Gemma Sawa

Manages enterprise level executive support to Oncology Development by partnering closely with stakeholders to ensure comprehensive action plans are met and executed. Oversees a team of (10) executive assistants by coaching, training, and mentoring group for best practices. Implements a well-defined administrative support model to enhance operational efficiency and reduce administrative burdens on executive stakeholders. Successful in building relationships and championing cross-functional collaboration within business unit. Provides strategic guidance by proposing solutions which align with company culture and corporate values.

• Manages team of 10 executive assistants, who provide administrative support to executive team. Group is responsible for the overall coordination of SVP & VP calendars, expense reports and travel arrangements.
• Manages the execution of special projects, deliverables and proposes changes to business model where necessary.
• Streamlines and manages ways of working by partnering closely and soliciting feedback of key stakeholders.
• Manages centralized platform for sharing pertinent information and updates within oncology department by curating content for website and newsletter.

Provided proactive case management of HR related queries and transactional requests through various channels such as telephone, E-mail and Chat. Cases ranged from simple to complex inquiries, which required processing transactions through Workday (onboarding, promotions, secondments, salary changes, leave requests), liaising with interdepartmental stakeholders and providing timely resolution to all inquiries. Regularly mentored and trained staff on employee and manager self-service tools through tutorials and training sessions. Interpreted and applied the appropriate people policies, while keeping GSKs stakeholders (managers, directors, executives etc.) informed. Escalated all complex matters to the appropriate SMEs (subject matter experts) until inquiry was resolved. Continuously remained cognizant of all GSK's policies and procedures and their revisions while seeking to understand the scope of all inquiries during initial contact to mitigate any processing errors. Seamlessly adapted to rapidly changing environment and ensured all SLAs (Service Level Agreements) were met.

• Collaborated with HR central functions (Compensation, Payroll, Benefits, Recruiting) to streamline processes and execute strategic initiatives

• Partnered with leaders on HR and business functions using consultative approach to proactively identify and address issues and concerns.

• Partnered closely with all levels of management to execute complex organizational restructures.

Oversaw human resource operations within organization, which provided support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Delivered comprehensive oversight of entire human resource lifecycle for diverse team, comprising over 500 employees, ranging from C-Level Executives down to 1099 and PRN positions. Assured streamlined and efficient hiring process, attracting top talent to organization by closely monitoring recruitment efforts and applicant tracking system. Ensured program compliance for state audits conducted by ODP and OLTL to help agency in maintaining regulatory standards and adhering to applicable laws and regulations. Improved efficiency of audit processes by transitioning all physical files to digital records. Utilized range of HR programs, including Chronotek, Paychex, E-Verify, and Equifax to raise efficiency and accuracy of personnel management tasks.

● Developed open door policy as well as encouraged employee input, resulting in creation of highly engaged workforce, maximized morale, and increased employee retention.

●Provided guidance at all levels of management to address HR related issues and achieve favorable outcomes.

● Managed benefits administration as well as oversaw healthcare enrollments, FMLA, unemployment, and workman's compensation claims.

● Established clear policies and procedures in alignment with industry standards and organizational goals by regularly revising and updating company handbook.

●Guided managers and employees on company policies, programs, benefits and salary administration

●Managed employee grievances and disputes in timely and professional manner, by finding constructive solutions.

Contributed to overall security and safety of government officials by providing daily administrative support to FPS (Federal Protective Service). Supported FPS in responding to crises and mitigating potential threats to public safety by managing administrative tasks during national emergencies, such as Hurricane Sandy and Boston Marathon Bombing. Leveraged chain of command to guarantee safety/security of president and prevent potential threats.

● Successfully trained and mentored new employees while providing comprehensive administrative oversight of program.

● Maintained Secret Government Clearance

● Demonstrated exceptional organizational skills by accurately documenting FPS tracking statistics into system and effectively prioritizing multiple tasks simultaneously.

● Safeguarded highly confidential information, including national headlines

● Acted as primary point of contact for electronic and telephonic communication on behalf of government agencies, including IRS, SSA, FDA, NARA, USMS, ATF, VA, DOL, DOD, FEMA, TSA, USCG, USCIS, and DOJ.