Kelly Wade
Cedar Rapids
Summary
Results-driven executive operations professional specializing in governance, calendar management, and project leadership. Drives operational efficiency through process improvements and workflow optimization. Collaborates effectively with executive leadership, utilizing strong communication and stakeholder management skills to achieve organizational objectives. Experienced in managing complex initiatives and logistics, with advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite and board meeting software.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Administrative Assistant/Board Liaison
Corda Credit Union
Cedar Rapids
12.2022 - Current
- Coordinated executive schedules and board meeting logistics while managing confidential documentation to facilitate streamlined governance processes within the credit union.
- Spearheaded logistics for events and coordinated cross-departmental projects, aligning resources and stakeholders to effectively execute executive meetings, community engagements, and board initiatives.
- Drafted formal communications and prepared board meeting materials, maintaining official records to ensure regulatory compliance and enhance organizational transparency.
- Streamlined workflows by centralizing document storage systems and digitizing record-keeping for board correspondence, bolstering accessibility and operational efficiency across key governance processes.
Executive Administrative Assistant
Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL)
Cedar Rapids
10.2021 - 12.2022
- Managed complex executive calendars and coordinated travel to align leadership schedules with strategic priorities.
- Co-directed an annual education conference in partnership with RNL, ensuring seamless planning, logistics, and attendee engagement.
- Reviewed and processed expense reports and invoices, maintaining accuracy and compliance with financial and budgetary guidelines.
- Recorded, transcribed, and distributed official meeting minutes, tracking action items to ensure follow-through and accountability.
- Maintained strict confidentiality while handling sensitive executive and organizational information.
- Supported multiple senior leaders, including executives and vice presidents, by managing high-volume scheduling and communications.
- Executed administrative operations using Microsoft Office Suite and Concur, including travel arrangements and expense management.
- Coordinated internal and external meetings, managing calendars, logistics, catering, and preparation of agendas and materials.
Admissions Operations Manager/Director of Admissions
Mount Mercy University
Cedar Rapids
03.2014 - 10.2021
- Lead admissions operations strategy, overseeing application processing, enrollment workflows, and systems to support institutional enrollment goals.
- Identify operational inefficiencies and implemented process improvements, streamlining workflows and enhancing user experience.
- Track key initiatives and action items, driving accountability across departments to advance organizational priorities.
- Collaborate with deans, directors, and faculty to ensure timely completion of contracts, academic deliverables, and institutional requirements.
- Planned and executed large-scale meetings and events, managing logistics and stakeholder communications to ensure successful outcomes.
- Developed and delivered executive-level materials, including reports and presentations, to support strategic decision-making.
- Provide high-level administrative and operational support to senior leadership, managing complex calendars, meetings, and executive communications.
- Maintain strict confidentiality while handling sensitive academic and organizational information.
Senior Annuity Payout Claims Examiner/Team Advisor
Transamerica
Cedar Rapids
01.2013 - 03.2014
- Partnered with legal counsel for complex claims to support accurate and timely claim resolution.
- Evaluated and audited claims documentation for completeness and consistency, leveraging records management systems to protect sensitive client data during all stages of claim resolution.
- Communicated complex financial and regulatory information clearly to internal and external stakeholders, maintaining professionalism and discretion.
- Identified workflow gaps and recommended process improvements, leading to enhanced accuracy and team performance.
- Advised team by providing guidance and subject matter expertise, supporting staff development and consistent application of processes.
Operations Manager
Superior Express Inc.
Cedar Rapids
01.2001 - 03.2013
- Liaised with executive leadership, staff, and clients to ensure clear communication and operational alignment.
- Directed daily operations including staffing, scheduling, and quality assurance while maintaining profitability.
- Oversaw financial and administrative operations including payroll, reporting, and reconciliation to maintain organizational integrity.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.
- Managed contracts, proposals, and client agreements to support executive decision-making and facilitate business growth.
Collections Team Lead
General Electric (GE)
Cedar Rapids
10.2007 - 01.2012
- Handled escalated accounts and sensitive customer interactions, ensuring resolution while maintaining professionalism.
- Partnered with legal and recovery teams to resolve complex financial matters.
- Mentored and trained team members, improving productivity and performance outcomes.
- Coordinated reporting and workflow to support leadership in strategic decision-making.
Education
-
Kirkwood Community College
Cedar Rapids, IASkills
- Executive Support
- Executive Communications & Correspondence
- Board materials preparation
- Governance and compliance coordination
- Compliance Coordination
- Meeting facilitation
- Meeting minutes tracking
- Strategic calendar alignment
- Travel coordination
- Expense reporting
- Advanced MS office suite
- Process improvements
- Strategic planning
- Strong problem solver
- Event logistics coordination
- Project management and collaboration
- Process improvement
- Confidential Information Management
Timeline
Executive Administrative Assistant/Board Liaison
Corda Credit Union
12.2022 - Current
Executive Administrative Assistant
Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL)
10.2021 - 12.2022
Admissions Operations Manager/Director of Admissions
Mount Mercy University
03.2014 - 10.2021
Senior Annuity Payout Claims Examiner/Team Advisor
Transamerica
01.2013 - 03.2014
Collections Team Lead
General Electric (GE)
10.2007 - 01.2012
Operations Manager
Superior Express Inc.
01.2001 - 03.2013
-
Kirkwood Community College