Kelley Smith
Chesterfield,Virginia
Summary
Experienced regulatory executive and attorney with 15+ years leading licensing, policy development, and board operations across Virginia state government. Skilled in interpreting and implementing complex laws, including the APA and FOIA, and in managing licensing and disciplinary processes for high-impact regulatory boards. Proven ability to develop and implement policy, supervise cross-functional teams, and advise executive leadership on legal and procedural matters. Strong legislative and stakeholder engagement background, including representing agencies before the General Assembly and professional organizations. Recognized for strengthening regulatory compliance, driving modernization efforts, and promoting operational and financial integrity.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Exec Director - Boards of Barbers & Cosmetology, and Hearing Aid Specialist & Opticians
Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
Richmond, Virginia
02.2023 - Current
- Manage all aspects of board meetings, ensuring compliance with the Administrative Process Act (APA), the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), and parliamentary procedures.
- Provide guidance and training to board members on regulatory, procurement, and administrative hearing processes.
- Advise boards on case decisions, and ensure orders comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
- Serve as the board spokesperson, communicating with legislators, media, educational institutions, and the public.
- Represent the department and boards at professional meetings and interagency collaborations.
- Oversee records custody, retention, and case coordination with Post-Adjudication Licensing, and Adjudication units.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures, including new statutes and regulation rollouts, such as the Cosmetology Compact.
- Administer budgets and coordinate financial activities with Finance and Administrative Services sections.
- Prepare regulatory packages for the Virginia Regulatory Town Hall, and coordinate statutory and regulatory changes.
- Draft legislative proposals, impact statements, and direct policy and legislative studies for assigned boards.
- Lead agency initiatives, such as new licensing system design and school audit programs,
- Plan and implement the New Board Member Training Conference.
Deputy Exec Director - Boards of PT, LTCA, Funeral
Virginia Department of Health Professions
Richmond, Virginia
06.2019 - 02.2023
- Provided operational and legal support for credentialing, disciplinary, and licensing processes across multiple professional boards.
- Analyzed licensing applications, audits, and inspections; made case management decisions aligned with board policies.
- Managed docketing and staffing of informal conferences, formal hearings, and summary suspensions to optimize case flow and compliance.
- Collaborated with the enforcement division to revise investigative guidelines and improve investigation and inspection quality.
- Directed records management, ensuring confidentiality, accessibility, and regulatory compliance.
- Assisted with the implementation of the Physical Therapy Licensure Compact and related background checks.
- Represented the agency in national stakeholder collaborations and conference workgroups.
- Supervised employees, including establishing performance goals and conducting evaluations.
- Acted as Executive Director in her absence, managing all board operations.
Deputy Exec Director - Board of Dentistry
Virginia Department of Health Professions
Richmond, Virginia
08.2012 - 06.2019
- Managed credentialing, disciplinary, and licensing operations for the Board of Dentistry.
- Reviewed applications, patient records, audits, and inspections; advised on complex case decisions.
- Chaired the Exam Committee and Regulatory Advisory Panel for opioid use in dental practice.
- Assisted in drafting and revising laws and regulations, including sedation permits and Dental Assistant II provisions.
- Developed guidance documents and inspection protocols for sedation permit processes.
- Prepared official case documents, reports, and public communications, such as "Did You Know?" series
- Collaborated with enforcement to revise investigative procedures and improve case outcomes.
- Directed records management, and led staff training and information sessions.
- Served as the acting Executive Director during leadership absences.
Adjudication Specialist
Virginia Department of Health Professions
Richmond, Virginia
03.2010 - 08.2012
- Analyzed investigative reports to ensure completeness and legal sufficiency; requested additional evidence as needed.
- Developed prosecution plans and prepared case documents, including consent agreements and orders.
- Coordinated witness interviews, expert reports, subpoenas, and hearing exhibits.
- Prosecuted disciplinary, credentialing, and reinstatement cases before licensing boards.
- Maintained case processing timeliness in accordance with agency standards.
- Provided courteous and accurate information to the public and agency staff.
Contract Attorney
Lexolution
Richmond, Virginia
08.2009 - 03.2010
- Reviewed, researched and provided a comprehensive summary of documents for responsiveness, confidentiality and privilege.
Associate Attorney
Spotts Fain, PC
Richmond, Virginia
12.2005 - 08.2009
- Represented national and mid-sized clients in Virginia state and federal courts, with a focus on commercial litigation, creditors' rights, collections, and employment disputes.
- Managed complex civil litigation matters from initial client intake through final resolution, including pleadings, discovery, depositions, motion practice, and trial preparation.
- Drafted and argued dispositive motions, including motions for summary judgment and motions to dismiss, achieving favorable outcomes for business clients.
- Negotiated settlements in high-stakes disputes involving contract enforcement, secured transactions, and wage claims.
- Counseled clients on regulatory compliance, litigation risk, and dispute avoidance strategies across industries such as banking, healthcare, and construction.
- Supervised and mentored junior associates, paralegals, and legal assistants; provided quality control oversight on legal filings and billing practices.
- Maintained and grew client relationships through regular communication, strategic advice, and proactive case updates.
- Ensured all case management, filings, and court appearances adhered to deadlines and ethical obligations, including electronic discovery and local rule compliance.
Senior Complaints Specialist
Virginia Department of Education
Richmond, Virginia
12.2003 - 12.2005
- Conducted investigations and compliance reviews on services provided to students with disabilities.
- Provided technical assistance to local school systems on state and federal special education regulations.
- Researched education laws, including FERPA and HIPAA, and communicated findings to stakeholders.
- Analyzed the validity of complaints, and issued formal findings and recommendations.
- Delivered training and legal guidance to Department of Education staff, and local agencies.
Education
Juris Doctor -
University of Richmond School of Law
Richmond, Virginia05.2003
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia05.1997
Skills
- Administrative law and regulatory expertise
- Policy development and implementation
- Board governance and leadership
- Team leadership and staff supervision
- Analytical thinking and problem solving
- Legislative relations and advocacy
- Organizational and communication skills
- Research and policy analysis
- Management experience
Bar Membership
Member, Virginia State Bar, 2003-10-16
Accomplishments
- Interstate Cosmetology Compact - Treasurer 2025-2026
Timeline
Exec Director - Boards of Barbers & Cosmetology, and Hearing Aid Specialist & Opticians
Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
02.2023 - Current
Deputy Exec Director - Boards of PT, LTCA, Funeral
Virginia Department of Health Professions
06.2019 - 02.2023
Deputy Exec Director - Board of Dentistry
Virginia Department of Health Professions
08.2012 - 06.2019
Adjudication Specialist
Virginia Department of Health Professions
03.2010 - 08.2012
Contract Attorney
Lexolution
08.2009 - 03.2010
Associate Attorney
Spotts Fain, PC
12.2005 - 08.2009
Senior Complaints Specialist
Virginia Department of Education
12.2003 - 12.2005
Juris Doctor -
University of Richmond School of Law
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Virginia Commonwealth University
Similar Profiles
Sophia TerrelongeSophia Terrelonge
Labor Program Administrator at The Department of Business and Professional RegulationLabor Program Administrator at The Department of Business and Professional Regulation
R. Todd AgansR. Todd Agans
Licensing Investigator II at Illinois Department Of Financial And Professional RegulationLicensing Investigator II at Illinois Department Of Financial And Professional Regulation
MO BAJRANGIMO BAJRANGI
Investigative Specialist II at Florida Department of Business & Professional RegulationInvestigative Specialist II at Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
Joel Adrian Lopez RojasJoel Adrian Lopez Rojas
Manager of Delivery and Warehouse at Luxury FurnitureManager of Delivery and Warehouse at Luxury Furniture
Stephanie Wynn-JonesStephanie Wynn-Jones
Executive Director, TPA Operations, PMO, and Technology at - CareFirst BCBSExecutive Director, TPA Operations, PMO, and Technology at - CareFirst BCBS