SAMARA THOMAS
Gwynn Oak,MD
Summary
Dynamic Child Support Lead Specialist with extensive experience with the State of Maryland, excelling in analytical investigations and conflict resolution. Proven track record in training teams, ensuring compliance, and fostering stakeholder collaboration. Exceptional at policy implementation and case advocacy, driving equitable outcomes while maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Child Support Lead Specialist
STATE OF MARYLAND
01.2019 - Current
- Supervised, trained, and evaluated a team of up to 14 Child Support Specialists, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures while promoting equitable outcomes for all cases
- Conducted investigations and analysis of complex cases, including verifying information from diverse stakeholders, to resolve disputes and establish compliance with child support orders
- Facilitated negotiation and mediation sessions between parties to achieve voluntary agreements, fostering cooperation and compliance
- Reviewed and approved casework to ensure accuracy, compliance with state and federal regulations, and alignment with organizational goals
- Oversaw policy application and coordinated with internal and external stakeholders, including courts, attorneys, and agencies, to ensure effective collaboration
- Developed and delivered training programs for staff on investigation procedures, compliance standards, and conflict resolution, fostering professional development and adherence to best practices
- Prepared case files and presented evidence at administrative and judicial hearings, demonstrating strong analytical and communication skills
- Analyzed case data to identify trends and recommend solutions, supporting continuous improvement in operations and compliance efforts
- Provided guidance and support to resolve sensitive issues, such as disputes arising from enforcement measures, ensuring ethical and respectful resolutions
Executive Assistant
STATE OF MARYLAND
02.2017 - 10.2017
- Managed over $14 million dollars of the sales of surplus state and federal assets through the govdeals government agency auction site.
- Developed pricing strategies, balancing firm objectives, and exceed customer satisfaction goals.
- Advise participating state agencies on policies and operating procedures to ensure functional effectiveness of the website and maintain customer satisfaction.
- Coordinate with department heads to plan advertising services, secure information on equipment and update customer specification information.
- Demonstrate mastery of Microsoft Office by preparing state documents for the Federal Surplus Property Program including invoices, financial statements, and spreadsheets.
- Prepare and review operational reports using Excel to ensure accuracy and efficiency
- Setup and maintain paper and electronic filing systems for financial records and office correspondence.
Vault Teller
M&T Bank
07.2015 - 04.2016
- Trained new tellers in processes and procedures for financial institution, answering questions and providing guidance.
- Balanced staff and vault at end of day and secured monies in accordance with established procedures.
- Adhered to dual control processes and audited cash drawers to reduce losses due to accounting errors and employee theft.
- Reconciled branch reports and general ledger accounts to identify unusual transactions, fraud and accounting errors.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Radio And Television Broadcasting
BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY
Bowie12-2014
Skills
- Analytical Investigations
- Conflict Resolution and Mediation
- Grievance and Disciplinary Hearings
- Compliance with Personnel Laws and Policies
- Stakeholder Collaboration and Advising
- Policy Interpretation and Implementation
- Case Preparation and Advocacy
Timeline
Child Support Lead Specialist
STATE OF MARYLAND
01.2019 - Current
Executive Assistant
STATE OF MARYLAND
02.2017 - 10.2017
Vault Teller
M&T Bank
07.2015 - 04.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Radio And Television Broadcasting
BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY
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