Juanita Mcwilliams
Homewood,IL
Summary
Dynamic business professional with a proven track record of exceeding organizational goals, adept in grants management and cost control. Excelled in procurement & vendor management, enhancing financial compliance and operational efficiency. Experienced Real Estate professional with leasing experience.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Contracts Manager
Facing Forward To End Homelessness
Chicago, IL
06.2022 - Current
- Manage the application, budgeting, and reporting processes for all government contracts, including forecasting contracts cash flow
- Review monthly, quarterly, and annual data – reporting any concerns to leadership
- Compile information from various departments to submit grant renewals, applications, vouchers, and periodic program reports
- Develop and manage the calendar of all submissions, renewals, reports, and contract deadlines
- Attend meetings and trainings related to funding opportunities, and contract
- Research and prepare summaries of potential new funding opportunities
- Collaborate with the Finance and Programs teams department to ensure accurate for grant submissions, compliance, and expenditure control
- Serve as primary liaison with the Continuum of Chicago and appropriate government agencies
- Coordinate all government site visits/audits. Prepare for and serve as the direct contact for fiscal audits on contracts.
- Complete all monthly, quarterly, and annual reports including Illinois Homelessness Reporting System, Sage, APR's – reporting any concerns to leadership 100% timely submissions of all reports state and federal.
- Assist with contract compliance and evaluation of contract scopes and goals
- Assist in the development of the annual operating budget, including match sources and funding per grant for over $9 million in state and federal grants.
- Manage match funding sources and documentation
- Attend meetings and trainings related to contract applications
- Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining networks, participating in professional organizations
- Member and Co-Chair of the CoC Data and Performance Committee, Member and DPC Liaison on the System Performance and Operations Committee
- Active Agency Technical Administrator for CoC HMIS.
- Create annual audit RFP
- Established strong relationships with external partners, fostering trust and collaboration on future contractual engagements.
- Chair of DEI Committee
Broker
Real People Realty
Mokena, IL
03.2017 - Current
- Developed strong relationships with clients, earning their trust and loyalty through consistent communication and portfolio updates.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing any concerns or questions from clients promptly and professionally.
- Negotiated favorable terms for clients during transactions, maximizing their profits in both buying, selling, and leasing scenarios.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, ensuring that clients received the most accurate information to make informed decisions about their investments.
- Prepared contracts and related documentation according to strict standards.
- Completed training programs to remain updated and further develop proficiency of important industry information.
- Arranged for inspections and surveys of sold properties.
- Streamlined property management processes to increase efficiency and productivity.
- Increased tenant retention rates through proactive property management and timely resolution of maintenance issues.
- Reduced property management costs by implementing cost-effective maintenance strategies and vendor negotiations.
- Knowledgeable of Fair Housing Laws, and Chicago Residential Landlords Tenant Ordinance
Manager of Technology
Prairie-Hills ESD 144
Markham, IL
08.2011 - 12.2020
- Served as primary decision-maker for internal technology spending, creating budget guidelines to reduce waste and decrease unnecessary upgrades.
- Managed technology budget of $2.5 million for eight locations and Administrative Offices.
- Ensured compliance with relevant industry regulations through regular audits/reviews of IT policies and procedures.
- Streamlined IT processes through automation, enhancing productivity across the organization.
- Supported organizational growth through scalable infrastructure design.
- Implemented robust cybersecurity measures, safeguarding sensitive data and preventing security breaches.
- Negotiated contracts with external vendors for optimal pricing on essential hardware/software purchases.
- Delivered comprehensive training programs, boosting staff proficiency in using new technologies effectively.
- Managed life cycle replacement of hardware and software.
- Liaised with other departments to minimize network interruptions and possible downtimes.
- Wrote strategic business plans outlining need for departmental information technology resources.
Education
Master of Science - Education Administration And Leadership
American College of Education
Chicago, IL09-2014
Master of Science - Education
Saint Xavier University
Chicago, IL09-2008
Skills
- Cost control
- Procurement management
- Contract negotiation
- Vendor relations
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
Affiliations
- Grant Professionals Association
- National Alliance to End Homelessness
- Illinois Education Association
- Mainstreet Organization of Realtors
Timeline
Contracts Manager
Facing Forward To End Homelessness
06.2022 - Current
Broker
Real People Realty
03.2017 - Current
Manager of Technology
Prairie-Hills ESD 144
08.2011 - 12.2020
Master of Science - Education Administration And Leadership
American College of Education
Master of Science - Education
Saint Xavier University