Natalie Ward
Charlotte,NC
Summary
Dynamic leader with a proven track record as a Executive Director, adept in staff management and partnership development. Spearheaded initiatives that fostered organizational growth and enhanced community networking, demonstrating exceptional public speaking and critical thinking skills. Achieved significant advancements in employer engagement and client job placement, ensuring compliance and regulatory alignment.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
Vocational Advocacy And Training Inc
02.2021 - 06.2024
- Oversaw financial management in 7 counties, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Forge strong relationships with stakeholders, providing regular updates on organizational progress and soliciting their expertise when needed.
- Represented organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
- Established strong partnerships with local employers, resulting in increased job placement opportunities for clients.
- Collaborated with external organizations including non-profits, businesses and government agencies to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Built and maintained strong company teams by hiring and training qualified staff to create positive and productive work environments.
- Spearheaded new program initiatives to address unmet community needs and advance the organization''s mission.
- Advocated on behalf of individuals with disabilities within the business community, promoting awareness of their unique talents and capabilities as valuable members of the workforce.
- Implemented creative strategies for reaching out to potential employers who were previously unfamiliar with the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities, resulting in new job opportunities for clients.
Director of Vocational Services
Pathways 2 Employment
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- 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.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Managed daily operations while overseeing multiple locations to foster increased productivity.
Supported Employment Coordinator
Primary Care Solutions
07.2015 - 01.2019
- Built a strong network of community partners by attending industry events and maintaining regular correspondence with fellow professionals in the field.
- Enhanced client success by developing and implementing individualized employment plans tailored to their needs.
- Secured grant funding through effective proposal writing, enabling program expansion into new areas of need within the community served.
- Provided comprehensive support to clients through ongoing communication, coaching, and advocacy, leading to improved job retention rates.
- Established strong partnerships with local employers, resulting in increased job placement opportunities for clients.
- Developed customized marketing materials highlighting clients'' strengths and abilities for use in employer outreach efforts.
- Coordinated and facilitated job readiness workshops to prepare clients for successful employment outcomes.
- Facilitated smooth transitions from vocational rehabilitation programs into competitive integrated employment settings for clients by providing seamless wraparound support services.
Director
Access 2 Jobs Vocational Services
10.2011 - 07.2015
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and stakeholders to guide operational strategy.
- 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.
- Formed strategic partnerships and connected with potential clients to drive business development.
Education
High School Diploma -
Mount Hope High School
Mount Hope, WV06.1995
Skills
- Staff Management
- Compliance and regulations
- Marketing
- Partnership Development
- Vendor Relations
- Job Development
- Training facilitation
- Community Networking
- Career Counseling
- Critical Thinking
- Public Speaking
- Business Management
- Disability Knowledge
Timeline
Executive Director
Vocational Advocacy And Training Inc
02.2021 - 06.2024
Director of Vocational Services
Pathways 2 Employment
01.2019 - 01.2021
Supported Employment Coordinator
Primary Care Solutions
07.2015 - 01.2019
Director
Access 2 Jobs Vocational Services
10.2011 - 07.2015
High School Diploma -
Mount Hope High School
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