Katharine Branson
Summary
Accomplished leader with a distinguished career the U.S. Air Force with experience in multiple commands, adept in strategic planning and people management. Spearheaded initiatives that fostered innovation, enhanced collaboration, and improved decision-making processes. Demonstrated expertise in operations management and a charismatic leadership style, significantly influencing national policies and strategies.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Intelligence
U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command
06.2022 - Current
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Proactively identified potential risks and implemented mitigation strategies to minimize negative impacts on projects or business operations.
HSF Peace With Women Fellow
U.S. Air Force
04.2020 - 11.2022
- Selected as Department of Defense representative to the Halifax Peace with Women Fellowship
- Networked and built strong presence with 12 peers from 11 NATO nations to facilitate professional relationships.
- Contributed to research activities by providing specialist input based on professional expertise, practice, experience, and qualifications.
- The Fellowship's design draws from diverse sectors, including defense, science and technology, government, media, academia, think tanks, and civil society. In keeping with HFX's goal of advancing a modern vision of security, the Fellowship aimed to extend its focus beyond the traditional definitions of domestic and international security.
Director
U.S. Air Force Technical Application Center
06.2020 - 06.2022
- Executed a $350M budget supporting nuclear treaty surveillance.
- Supported execution of a multi-domain global sensor network delivering insights to the White House and national decisional makers which influenced national policies and strategies.
- Led a diverse organization in seven global locations, creating the organization's first artificial intelligence accelerator program
- Established the Center's first Airman Resiliency Team providing realtime, specialized support to all of the Center's service members
Director
National Air And Space Intelligence Center
06.2018 - 06.2020
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Directed timely delivery of foundational and scientific intelligence to policymakers Combatant Commanders and the Intelligence Community.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Created future of intelligence support to space operations during a pivotal time in the creation of the Space Force
Division Chief
Air Force Central Command
06.2017 - 06.2018
- Navigated complex negotiations with mission stakeholders, resulting in mutually beneficial agreements that advanced division interests.
- Implemented risk management strategies to identify potential issues early on, mitigating threats to project timelines or deliverables.
- Led a team of international professionals to achieve division goals and maintain high standards of performance across four distinct operating areas
Pacific Command Branch Chief
Office Of Undersecretary For Defense Intelligence
06.2016 - 06.2017
- Exercised supervisory authorities and responsibilities involving work assignment and review.
- Examined customer requirements and prioritized allocation of resources
Squadron Commander
U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command
06.2013 - 07.2015
- Coordinated with other units to facilitate joint exercises, strengthening inter-service relationships and improving overall mission effectiveness.
- Established strong working relationships with partner agencies to promote information sharing and improve collaboration on joint missions.
- Enhanced squadron readiness by implementing comprehensive training programs and performance evaluations.
- Managed budgetary resources responsibly, ensuring proper allocation of funds for mission-critical tasks while reducing unnecessary expenses.
- Maintained high standards for physical fitness within the squadron, supporting members in achieving their goals through organized group workouts and tailored exercise plans.
- Collaborated on strategic planning initiatives to develop long-term vision for the squadron''s growth and success in achieving its objectives.
Senior Duty Officer
White House, Executive Office Of The President
07.2011 - 06.2013
- Provided operational and intelligence support directly to the President, Vice President, National Security Advisor, Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Advisor and the National Security Staff
- Monitored surveillance systems for potential threats, allowing for quick identification and resolution of issues.
- Contributed to the successful execution of large-scale events through meticulous planning and coordination efforts.
- Provided exceptional national security staff service, addressing concerns promptly and professionally.
Intelligence Officer
U.S. Air Force, Varied Commands
10.1998 - 06.2011
- Managed sensitive information with discretion, ensuring proper handling and dissemination to authorized personnel only.
- Conducted reconnaissance to compile field information, focusing on operational locations.
- Mentored junior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development within the team.
- Monitored surveillance and personnel to maximize unit and facility safety.
- Prioritized threat levels for analyzing and communication.
- Advised senior military members and commanders based on intelligence findings.
- Supported military operations through real-time tactical intelligence updates, enhancing situational awareness for deployed units.
Education
Master of Science - National Security Strategy
National War College, National Defense University
Ft McNair, Washington D.C.06.2016
Master's of Public Policy - Military Civilian And NGO Coordination
Princeton University
Princeton, NJMaster of Arts - International Security Studies
St. Mary's University
San Antonio, TxBachelor of Arts - Japanese Language And Literature
University of Georgia
Athens, GaSkills
- Strategic Planning
- Verbal and written communication
- People Management
- Operations Management
- Charismatic Leader
- Partnerships and Alliances
- Creativity and Innovation
- Strategies and goals
Additional Information
Member of the U.S. Air Force Intelligence officer Development team for five years. Responsible for individualized mentoring and vectoring for career development of all USAF intelligence officers.
Member of the U.S. Air Force Intelligence officer Functional Advisory Council responsible for making recommendations to the three-star general career field manager on organizing and training the U.S. Air Force intelligence officer force.
Timeline
Director of Intelligence
U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command
06.2022 - Current
Director
U.S. Air Force Technical Application Center
06.2020 - 06.2022
HSF Peace With Women Fellow
U.S. Air Force
04.2020 - 11.2022
Director
National Air And Space Intelligence Center
06.2018 - 06.2020
Division Chief
Air Force Central Command
06.2017 - 06.2018
Pacific Command Branch Chief
Office Of Undersecretary For Defense Intelligence
06.2016 - 06.2017
Squadron Commander
U.S. Air Force Air Combat Command
06.2013 - 07.2015
Senior Duty Officer
White House, Executive Office Of The President
07.2011 - 06.2013
Intelligence Officer
U.S. Air Force, Varied Commands
10.1998 - 06.2011
Master of Science - National Security Strategy
National War College, National Defense University
Master's of Public Policy - Military Civilian And NGO Coordination
Princeton University
Master of Arts - International Security Studies
St. Mary's University
Bachelor of Arts - Japanese Language And Literature
University of Georgia
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