Extensive experience in administrative services within the Department of Health and Human Services, contributing to operational efficiency at the National Institutes of Health and specializing in scientific review management.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Administrative Officer
Department of Health and Human Services
12.2020 - 04.2025
A results-driven and highly organized Team Lead with experience mentoring staff and ensuring timely, high-quality work within the Center for Scientific Review at the National Institutes of Health. Proven ability to guide a team in planning, organizing, and prioritizing workload to meet all deadlines and exceed internal and external customer expectations.
My key leadership role within my team is to ensure both internal and external needs are met with high standards. By mentoring new staff and monitoring performance, I foster a productive and supportive environment. My involvement in planning, organizing, and prioritizing workloads helps my team stay on track with deadlines, and my proactive participation in meetings with senior staff and the Executive Officer reflects a commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement.
My commitment to procurement, travel related tasks and close collaboration with staff helps to resolve issues promptly with less impact to costumers. I have a close interaction with day-to-day operations, balancing leadership, mentorship, and detailed oversight effectively.
I am involved in high-level communication and coordination within my organization, ensuring that information from meetings related to administration, policies, and procedures flows effectively across different layers of the Institute. I find reporting back to stakeholders timely is the best approach and most effective in conveying strategies and new procedures.
One of many responsibilities is to monitor the Budget for my Division. I am responsible for verifying all Undelivered Orders and Prior Years lines by monitoring and cancelling expired lines as required. I serve as a back-up Integrated Time and Attendance (ITAS) Coordinator for the Center. I enter new employees into the ITAS system, help with audits and ensure that internal policies and procedure are followed.
I am responsible for providing support for Contracts and a Card Approving Official for the NIH Purchase Card. In addition, I manage a diverse range of administrative functions that require meticulous attention to detail and a strong grasp of federal policies. My expertise extends to navigating complex systems and interacting effectively across multiple departments to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency. Whether coordinating travel arrangements or handling procurement tasks, my goal is to deliver seamless support to both staff and stakeholders.
In addition to these core responsibilities, I actively contribute to strategic planning initiatives that align organizational goals with operational needs. By analyzing workflows and identifying areas for improvement, I work to implement solutions that foster efficiency and collaboration across divisions. Engaging regularly with interdisciplinary teams has provided me with insight into diverse perspectives, enabling the creation of more inclusive and effective policies.
I approve transactions and meet the deadline each month. I have held a purchase card in previous years, as well as Card Approving Official (CAO) role.
By leveraging my expertise in various administrative domains, I have cultivated a reputation for being a dependable resource for both managerial and staff-level needs. My ability to navigate federal systems such as the NIH Purchase Card and ITAS platform, paired with my aptitude for detailed financial oversight, ensures that policies and budgets are adhered to effectively. As a proactive contributor, I consistently propose practical solutions that enhance productivity and streamline operations.
My proficiency in providing guidance extends to acting as a mentor for junior administrative professionals, fostering their professional growth while aligning with organizational objectives. Through regular collaboration with leadership and participation in interdisciplinary initiatives, I aim to bridge gaps and build cohesive strategies that reflect the multifaceted needs of the Institute.
I am also deeply engaged in fostering a culture of accountability and excellence within the administrative domain. By prioritizing transparent communication and actively addressing logistical challenges, I aim to ensure that the Institute’s vision is consistently aligned with operational practices. My approach emphasizes not only the technical aspects of administrative work but also the human-centered strategies that enhance team morale and build effective partnerships. This perspective has allowed me to implement forward-thinking solutions that prepare the organization for future demands while maintaining high standards of service quality.
My role also involves active engagement with various operational systems to maintain efficiency and compliance. As an advocate for technological integration, I promote the effective use of systems such as the Procurement Official Tracking System (POTS) to ensure seamless oversight and reporting. Furthermore, I contribute to the alignment of administrative practices with the evolving needs of the Institute by implementing data-driven approaches to decision-making.
Recognizing the importance of staying attuned to organizational dynamics, I prioritize attending key meetings and contributing to discussions that shape the Institute's strategic direction. By serving as a liaison between different departments, I facilitate cohesive communication that bridges technical expertise with broader institutional goals.
In addition to this experience, I serve as the Help Desk Point of Contact (HPOC) in DCCPS/NCI and used NBS daily to enter new Fellows and provide guidance for payments and support related to new Fellow appointments. I held a Contracting Officer Warrant prior to my position at NCI. At the time there was a moratorium on Warrants and the need was not necessary at NCI. I use NBS to enter requisitions in Oracle and Prism to approve Internal and External requisitions going to the Contract Officers Acquisition Center (COAC). I use NBS to approve travel for all staff. My experience has provided me with more than the necessary required purchase policy and practice system requirements as discussed throughout my resume. I maintain a positive working relationship with the NHLBI COAC and will be working with them on a continual basis. I serve as the Simplified Acquisition Committee (SAC) Committee Member and IC Purchase Card Coordinator and Invoice Specialist. I attend all meetings as required.
I am the Procurement Official Tracking System (POTS), Help Desk Point of Contact, NBS Center Advocate and attend all meetings as required.
Series: 0341 Pay Plan: GS Grade: 14
Administrative Officer Supervisory Team Lead
DHHS/NIH/NCI/OD/OM
01.2016 - 12.2020
I encourage staff to look at the bigger picture and how their decisions affect the team and our organization.
Throughout my career, I have consistently leveraged my diverse expertise to streamline administrative processes, enhance compliance measures, and build collaborative relationships across departments. Whether managing procurement systems, advocating for efficient resource allocation, or providing critical liaison services, my approach is rooted in strategic planning and unwavering dedication to organizational goals.
My extensive experience in administrative and procurement roles has honed my skills in managing complex operations and navigating federal systems. During my tenure, I consistently demonstrated a high level of expertise in budget management, compliance with contracting policies, and effective communication with internal and external stakeholders. This foundation has allowed me to address challenges proactively, maintain operational efficiency, and foster a collaborative work environment that aligns with organizational goals.
I have a strong work ethic and strong organizational skills. I have all the relevant training and skills required for a Team Lead position within NIH.
My commitment to leadership and expertise in administrative management was further solidified during this period. I consistently strived to instill a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. By implementing streamlined protocols and fostering open communication among teams, I was able to sustain a high-performing administrative framework that supported the mission-critical goals of the organization.
During my years of service, I cultivated a results-driven management style focused on fostering talent, enhancing operational frameworks, and building cohesive teams. My ability to anticipate issues and identify innovative solutions ensured that our administrative processes remained agile and effective. I spearheaded initiatives aimed at refining procurement workflows, adopting technology to streamline operations, and enhancing staff competencies through targeted professional development programs. These achievements laid the groundwork for continued excellence in administrative functions while positioning the team to meet the evolving needs of a federal work environment.
I was accepted and completed the Empowered Supervisory Program at the NCI. I learned valuable skills and put them to use daily. I value each member of my team and what they can bring to make us a cohesive and successful work group.
During this time, I also focused on leveraging technology to improve administrative processes and operational efficiency. By implementing innovative systems that streamlined reporting and workflow management, I ensured that teams had the tools they needed to meet deadlines and achieve departmental goals. My role often required me to act as a liaison between leadership and staff, translating strategic objectives into actionable plans while addressing any gaps in operational performance. Proactive communication and the ability to anticipate organizational needs were pivotal in maintaining alignment across diverse teams.
I regularly check in with my team to maintain accountability and focus on our goals and the NCI mission. I independently work with the Division on a wide range of issues related to Administrative Management.
Throughout my tenure, I placed a strong emphasis on cultivating leadership qualities within my team, ensuring that each member had the support and tools necessary to thrive. By initiating skill-building workshops and fostering an environment of continuous learning, I empowered staff to take ownership of their roles, which directly contributed to organizational success. Leveraging data-driven decision-making practices, I also spearheaded initiatives to enhance operational efficiencies, ensuring that all administrative processes aligned seamlessly with overarching goals.
I stay updated on regulations and guidelines for my role. I assist staff in interpreting policy while ensuring smooth workflow. I make recommendations by looking at long range plans and potential barriers. I make sound decisions while avoiding risk.
I handle Contracting and Inter Agency Agreements, ensuring professional relationships with other Government Agencies for accurate documentation and complete accounting information.
My dynamic approach to leadership emphasizes transparency and adaptability, allowing teams to thrive even in the face of challenging administrative landscapes. I have consistently championed efficiency through the adoption of modern tools and techniques, ensuring every process—from budget management to compliance and resource optimization—aligns seamlessly with broader institutional goals. By fostering trust and accountability within teams, I have cultivated an environment where innovative ideas are encouraged, and professional growth is prioritized.
I proactively share information and promote transparency within the Division and its Programs whenever possible. I serve as the Help Desk Point of Contact for the Fellowship Payment System (FPS) and the Travel Card Point of contact. I served as the Human Resources Point of Contact for the Division meeting with the Director and Management monthly to discuss plans and managing the complex process of hiring.
I independently meet with Management on HR, Budget, and Conference Planning regularly. I provide mentoring and training to new and Junior-level administrative staff.
I have established, reviewed, and approved performance plans and assessed training needs.
Hours per week: 40
Series: 0341 Pay Plan: GS Grade: 13
NIH/NCI/OD/OM/ARC- 1/24/16- Present
Division of Cancer Control Population Science (DCCPS)
I served as a Senior/Team Lead for the Administrative Management Branch, Extramural Program.
Key Responsibilities:
Proactively ascertained customer needs and requirements to make appropriate administrative decisions within the Extramural Program.
Communicated program and management goals by identifying outcomes; allocated and adjusted resources in response to workload, ensuring operational goals were met.
Met with the Executive Group at the beginning of a new fiscal year to determine succession planning.
Served as an integral member of management and as the primary contact for administrative activities within the Extramural Program.
Planned, directed, and organized my team’s work; encouraged training and staff development through coaching and regular team-building exercises.
Held weekly staff meetings to ensure accountability and follow-up on assigned projects; promoted responsiveness to customer needs.
Established employee performance plans, provided feedback, and reviewed with Chief for final ratings.
Developed a database to analyze travel trends and measure spending; used data to support staff in correcting errors and improving efficiency in travel planning and authorizations.
Provided reports at regular forums and meetings to foster communication and update stakeholders on new policies and procedures.
Acted as the Division Chief for the Administrative Management Branch when needed; ensured weaknesses in program goals and business areas were addressed.
Made recommendations to Directors to enhance administrative functions and program areas.
Provided responsive internal and external customer support; evaluated requests ensuring complete and accurate documentation for personnel management, travel, training, space management, work requests, and property.
Initiated actions to resolve daily administrative problems; developed and implemented administrative policies, procedures, and management controls.
Coordinated acquisition activities for procurement and contracting; ensured funds availability and compliance with laws, regulations, and policies.
Approved purchase card activities, ensuring management controls, quality assurance, and risk management principles were adhered to.
Stayed current with all aspects of Contracting Officer requirements.
Assisted managers and supervisors in planning and developing budget operating plans; maintained and monitored expenditures, correcting discrepancies as necessary.
Notified managers of unusual trends or potential shortfalls; managed reimbursable budgets and coordinated required funds.
Provided monthly updates to the Administrative Management Division Chief; communicated critical information to the team and EP staff promptly.
Delivered oral and written communications, including presentations in administrative functional areas as necessary.
Approved travel authorizations and vouchers timely for both domestic and foreign travel.
Served on the Extramural Administrative Management Council.
Hours per week: 40
Series: 0341 Pay Plan: GS Grade: 13
Supervisor: Amita Patel (301-496-6053)
Education
Montgomery College
Rockville, MD
Skills
MS OfficeSuite
Teambuilding, Supervisory and Management
Payroll and budgeting
Personnel management
Expense reporting
Travel arrangements
Training and coaching
Database administration
Contract negotiations
Procedure development
Certification
NIH Mid-Level Leadership Program- Graduate, May 2014.
Appointed Contracting Officer, December 2010
Simplified Acquisitions Certificate, 2010
Federal Appropriations Law, 2010
EEO Counseling USDA Graduate School, July 2007
Awards
Received the NIH Director’s Award in 2023., Received the NCI Director's Award in November, 2018 for the NCI Hiring Controls Working Group for managing the complex process of hiring actions., Selected and graduated from the NCI Empowered Supervisor Training 2016. Graduated for the NIH Mid-Level Leadership Program, May, 2014. Nominated by Senior Leadership and Supervisor.
Office Senior Advisor, Office of Civil Rights at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services AdministrationOffice Senior Advisor, Office of Civil Rights at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration
Medical Support Assistant/Purchased Referred Care Technician at Department of Health and Human Services/Indian Health ServicesMedical Support Assistant/Purchased Referred Care Technician at Department of Health and Human Services/Indian Health Services
Senior Health Communications Specialist (GS-14) at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of the Assistant Secretary of Health (OASH), Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP)Senior Health Communications Specialist (GS-14) at U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of the Assistant Secretary of Health (OASH), Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP)
Supervisory Administrative Services Branch Chief to the Commissioned Corps Headquarters (CCHQ) at Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH)Supervisory Administrative Services Branch Chief to the Commissioned Corps Headquarters (CCHQ) at Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health (OASH)