Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Awards
References
Timeline
Generic
SARAH A. BURRAGE, PhD

SARAH A. BURRAGE, PhD

Canton,MS

Summary

Innovative and forward-thinking professional with a strong track record in training, organizational development, program management, and leadership. With over a decade of experience, consistently demonstrating the ability to solve complex problems and think strategically to achieve impactful results. Strong problem-solving abilities with expertise in directing teams of professionals in high-volume settings. Known for great attention to detail and strong interpersonal communication skills. Excels at multitasking and liaising with various departments.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Senior Training Program Specialist (PMO) – Business Innovations

Magellan Health
02.2022 - Current
  • Achieved successful outcomes for multiple projects through effective project management and collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Improved overall program effectiveness through comprehensive data analysis and evaluation of key performance indicators.
  • Conducted thorough needs assessments to identify gaps in service delivery and inform program development efforts.
  • Evaluated program operations, successes and deficiencies to identify concerns and recommend strategies to enhance processes and elevate results.
  • Design, develop, implement, and evaluate program-wide learning solutions f
  • Streamlined communication channels between departments, enhancing overall organizational workflow efficiency as it pertains to the execution of assigned projects.
  • Ensured compliance with relevant regulations throughout all stages of program implementation by closely monitoring adherence to established guidelines.
  • Built strong relationships with external partners to secure resources and support necessary for program success.
  • Established a robust system for tracking and reporting on key performance indicators, allowing for a data-driven approach to program enhancements.
  • Facilitated cross-functional team collaborations, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation.
  • Enhanced program efficiency by streamlining processes and implementing innovative strategies.
  • Developed comprehensive business cases for proposed innovations, ensuring alignment with long-term strategic objectives.
  • Identified emerging trends and technologies, positioning the company as an industry leader in innovative solutions.
  • Enhanced innovation strategies by implementing cross-functional collaboration and ideation sessions.
  • Championed a culture of continuous improvement by establishing innovation workshops and training programs.
  • Conducted market research to identify new opportunities and target markets.
  • Coordinated with design and media teams to develop high-quality creative assets.
  • Authored several White Paper Publications (i.e.; MFED Inform - Suicide Prevention: Combating Suicide Through the Implementation of a Peer-to-Peer Prevention Program).

Restoration 1 - Restoration & Construction Services

Contractor
01.2021 - 05.2022
  • Conducted root cause analysis to identify areas for improvement, implementing solutions that led to significant cost savings and process enhancements.
  • Mobilized problem-solving teams and supporting groups to streamline processes and drive clear business improvement.
  • Mentored team members on continuous improvement principles, enhancing their skills and promoting a culture of excellence within the organization.
  • Standardized organizational processes for consistency and ease of replication across departments.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency by identifying and implementing process improvement strategies.
  • Assessed existing workflows to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, recommending changes that increased overall throughput.

The Doty Group of Keller Williams – Real Estate Team

Contractor
01.2021 - 01.2022
  • Developed and maintained comprehensive documentation of internal procedures, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
  • Provided team with tools to complete deliverables.
  • Improved contract management systems, resulting in increased compliance and more efficient tracking of deliverables.
  • Improved efficiency of contract management processes through the implementation of a centralized database system.
  • Enhanced transparency in the contracting process by creating user-friendly templates and guidelines for internal stakeholders.
  • Analyzed new laws and regulations to identify required changes and proactively adjust systems.
  • Proactively identified potential contractual issues, addressing them before they escalated into more significant problems.

Next Home Realty Experience - Brokerage

Contractor
01.2020 - 01.2021
  • Developed and implemented quality control plans for real estate investment (REI) and property management departments to mitigate risks.
  • Evaluated client needs and expectations, establishing clear goals for each consulting engagement.
  • Identified areas of improvement for clients'' operations, implementing targeted solutions to increase productivity.
  • Developed innovative strategies for clients, resulting in increased revenue and business growth.
  • Integrated technology and business operations to identify targeted solutions to customer issues.
  • Streamlined internal processes to enhance team efficiency and improve overall project outcomes.
  • Aligned closely with business owners and employees to gather information and gain operational insight.
  • Prepared presentations to explain revisions, enhancements and process improvements of organization's systems and programs.

Senior Project Manager, Leader & Team Performance (Rotational Role – Management)

Entergy Nuclear - Utility Company
11.2019 - 07.2020
  • Leveraged diagnostic tools and methodologies to support effective organizational and leadership performance to identify risks.
  • Built high-performing teams through the development and implementations of various leadership programs.
  • Implemented data-driven strategies to monitor key performance indicators, leading to continuous process improvements.
  • Conducted 360-degree feedback assessments for leaders to gain insights into their areas of improvement and development opportunities.
  • Fostered a culture of continuous learning within organizations by creating accessible resources/materials focused on professional development.
  • Developed comprehensive training programs for managers, resulting in improved team performance and collaboration.
  • Enhanced employee leadership skills by conducting personalized coaching sessions and assessments.
  • Implemented individual development plans for high-potential employees, preparing them for future leadership roles within the organization.
  • Provided one-on-one executive coaching services supporting career transition periods or specific developmental needs of leaders at various levels within organizations.
  • Collaborated with HR departments to create succession planning strategies, ensuring the organization''s future leadership pipeline.
  • Utilized psychometric tools such as The Predictive Index assessments to provide valuable insights into individual personality types and preferred communication styles within teams.
  • Facilitated group coaching sessions to foster teamwork, enhance communication skills, and improve problem-solving abilities among team members.
  • Measured program effectiveness through ongoing evaluations and feedback from participants, continuously improving content delivery methods.
  • Evaluated organizational structures and provided recommendations to streamline processes, increasing overall efficiency.
  • Supported the integration of new leaders into organizations through targeted coaching interventions designed to accelerate their adjustment period and ensure long-term success in their roles.
  • Identified skill gaps in leadership teams and provided tailored coaching to address weaknesses and capitalize on strengths.

Organizational Effectiveness Consultant (Management)

Entergy Nuclear - Utility Company
07.2017 - 11.2019
  • Enhanced organizational effectiveness through careful monitoring of industry best practices and adjusting internal strategies accordingly.
  • Enhanced organizational performance by conducting comprehensive assessments and providing tailored recommendations for improvement.
  • Provided coaching services to individuals seeking professional growth and career advancement opportunities within their organizations.
  • Leveraged outstanding analytical and problem-solving abilities to identify the root causes of organizational challenges and develop effective solutions.
  • Liaised with others to set goals, resolve problems and make decisions that enhanced organizational effectiveness.
  • Contributed to the development of policies and procedures that increased overall organizational effectiveness in supporting business needs.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance overall organizational effectiveness through targeted talent management strategies.
  • Contributed ideas during strategic planning sessions aimed at improving organizational effectiveness within the Human Resources department.
  • Led cross-functional teams to collaborate on projects and leadership assessments, improving overall organizational effectiveness and communication.
  • Participated actively in company-wide initiatives aimed at enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.
  • Leveraged data-driven insights to inform decision-making processes and optimize organizational effectiveness.
  • Participated in continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.
  • Counseled managers on best practices regarding performance management processes related to diverse workforces, improving overall organizational effectiveness.
  • Enhanced organizational effectiveness by conducting thorough assessments and implementing customized OD interventions.
  • Facilitated conflict resolution among employees, promoting open dialogue, mutual understanding, and productive working relationships.
  • Ensured compliance with industry standards by conducting regular audits of organizational practices, policies, procedures.
  • Supported leaders in the execution of their strategic objectives by offering expert guidance on best practices for organizational development.

New Learning Resources - Educational Service Provider

Contractor
01.2015 - 01.2019
  • Served as a subject matter expert on both regional and specialized accreditations within the organization.
  • Managed the collection, analysis, and reporting of data related to accreditation standards, driving evidence-based decision making.
  • Enhanced accreditation processes by streamlining documentation and implementing efficient tracking systems.
  • Reviewed accreditation standards and evaluated compliance, identified challenges and proposed solutions.
  • Evaluated institutional policies, procedures, and outcomes against established benchmarks for quality assurance purposes.
  • Identified areas where additional resources were needed for successful completion of accreditation reviews, advocating for necessary support from institutional leadership.
  • Coordinated site visits from external reviewers during the accreditation process, preparing materials and logistical arrangements as required.
  • Assisted in the development of self-evaluation report (SER) materials to showcase program achievements during the accreditation review process.
  • Facilitated successful re-accreditation efforts by collaborating with stakeholders to address areas of improvement identified during reviews.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop action plans for addressing areas of non-compliance identified during internal or external reviews.
  • Ensured accuracy of accreditation reports, maintaining up-to-date records and tracking progress towards specific goals.

Senior Training Specialist

Entergy - Utility Company
07.2014 - 07.2017
  • Enhanced employee performance and promoted risk management through the development and implementation of comprehensive technical training programs.
  • Designed and implemented technical training, compliance and safety training programs.
  • Developed comprehensive training manuals and user guides to support ongoing learning for staff members.
  • Optimized instructional design processes by implementing industry best practices and staying current on emerging trends.
  • Contributed to organizational growth by consistently delivering high-quality technical curriculum that met or exceeded expectations.
  • Facilitated open forums and feedback sessions with trainees post-training implementation leading in better understanding.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to strict deadlines and quality standards for course development deliverables.
  • Supported diverse learning styles with multimodal instructional materials, including video tutorials, written guides, and interactive quizzes.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of training initiatives, adjusting strategies as needed to improve overall results.
  • Enhanced company productivity by identifying skill gaps and customizing training materials to address them.
  • Conducted needs assessments to identify gaps in performance and develop targeted learning solutions.
  • Utilized variety of instructional design methodologies to create effective learning experiences.
  • Worked with vendors to customize courseware to accommodate business needs.
  • Investigated accidents and incidents, recommending training specific corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
  • Increased employee awareness of safety protocols by creating engaging educational materials and presentations.
  • Developed and executed safety awareness campaigns, promoting a proactive approach to risk identification and mitigation among employees at all levels of the organization.
  • Collaborated with management to develop and enforce safety policies and procedures, resulting in a safer work environment.
  • Reduced employee injuries through the development and implementation of comprehensive safety training programs.
  • Collaborated with other departments to integrate safety in all aspects of organization.
  • Assisted in analyzing and assessing training and development needs for organizations, departments and individuals.

Director of Curriculum Development

New Learning Resources - Educational Service Provider
02.2008 - 07.2014
  • Enhanced overall curriculum quality by leading the development and implementation of innovative educational programs.
  • Assessed contractor performance to ensure quality control standards and contractual requirements were being met.
  • Developed and led programming implementation aligned with federal and foundational grants.
  • Oversaw education services to ensure compliance with federal regulations and equitable support for all student
  • Streamlined curriculum design process for improved efficiency, resulting in more time for teacher support and development.
  • Managed budgets allocated for curricular resources, maximizing impact while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
  • Enhanced curriculum quality by conducting thorough evaluations and implementing effective improvements.
  • Developed a comprehensive curriculum framework, ensuring alignment with state standards and best practices.
  • Implemented strategies to increase student recruiting, engagement and retention.
  • Guided and supported faculty and staff in development of new programs.
  • Developed comprehensive strategic plans that outlined key objectives for continuous growth in academic achievement levels over time while aligning with institutional vision and mission statements.
  • Improved graduation rates through the implementation of academic support services, personalized learning plans, and data-driven interventions.
  • Spearheaded accreditation processes that resulted in maintained or improved institutional standings with accrediting bodies.
  • Evaluated instructional material for alignment with educational standards, driving consistent high-quality education across all subject areas.
  • Facilitated cross-departmental collaboration on curricula design projects resulting in more cohesive lesson plans aligned with national educational standards.
  • Provided expert guidance and oversight on accreditation requirements, enabling departments to maintain high levels of quality and performance.
  • Spearheaded grant writing efforts that secured funding for supplemental programs targeting at-risk populations and academic enrichment initiatives.

Education

Ph.D. - Education

Capella University
Minneapolis
05.2014

Master of Arts - Youth And Family

Lee University
Cleveland
08.2008

Bachelor of Arts - General Studies

Belhaven University
Jackson
12.2006

Skills

  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Assimilation (HR)
  • Articulate
  • Audit & Compliance
  • Behavioral Assessments
  • Adobe Captivate
  • Change Management
  • Clinical Research Proficiency
  • Communication
  • Content Development
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Customer Relations
  • Curriculum Development
  • Distance Learning
  • Employee Development
  • Executive Coaching
  • Evaluations/Assessments
  • Gap/Needs Analyses
  • Governance & Oversight
  • Instructional Design
  • KPIs/Metrics
  • Leadership Development
  • Learning Management Systems
  • Microsoft Programs Proficiency
  • Operational Management
  • Performance Improvement
  • Problem-Solving
  • Procedure Writing
  • Program Management
  • Project Management
  • Safety & Quality Management
  • Research Writing
  • Root Cause Evaluations
  • Salesforce
  • ServiceNow
  • SPSS
  • Strategic Planning
  • SuccessFactors
  • Talent Management
  • Team Building
  • Technical, Corporate, & HR Training
  • Technology Integration

Certification

  • Adobe E-Learning Certification - Lodestone
  • Articulate Certification
  • MS Real Estate Agent - Mississippi Realtors Institute
  • SSI Master Diver - Scuba School International
  • Corporate Functional Area Manager Training Certification
  • Compliance Management Training Certification
  • INPO Leadership Effectiveness Attributes Training Certification
  • Organizational Development and Effectiveness Training Certification
  • Powerful Public Speaking Certification
  • Predictive Indexing Practitioner – The Predictive Group
  • MBTI Practitioner
  • Corporate Functional Area Management (CFAM) Certification

Awards

  • Impact Awards – Entergy
  • Recognized as an industry leader who has gone above and beyond; and whose efforts are notably effective in advancing the mission and goals, while showing extraordinary character and drive. Lead development and implementation of the Organizational Effectiveness Model in 2018. Improve performance at Arkansas Nuclear Plant in 2018. Onboarding new department in the HR organization in 2017. Developing and Managing the Gas Distribution Technical Training Program in 2017. McComb Safety Incident Team in 2014 and Flash Mitigation Safety Team in 2016 & 2017
  • Excellence Award - New Learning Resources
  • Recognized for hard work and dedication to the company while spearheading the College Preparatory and Career Pathway program development and implementation resulting in obtaining full academic accreditation in 2013
  • Leadership Award - New Learning Resources
  • Awarded for exemplifying outstanding leadership skills in 2011

References

References Upon Request

Timeline

Senior Training Program Specialist (PMO) – Business Innovations

Magellan Health
02.2022 - Current

Restoration 1 - Restoration & Construction Services

Contractor
01.2021 - 05.2022

The Doty Group of Keller Williams – Real Estate Team

Contractor
01.2021 - 01.2022

Next Home Realty Experience - Brokerage

Contractor
01.2020 - 01.2021

Senior Project Manager, Leader & Team Performance (Rotational Role – Management)

Entergy Nuclear - Utility Company
11.2019 - 07.2020

Organizational Effectiveness Consultant (Management)

Entergy Nuclear - Utility Company
07.2017 - 11.2019

New Learning Resources - Educational Service Provider

Contractor
01.2015 - 01.2019

Senior Training Specialist

Entergy - Utility Company
07.2014 - 07.2017

Director of Curriculum Development

New Learning Resources - Educational Service Provider
02.2008 - 07.2014

Ph.D. - Education

Capella University

Master of Arts - Youth And Family

Lee University

Bachelor of Arts - General Studies

Belhaven University
  • Adobe E-Learning Certification - Lodestone
  • Articulate Certification
  • MS Real Estate Agent - Mississippi Realtors Institute
  • SSI Master Diver - Scuba School International
  • Corporate Functional Area Manager Training Certification
  • Compliance Management Training Certification
  • INPO Leadership Effectiveness Attributes Training Certification
  • Organizational Development and Effectiveness Training Certification
  • Powerful Public Speaking Certification
  • Predictive Indexing Practitioner – The Predictive Group
  • MBTI Practitioner
  • Corporate Functional Area Management (CFAM) Certification
SARAH A. BURRAGE, PhD