Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Certification
Additional Information
Timeline
Generic

Mrs. Kiara Steater

Working Remotely,SC

Summary

  • Dynamic and results-driven Senior Manager with over 15years of progressive experience in business development, capture management, and proposal oversight within the Government Health Solutions sector.
  • Proven track record of managing multi-million dollar bid pursuits, crafting compelling customer propositions, and leading cross-functional teams to successful contract awards.
  • Exceptional expertise in developing strategic sales approaches, guiding complex negotiations, and collaborating with stakeholders to achieve outstanding results.
  • Adept in navigating regulatory environments and aligning organizational goals with client needs to drive growth in highly competitive landscapes.


Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Senior Manager - Bid Management

Extraordinary Headhunters LLC
06.2018 - Current

Core Responsibilities:

  • Reduced costs, optimized resource allocation, and improved efficiency in managing projects.
  • Consistently met or exceeded annual performance targets set by senior leadership.
  • Consolidated vendors and renegotiated contracts to optimize costs.
  • Implemented innovative solutions to overcome challenges, leading to enhanced productivity levels.
  • Spearheaded change management efforts for seamless adoption of new systems or processes among employees.
  • Optimized supply chain operations, ensuring timely delivery of products and reducing inventory holding costs.
  • Negotiated high-value contracts with new suppliers, securing better pricing and terms, which improved profit margins.

Executive Board Member

Daniel's Christian School
08.2008 - 07.2023

Core Responsibilities:

  • Provided guidance on talent management strategies to attract top talent, retain high performers, and develop future leaders.
  • Established effective communication channels for seamless collaboration between board members, executives, and employees.
  • Built strong relationships with key stakeholders to advance organizational interests and secure essential partnerships.
  • Improved overall company performance through proactive engagement in executive decision-making processes.
  • Increased shareholder value through diligent monitoring of financial performance metrics.
  • Oversaw complex multimillion-dollar projects from inception to completion while ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
  • Achieved board objectives by strategically aligning resources and initiatives with organizational goals.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements by promoting adherence to relevant laws, policies, and industry best practices.
  • Influenced positive change across the organization by driving cultural transformation initiatives that aligned with strategic priorities.
  • Served as advocate and ambassador for organization by fully engaging, identifying, and securing resources and partnerships to advance mission.

Procurement Manager

Moore Legal Solutions - Law Firm
01.2015 - 01.2023
  • Resolved invoice and payment issues to facilitate prompt payment to suppliers.
  • Drove continuous improvement initiatives within the procurement function by identifying areas for optimization and proposing actionable recommendations.
  • Prepared and presented reports to management on purchasing trends and cost savings to aid in decision making.
  • Developed strong relationships with key suppliers, resulting in improved communication, better pricing, and reliable delivery schedules.
  • Spearheaded change management initiatives within the procurement department, leading to improved agility and responsiveness in meeting business needs.
  • Streamlined procurement processes for increased efficiency and cost savings through the implementation of digital tools and automation.
  • Monitored and managed procurement budget to control costs.
  • Negotiated complex corporate procurement contracts by working closely with internal and external contacts.
  • Reduced procurement costs by implementing strategic sourcing initiatives and negotiating favorable contracts with suppliers.
  • Improved inventory management by implementing demand forecasting techniques and optimizing reorder points for critical items.
  • Managed supply chain process, from order placement to delivery, to facilitate on-time and accurate fulfillment.

Talent Marketing Director

BLD Brands
02.2019 - 10.2019

Core Responsibilities:

  • Deployed well-coordinated campaigns, events and public relations strategies to promote brand.
  • Managed marketing budget for maximum ROI.
  • Boosted brand awareness and generated leads while managing internal and external marketing campaigns and programs.
  • Created content and promotional materials to drive engagement and conversions.
  • Managed annual marketing budget, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources for maximum impact.
  • Increased customer engagement by developing and implementing multi-channel marketing strategy tailored to diverse audience segments.
  • Enhanced team productivity and campaign output by integrating advanced marketing automation tools.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop innovative product launches and promotions.
  • Developed robust analytics framework to measure and report on campaign performance, guiding strategic adjustments and improvements.
  • Continually maintained and improved company's reputation and positive image in markets served.

Senior Recruiting Manager - Temporary Contract

Integrity Staffing Solutions Inc.
01.2018 - 06.2018

Core Responsibilities:

  • Negotiated lucrative contracts with suppliers and vendors, securing favorable pricing and terms for the company.
  • Led cross-functional teams to successfully execute complex projects, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.
  • Delivered compelling sales presentations to prospective clients, highlighting the unique value proposition of our products and services.
  • Drove revenue growth by identifying and securing new business opportunities in untapped markets.
  • Diversified revenue streams by exploring and launching into new geographic markets.
  • Negotiated favorable terms in partnership agreements, ensuring long-term profitability and stability.
  • Led cross-functional teams to launch marketing campaigns, resulting in increased brand awareness.
  • Achieved staffing objectives through strategic and tactical planning, program management expertise and knowledge of effective recruitment, interviewing and training procedures.
  • Negotiated competitive compensation packages for new hires, balancing budget constraints with market rates to attract top talent.
  • Enhanced employee retention by implementing comprehensive onboarding programs and providing ongoing support to new hires.
  • Developed strong relationships with local universities and colleges to attract top talent and enhance brand reputation.
  • Recruited top talent to maximize profitability.
  • Discovered and resolved complex employee issues that affected management and business decisions.
  • Drove sales by developing multi-million dollar contract sales
  • Increased sales volume and expanded product line to new retailers, warehouse clubs and natural food chains.

Regional Business Development Manager

Globalpundits
08.2017 - 01.2018
  • Core Responsibilities:
  • Consistently producing top-tier candidates and contracts for high-level IT and Engineering positions within Aerospace, Healthcare, IT, and major government industries throughout the country.
  • For over a decade, guided clients through the challenges of identifying, attracting, engaging, and retaining critical talent.
  • Serving clients clients including both large and small organizations to include a world leader in aerospace manufacturing, two of the nation's largest engineering firms, a leading provider of health insurance, a Fortune 20 global services & software technology company, State Government agencies, two Fortune 500 utilities, multiple Nuclear operating & services companies, and multiple property and casualty insurance technology companies.
  • Delivered presentations at industry conferences and networking events to promote company offerings and establish thought leadership positioning within the market space.
  • Led contract negotiations with clients, suppliers, or partners that balanced company interests while fostering strong relationships for long-term mutual benefit.
  • Achieved consistent results surpassing annual sales quotas through focused targeting of high-potential accounts.
  • Increased customer retention by providing exceptional account management and support services.
  • Expanded regional market presence by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities.

Nationwide Event Marketing

Event Pro Strategies
02.2014 - 11.2017

Core Responsibilities:

  • Drove sales growth with strategic partnerships that expanded the company''s reach within target markets.
  • Managed budgets effectively, optimizing resource allocation for maximum impact on event success.
  • Secured high-profile sponsorships that aligned with company values, elevating events'' prestige and reach.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to ensure seamless collaboration in event planning and execution.
  • Launched new product lines at major trade shows, generating buzz around innovative offerings and driving sales growth.
  • Spearheaded volunteer recruitment efforts, creating a dedicated support team for successful implementation of large-scale events.
  • Established a robust network of vendors and suppliers, ensuring cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality or service levels.
  • Delivered exceptional ROI by overseeing the end-to-end management of diverse event portfolios.

Human Resources Generalist/Corporate Recruiter

Spirit Communications
08.2016 - 08.2017

Core Responsibilities:

  • Conducted career fairs, screened resumes and interviewed applicants to build candidate pipelines and enhance company culture.
  • Served as a liaison between employees and management, addressing concerns or questions to promote open communication and maintain trust.
  • Explained and administered medical insurance, disability and flexible spending accounts.
  • Provided guidance to managers and employees on talent management, payroll, FMLA and benefits.
  • Met with staff to resolve difficult situations related to performance and conflict management.
  • Liaised with HR and payroll to coordinate and manage employee leaves of absence.
  • Managed talent acquisition process, resulting in improved candidate quality and faster time-to-fill ratios.
  • Administered benefits programs effectively, ensuring accurate enrollment and timely processing of claims for employees.
  • Handled new-hire orientation and basic recruiting tasks for best-in-class talent identification.
  • Implemented and supervised orientation procedures for new hires.
  • Maintained up-to-date records of employee information in HRIS system ensuring accurate reporting and data-driven decisionmaking.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and execute diversity and inclusion initiatives, promoting an inclusive workplace environment.
  • Assisted with writing job postings and job descriptions for boards.
  • Organized career fairs and university partnerships to connect directly with potential candidates from diverse backgrounds and skill sets.
  • Developed disaster and recovery strategy to prepare company for hazardous weather conditions, nuclear accidents and terrorist attacks.
  • Assisted in payroll processing, ensuring accurate compensation for all staff members on time each pay period.

Corporate Fundraising, Marketing and Events Officer

Jaguar /Land Rover Dealerships
07.2015 - 02.2016

Core Responsibilities:

  • Managed advertising, public relations and communications for a group of 12 automobile dealerships and collision center.
  • Managed TV, print, online, social media and email campaigns.
  • Planned and managed special events for dealerships, including customer appreciation events, auto launch parties, track/off-road outings, receptions, grand openings and more.
  • Handled all corporate and dealership-specific sponsorships and served as liaison for activities with a wide variety of non-profit organizations.
  • Developed partnerships with local businesses for promotional purposes.
  • Manage team to maintain and maximize effectiveness of multiple websites and online reputation.
  • Managed budgets, co-op processing and billing for the marketing department.
  • Maintain positive working relationships with a wide variety of vendors.
  • Compiled monthly incentives for use in a variety of advertising outlets.
  • Monitored and maintained compliance with manufacturer corporate identity standards and federal/state advertising laws.
  • Secured sponsorships and negotiated contracts to support the financial success of each event.
  • Optimized sales team performance through regular coaching sessions, goal-setting exercises, and performance reviews.
  • Managed budgets for multiple events simultaneously, ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising the overall experience.
  • Leveraged social media platforms to increase visibility, drive engagement, and generate leads for upcoming events.

National Admissions Advisor

ECPI University
11.2014 - 10.2015

Core Responsibilities:

  • Worked closely with financial aid staff to help applicants understand funding options available for their educational pursuits.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries from both prospective students and their families promptly and professionally.
  • Organized and participated in recruitment events, enhancing visibility and brand recognition within target markets.
  • Increased enrollment rates by effectively communicating the benefits and opportunities offered by the institution.
  • Developed strong relationships with high school counselors, resulting in an expanded referral network for potential applicants.
  • Collaborated with academic departments to match prospective students with appropriate programs of study.
  • Served as an ambassador for the institution, representing its values and mission accurately and passionately when interacting with prospective students and their families.
  • Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
  • Exceeded annual enrollment targets by developing targeted outreach campaigns targeting underrepresented populations within the community.
  • Cultivated partnerships with local businesses and organizations to generate internship opportunities for enrolled students, enriching their educational experience while strengthening ties between institution and community stakeholders.

Systems Analyst & Pre Processing Specialist

Aflac
12.2012 - 11.2014

Core Responsibilities:

  • Established effective relationships with key stakeholders across departments to facilitate collaboration on critical projects.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors for hardware and software purchases, maximizing ROI on technology investments.
  • Enhanced system efficiency by identifying and resolving complex technical issues.
  • Streamlined processes for improved productivity through thorough systems analysis and optimization.
  • Led team in implementation of major systems integration project, ensuring seamless communication between different software platforms.
  • Supported cross-functional teams during peak periods, demonstrating adaptability and strong communication skills.
  • Contributed to the development of departmental policies and procedures aimed at enhancing overall operational effectiveness within the organization.
  • Improved application processing times by streamlining workflows and implementing efficient data entry techniques.
  • Reduced errors in submitted applications through thorough review processes and attention to detail.
  • Handled claims consistent with client and corporate policies, procedures, best practices and regulations.
  • Implemented quality assurance measures, monitoring staff performance and providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement efforts.

Unit Controller/Call Center Representative

Palmetto Health Richland
10.2012 - 11.2014

Core Responsibilities:

  • Managed all accounting and financial matters for a large multi-size national account and large complex single location accounts
  • Key Duties- Examined Unit financial records to verify details of recorded transactions.
  • Examined financial records to verify details of recorded transactions.
  • Analyze and interpret budgeting trends.- Assisted in the implementation of corrective action plans developed during audits.
  • Assist in the monthly/quarterly/year-end close process to ensure accuracy and integrity of results at the unit/district/region/division level.
  • Plan or assist in planning annual or project-specific budgets-
  • Generate special reports and respond to data requests from management. Prepare and review reports and other written documentation.
  • Actively listen to concerns and requests of customers and strategic partners, which helps to identify their needs and requirements and to resolve their problems.
  • - Perform unit audits. Perform ad hoc financial analysis for Unit/District management. Participate in the audit process, including assisting in identifying and resolving audit-related issues.-
  • Conduct training on internal controls.
  • Trained accountants and field in contract interpretation, accounting procedures, system applications, and other areas -
  • Provided Unit management with recommendations for action and/or modifications to financial procedures, plans, and controls. Provide support to GM's/DM's/RVP's/DVP in order to ensure accurate results and help improve profitability.
  • Provided support in resolving client billing issues, and managing and collecting receivables.- Ensure accuracy and timeliness of financial data and statistics, including operating and administrative budgets. Ensure that assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses for the responsibility area are accurately reported and accounted for.
  • Ensured audits address areas of concern relative to the goals, performance objectives, and impact of economic, financial, and managerial programs in conformance with Company policies and procedures.- Interact with Buffalo FSC and clients to resolve invoicing and payment/remittance issues.-
  • Maintained records and reports necessary to comply with Company, government, and accrediting agency standards, regulations, and codes.- Driving the zero harm mindset
  • Responsible for Operations of call center staff of 30 in a hospital system, with over 1100 Licensed Beds for third shift.
  • Provided training to unit controller assistants with managed volume that went up to 27 million dollars.

Credit Analyst - Contract Role

Staples Corporate
04.2013 - 12.2013

Core Responsibilities:

  • Spearheaded the review and processing of daily orders flagged by the Existing Account Credit Scoring Model, applying a meticulous and analytical approach to assess credit score metrics and comprehensive account histories.
  • My responsibilities included not only the thorough analysis of the variables triggering alerts but also formulating actionable strategies to resolve pending orders, ensuring both compliance and customer satisfaction.
  • I engaged proactively with customers to uncover the underlying reasons for their past due statuses. Through a combination of empathetic negotiation and firm financial acumen, I successfully facilitated agreements on the payment of delinquent items. This often involved requesting partial or full prepayments tailored to the unique financial circumstances of each account, thereby fostering stronger customer relationships and enhancing cash flow.
  • Additionally, I conducted in-depth analyses by pulling and evaluating Dun & Bradstreet reports. My findings were pivotal as I collaborated with the Investigations team to conduct comprehensive reviews of bank and trade accounts, identifying any discrepancies and ensuring adherence to credit policies. This due diligence was essential in formulating risk mitigation strategies and safeguarding the organization's financial integrity.
  • As part of my workflow, I routinely reviewed past due balances in collaboration with customers. I leveraged my analytical skills and judgment to determine whether to hold or release funds based on a promised payment schedule. This decision-making process was supported by my adeptness at handling an influx of approximately 300 calls and emails daily, where I provided timely responses to inquiries regarding pending orders while enhancing the customer experience.
  • In terms of payment processing, I expertly managed various methods, including phone checks, credit card transactions, and alternative payment solutions. My operational proficiency extended to utilizing advanced system tools such as OIM and Legacy systems, alongside external databases, to retrieve and analyze credit data effectively. By employing data-driven insights, I assessed customer account payment histories, identifying trends and patterns that informed future credit decisions and overall operational strategies, further contributing to the organization's fiscal health and customer trust.

Customer Support Specialist

SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENT LOAN
02.2012 - 12.2012

Core Responsibilities:

  • Managed a high volume of inbound calls while maintaining excellent call quality standards and adhering to established procedures.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to address customer concerns and improve overall service quality.
  • Trained new hires in company-specific billing procedures, contributing to their successful integration into the team.
  • Established clear communication channels between the billing department and sales teams to ensure seamless collaboration on account management issues.
  • Managed complex billing situations with a high level of professionalism, resolving disputes and maintaining client satisfaction.
  • Liaised with customers regarding special payment arrangements, negotiating agreeable terms that protected company interests while accommodating individual circumstances.
  • Handled day-to-day accounting processes to drive financial accuracy.

Provider Relations Representative

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD
06.2009 - 01.2010

Core Responsibilities:

  • Streamlined processes for provider credentialing, ensuring accurate documentation and faster onboarding.
  • Reduced claim disputes by effectively communicating policy changes and updates to providers.
  • Developed comprehensive training materials for new Provider Relations Representatives, facilitating a smooth transition into their roles.
  • Collaborated with internal departments to resolve complex provider issues, maintaining positive relationships and open communication channels.
  • Increased efficiency of provider relations team with the implementation of tracking systems and database management tools.
  • Managed provider relations mailbox by triaging inquiries, facilitating resolution of incoming requests and forwarding requests to appropriate parties.
  • Optimized operational workflows by identifying inefficiencies in current procedures and implementing necessary adjustments for increased productivity.
  • Served as a liaison between healthcare organizations and insurance companies to ensure seamless communication regarding claims processing and payment matters.

Medical Reimbursement Specialist

Medical Services Of America
03.2008 - 06.2009

Core Responsibilities:

  • Accurate input of diagnostic codes into the system which led to reduced errors in claim submission.
  • Streamlined billing procedures for increased accuracy and timely reimbursements.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations, ensuring compliance in all aspects of reimbursement processes.
  • Corrected, completed and processed claims for multiple payer codes.
  • Processed billing calls and answered questions from patients and third-party carriers.
  • Processed online and paper appeal submissions and refund requests.
  • Conducted regular audits to identify errors in coding, reducing the risk of financial penalties for noncompliance.
  • Resolved complex issues related to claim submissions, working closely with insurance representatives to achieve prompt resolutions.
  • Assisted patients in understanding their benefits, coverage limitations, and out-of-pocket expenses, improving patient satisfaction levels.

Education

Project Management

Wharton Executive Education
2022

Organizational Leadership

Harvard University
2022

Skills

  • Operations Management
  • Organizational Development
  • Partnership Development
  • Talent Development
  • Cross-Functional Communication
  • Budget Administration
  • Revenue Forecasting
  • Managing Operations and Efficiency
  • Business Development
  • Project Planning
  • Schedule Management
  • Staff Development
  • Global Procurement
  • Supplier Relationship Management
  • New Vendor Setup
  • Strategic Sourcing
  • Demand forecasting
  • Supplier management
  • Bid process management
  • Procurement expertise

Accomplishments

  • 2024 Black History Month Honoree
  • 2024 International Honoree *INDIA*
  • CREA Global Awards Honoree
  • 2023 Best Staffing Agency In S.C. –
  • Success Magazine's Global Women of Influence 2022 Winner
  • Columbia Regional Business Phenom Honoree 2022
  • Juneteenth Changemaker Honoree Proclamation issued— Honorable Mayor Walker 2022
  • Top Global Companies In The World Winner — India
  • 2021 Business Spotlight Honoree (Business Spotlight Program, City of Columbia) Proclamation Issued
  • Sheen Magazine Awards Honoree 2021 — Business Acumen Award (issued by previous winner Mr. Matthew Knowles )
  • Women of Influence 2021 Honoree(Columbia Regional Business Report)
  • Front Cover (Sheen Magazine) Honoree 2020

Affiliations

  • Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce (Board of Trustee)
  • Advisory Business Council for the Benedict College Women's College
  • SC Chamber of Commerce Business Council
  • Columbia Chamber of Commerce Business Council
  • Forbes Business Council
  • Executive Contributor for Forbes
  • United Ways Women in Philanthropy
  • Netflix - Talent
  • Amazon - Influencer
  • Voyage Media - Content Partner
  • ABC Columbia - Working Wednesday TV Segment
  • Avon - Influencer
  • CNBC - Insight Consumer
  • Indeed - Insider Advisor
  • American Staffing Association - Peer Advisor
  • Brainz Magazine - Executive Writer
  • Capvision - Expert Advisor
  • Hollywood Unlocked - Celebrity Contributor

Certification

  • Agile Foundations
  • Business Analytics Foundations: Descriptive, Exploratory, andExplanatory Analytics
  • Business Analytics:Marketing Data
  • Design Thinking: Data Intelligence
  • Solving Business Problems
  • Minority Certified Enterprise
  • Talent Strategy: Hiring, Engaging, and Rewarding A+ Talent

Additional Information

CORE COMPETENCIES

  • Talent Acquisition & Strategy
  • Full-Cycle Recruitment
  • Sourcing Techniques & Market Analysis
  • Candidate Assessment & Interviewing
  • Team Leadership & Development
  • Employer Branding & Candidate Experience
  • Data-Driven Recruitment Strategies
  • ATS & Recruitment Software Proficiency


EDUCATION
Harvard University | Cambridge, MA
Organizational Leadership

The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA
Certification in Talent Strategy: Hiring, Engaging, and Retaining A+ Talent

CERTIFICATIONS

  • Agile Foundations
  • Business Analytics Foundation
  • Marketing Data
  • Design Thinking - Data Intelligence
  • Solving Business Problems
  • Minority Certified Enterprise Nationally

Timeline

Talent Marketing Director

BLD Brands
02.2019 - 10.2019

Senior Manager - Bid Management

Extraordinary Headhunters LLC
06.2018 - Current

Senior Recruiting Manager - Temporary Contract

Integrity Staffing Solutions Inc.
01.2018 - 06.2018

Regional Business Development Manager

Globalpundits
08.2017 - 01.2018

Human Resources Generalist/Corporate Recruiter

Spirit Communications
08.2016 - 08.2017

Corporate Fundraising, Marketing and Events Officer

Jaguar /Land Rover Dealerships
07.2015 - 02.2016

Procurement Manager

Moore Legal Solutions - Law Firm
01.2015 - 01.2023

National Admissions Advisor

ECPI University
11.2014 - 10.2015

Nationwide Event Marketing

Event Pro Strategies
02.2014 - 11.2017

Credit Analyst - Contract Role

Staples Corporate
04.2013 - 12.2013

Systems Analyst & Pre Processing Specialist

Aflac
12.2012 - 11.2014

Unit Controller/Call Center Representative

Palmetto Health Richland
10.2012 - 11.2014

Customer Support Specialist

SOUTH CAROLINA STUDENT LOAN
02.2012 - 12.2012

Provider Relations Representative

BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD
06.2009 - 01.2010

Executive Board Member

Daniel's Christian School
08.2008 - 07.2023

Medical Reimbursement Specialist

Medical Services Of America
03.2008 - 06.2009

Project Management

Wharton Executive Education

Organizational Leadership

Harvard University
Mrs. Kiara Steater