retail Sales
Aquarium Stock Company
06.1970 - 01.1972
- Retail Consultant and Sales for Fresh Water and Marine Tropical Fish, Plants and Invertebrates
- Water Testing and Maintenance of Fresh and Salt Water Aquaria
- Marine Fish and Invertebrate Specialist: Feeding, Acclimation, Maintained Filtration and Water Chemistry.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Volunteer Mammal Keeper/Aquarist
Coney Island Aquarium
10.1969 - 06.1970
- Observed animal details such as size, condition, behavior and eating habits and documented data
- Monitored animals for signs of disease, illness or injury and communicated concerns to owners
- Contributed to client retention by consistently providing outstanding customer service to both clients and pets.
- Collaborated with veterinary staff to provide comprehensive health care, ensuring swift treatment and recovery for ailing mammals.
- Developed strong relationships with animals through trust-building exercises, promoting positive behavioral responses during training sessions.
- Educated guests regarding conservation efforts and the importance of preserving natural habitats for various mammal species.
- Kept animals clean and free of contaminants to promote optimal health.
- Monitored animal health to quickly recognize signs of illness and injury, seeking necessary medical attention.
- Monitored animals for behavioral problems and signs of health issues.
- Boosted visitor engagement with interactive presentations on marine life and conservation efforts.
- Educated the public about marine ecosystems through engaging guided tours and informative Q&A sessions.
- Participated in field collection and transport of specimens for exhibits.
- Documented animals' weight, size and condition in computer system for review by senior staff.
Aquarist
Marine Tropical Imports
03.1969 - 11.1969
- Assisted with daily animal diet preparations and water quality testing
- Maintained and operated aquarium life support systems
- Participated in field collection and transport of specimens for exhibits
- Monitored animal behavior and completed examinations to identify illnesses, injuries or potential diseases
- Monitored animals for behavioral problems and signs of health issues
- Acclimation of Fish and Corals to Wholesale Aquaria for Sale to Retail Stores and Public Aquaria.
- Maintained optimal water quality by conducting regular testing and adjusting treatment protocols as needed.
- Evaluated current husbandry practices regularly, recommending updates or adjustments based on industry advancements.
Education
Associate of Science - Animal Sciences
SUNY@Farmingdale
Farmingdale, Long Island06.1978
Bachelor of Arts - Biology/Physical Anthropology
SUNY Binghamton
Binghamton, NY01.1975
Skills
- Budget Management
- Staff Development
- Long-range Planning
- Work Scheduling
- Public Relations
- Database administration
- Staff Management
- Scheduling
- Marine Fish and Invertebrate Taxonomy and Care
- Horticultural Sciences
- Exotic Bird and Reptilian care
- Officer Training
- Corrective action plans
- Organizational Development
- Law enforcement programs
- Interagency cooperation
- Tactical Operations
- Labor Relations
- Customer Service
- Team Leadership
- Documentation and Recordkeeping
- Employee Supervision
- Data Entry
- Handling Complaints
- Office Management
- Coaching and Mentoring
- Administration and Operations
- Appointment Scheduling
- Goal Setting
- Scheduling and calendar management
- Strategic Planning
- Schedule Management
- Staff Training
- Staff Development and Training
- Inventory Management
- Project Management
- Regulatory Compliance
- Budget Administration
- Clerical Staff Oversight
Affiliations
- American Littoral Society
- Cage Bird Society
- Bromeliad Society
- Brooklyn Aquarium Clubs
- Reef 2 Reef
Reef Keeping Experience
50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Hobbies and Interests
- Zoology
- Exotic Horticulture
- Marine Reef Keeping
Certification
Federal Pesticide Application License-1979-2003
New York State Milk Testing Certification-1978
Defensive Driving Instructor Certification-1980-1987
SCUBA-PADI, NAUI, YMCA-1969 and 1984 respectively.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
French
Limited Working
Hebrew
Full Professional
Dutch
Elementary
Spanish
Elementary
Timeline
Deputy Chief of Agriculture Cargo Control and Enforcement
DHS-US Customs and Border Protection
01.2014 - Current
Deputy Chief Agriculture Specialist
DHS-US Customs and Border Protection
04.2004 - 05.2014
Deputy Chief Agriculture Specialist-CBP
DHS US CUSTOMS And BORDER Protection
03.2003 - 04.2004
USDA APHIS PPQ Plant Inspection Station
USDA-APHIS PPQ
04.1996 - 02.2003
Plant Protection and Quarantine Officer
Plant Protection Service Of Israel
10.1993 - 02.1996
USDA Plant/Animal Quarantine Officer
USDA APHIS PPQ
05.1982 - 02.1993
Animal Caretaker/Greenhouse Caretaker (Work Study)
SUNY@Binghamton
06.1974 - 06.1975
Marine Fish Keeper and Retail Sales
Aquarium Stock Company
06.1970 - 01.1972
Associate of Science - Animal Sciences
SUNY@Farmingdale
Bachelor of Arts - Biology/Physical Anthropology
SUNY Binghamton
Federal Pesticide Application License-1979-2003
New York State Milk Testing Certification-1978
Defensive Driving Instructor Certification-1980-1987
SCUBA-PADI, NAUI, YMCA-1969 and 1984 respectively.
Volunteer Mammal Keeper/Aquarist
Coney Island Aquarium
10.1969 - 06.1970
Aquarist
Marine Tropical Imports
03.1969 - 11.1969
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