Georgia Penaloza
Elizabeth,NJ
Summary
Results-driven Executive Assistant and Operations Manager with extensive experience in supporting leadership and optimizing administrative processes. Expertise in streamlining workflows and implementing effective procedures to enhance operational efficiency. Proven ability to drive improvements across office and HR functions, contributing to overall organizational success.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Executive Assistant & Payroll Operations Manager
Aptimized
Wayne, New Jersey
12.2024 - Current
- Served as a strategic partner to executive leadership while overseeing payroll and people operations, supporting both day-to-day execution and long-term organizational goals.
- Managed complex executive calendars, meetings, communications, and travel arrangements, ensuring priorities were aligned, and deadlines met.
- Owned end-to-end payroll processing for over 200 employees, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payroll across multiple pay cycles.
- Administered payroll systems and HRIS platforms, including employee onboarding, offboarding, data maintenance, and audits.
- Acted as a primary point of contact for employee payroll, benefits, and compensation inquiries, maintaining confidentiality and accuracy.
- Prepared executive presentations, reports, and operational documentation for leadership meetings, audits, and company-wide initiatives.
- Supported company operations through document management, contract administration (MSAs, SOWs, NDAs), policy oversight, and continuous process improvement.
Photography Assistant
Megan Maloy Photography
Jersey City, New Jersey
01.2024 - 12.2024
- Coordinated logistics and scheduling for on-site projects and client engagements.
- Executed lighting setups and image composition to enhance visual storytelling.
- Styled models, interiors, and food props to elevate aesthetic quality.
- Collaborated with photographer to ensure efficient workflow during sessions.
- Assisted with marketing and administrative tasks, including email communication and document preparation.
- Updated website content to reflect current marketing initiatives.
- Worked cross-functionally to address business and client needs effectively.
Studio Manager
Fire Me Up Studio
Cranford, New Jersey
01.2020 - 12.2024
- Collaborated with CEO to manage daily operations and administrative priorities.
- Oversaw calendar management, employee scheduling, and event coordination.
- Managed incoming inquiries, ensuring timely and professional responses.
- Maintained purchase tracking, invoicing support, and high-volume inventory systems.
- Conducted interviews, onboarded, and supported staff across various roles.
- Developed and implemented organizational systems to enhance operational efficiency.
Education
B.A. - Visual Arts
Montclair State University
Montclair, NJ05-2024
Skills
- HRIS & Payroll Systems Management - Rippling
- Employee Onboarding & Offboarding
- Benefits Administration (401k, Health Insurance)
- Vendor & Client Relationship Management
- Contract & Legal Document Management (MSAs, SOWs, NDAs)
- Document Management & Recordkeeping
- Executive Support & Calendar Management
- Travel Coordination & Logistics
- Event Coordination & Staff Scheduling - WhenIWork
- Talent Management & Staff Training
- Report Preparation & Executive Presentations
- Microsoft 365
- Financial Administration (Invoicing, Purchase Tracking)
- Process Improvement & Operational Efficiency
Certification
Payroll Administration - Rippling
Languages
Spanish
Full Professional
Timeline
Executive Assistant & Payroll Operations Manager
Aptimized
12.2024 - Current
Photography Assistant
Megan Maloy Photography
01.2024 - 12.2024
Studio Manager
Fire Me Up Studio
01.2020 - 12.2024
B.A. - Visual Arts
Montclair State University