Sarah McCain
Dover,New Hampshire
Summary
Dynamic Project Manager with extensive experience at Cognac, excelling in cross-functional collaboration and effective communication. Proven track record in optimizing project execution and managing stakeholder relationships, while adeptly addressing risks. Skilled in project management and organizational strategies, delivering impactful solutions that enhance operational efficiency and drive success.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Project Manager II
Cognac
Portsmouth, NH
07.2020 - Current
- Led project management for diverse portfolio of projects, including state assessments, continuous improvement, and internal Cognac initiatives (MSAA, BIE Science, VTCAP, Kentucky CIP, Lighthouse Item Migration, Open SciEd, Formative Content Library, Data Warehouse).
- Managed stakeholder communications to align project goals and expectations with all involved parties.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to enhance project execution and streamline processes.
- Cultivated partnerships with teams, vendors, and contractors to improve collaboration outcomes.
- Developed solutions addressing project risks and issues while meeting quality standards.
- Generated and monitored change orders and contractual modifications impacting budget and schedule.
Project Manager I
Cognac
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
01.2019 - 06.2020
- Managed scope encompassing pre-administration setup, test administration, post-administration data extraction, and online reporting for state summative contracts.
- Liaised with vendor partners, Cognac functional groups, and clients to align project goals and expectations.
- Contributed to development and execution of proposals, contracts, SOWs, project schedules, and change orders to support project objectives.
- Coordinated contract activities ensuring timely delivery of computer-based online assessments.
Program Manager I
Measured Progress (now Cognac)
Dover, New Hampshire
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Managed Maryland's Program under the Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) contract.
- Coordinated Maryland's involvement in MSAA, executing state-specific options including training, printed materials, onsite technology visits, and psychometric planning meetings.
- Developed and delivered on-site training for Maryland Test Coordinators on program policies and procedures, ensuring comprehensive understanding and implementation.
- Conducted regular meetings with team members to review progress and address any issues or concerns arising from the program execution process.
- Identified and proposed improvements in processes, procedures, and systems to enhance program delivery cycle.
- Collaborated with teams across departments to develop effective strategies for executing programs.
Technical and Product Support Specialist (now CCC)
Measured Progress (now Cognac)
Dover, New Hampshire
03.2012 - 01.2016
- Provided technical support to external clients for computer-based testing across multiple contracts and platforms, ensuring smooth operation and client satisfaction.
- Handled phone and email communication to resolve client issues with Measured Progress products and contracts, enhancing client experience.
- Utilized multiple ticketing software systems while cross-trained on three distinct helpdesks.
- Assisted in creating and maintaining documentation for policies and procedures for specific contracts, improving clarity and compliance.
- Provided training and assisted with onboarding of new Technical Support Specialists.
Education Coordinator
Our House for Girls
Dover, New Hampshire
04.2006 - 03.2012
- Coordinated educational placements/programs for group home residents in the least restrictive community school settings.
- Advocated for effective supports and interventions as a member of residents' IEP teams, fostering academic success and personal development.
- Facilitated SPED referrals for unrecognized residents facing academic and social challenges due to diverse disabilities and backgrounds, ensuring they received necessary support.
- Implemented and monitored individual plans to ensure residents made appropriate academic progress.
- Collaborated in professional meetings as a member of the Treatment Team to coordinate services for residents.
Education
B.A. - Psychology
University of New Hampshire
Durham, NH05-2003
Skills
- Project management
- Stakeholder engagement
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Organizational skills
- Time management
- Adaptability
- Effective communication
- Interpersonal skills
Honors And Awards
2003, Graduated Cum Laude, University of New Hampshire
2004, AmeriCorps NCCC, Class X
Certification
Certified ScrumMaster, Scrum Alliance
Timeline
Project Manager II
Cognac
07.2020 - Current
Project Manager I
Cognac
01.2019 - 06.2020
Program Manager I
Measured Progress (now Cognac)
01.2016 - 01.2019
Technical and Product Support Specialist (now CCC)
Measured Progress (now Cognac)
03.2012 - 01.2016
Education Coordinator
Our House for Girls
04.2006 - 03.2012
B.A. - Psychology
University of New Hampshire