Sue Pagani
Stafford,United States
Summary
Experienced Deputy Chief of Staff specializing in Criminal Investigative Organizations, with a proven history of leading strategic initiatives to enhance investigative operations and improve organizational effectiveness. Skilled in optimizing resource management, streamlining investigative processes, and driving policy development to support law enforcement goals. Recognized for strategic vision, operational excellence, and unwavering dedication to organizational mission.
Results-driven professional with track record in high-level administrative roles. Proven capability to streamline operations and enhance organizational performance. Valued for collaborative approach and adaptability, excelling in strategic planning and stakeholder management.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Chief of Staff
Army Criminal Investigations Division
04.2024 - Current
- Currently serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff for the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), responsible for ensuring operational efficiency and effectiveness within the Office of the Chief of Staff
- Act as a trusted adviser to the Chief of Staff, representing executive leadership in strategic initiatives and high-priority projects that align with CID’s mission and strategic vision
- Skilled in building and maintaining collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders, effectively coordinating efforts across various offices and departments
- Lead research, analysis, and evaluation of information impacting CID-wide operations, contributing to strategic planning, policy development, and problem resolution as a senior staff member
- Proactively anticipate and address issues of significance, ensuring the timely communication of critical updates to executive leaders
- Provide comprehensive oversight and development of matters requiring executive attention, including responding to inquiries and deputizing for the Chief of Staff when necessary
- Coordinate and prepare special reports, briefings, and presentations, while crafting executive communications to support leadership messaging
- Manage administrative functions, including cost analysis, financial oversight, and executive expense management
- Oversee the supervision and development of assigned personnel, setting priorities, directing work plans, and recommending program enhancements as needed
- Committed to fostering a culture of service, professionalism, and continuous improvement
- Dynamic leader dedicated to advancing CID’s strategic objectives through strategic leadership, operational excellence, and a commitment to organizational integrity
Deputy Assistant Director, Business Operations Directorate
Army Criminal Investigation Division
06.2022 - 04.2024
- Charged with leading strategic initiatives to enhance mission support productivity, program efficiency, and operational effectiveness
- Responsible for developing long-term goals and strategic objectives across multiple mission support portfolios
- Facilitated communication across organizational elements to ensure mutual understanding and unity of purpose
- Provided strategic direction, executive guidance, and leadership to ensure effective tasking, issue resolution, and management support
- Authored executive-level communications and ensured accuracy and compliance with departmental and agency policies
- Led a team of agile professionals focused on enterprise transformation through business efficiencies and process improvement
- Maintained equitable performance standards and promoted sound personnel management practices
- Key achievements included: Standardization of Law Enforcement Gear: Led implementation a $3M procurement initiative to standardize body armor and professional law enforcement ensembles for Special Agent cadre
- Virtual Storefront Deployment: Led deployment of the Battlefield Airmen Rapid Resource and Replenishment System, a virtual warehousing system to enhance asset tracking and management of law enforcement gear and crime scene supplies
- Business Analytics Integration: Led team of business analytics professionals through design and implementation of manpower and force structure dashboards as well as integration of MS365 Power Apps to streamline Human Resource RPA actions
- Consistently delivered high-quality management services essential to the efficient operations of the directorate, offering strategic advice, guidance, and support to managers, supervisors, and employees, with a strong emphasis on innovation and customer service excellence
Administrative Officer
Naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters
08.2017 - 06.2022
- Responsible for overseeing budget formulation, staffing, equipment management, planning, and organizational changes impacting the directorate
- Served as the primary advisor to the Executive Assistant Director and Assistant Director, ensuring operational efficiency and strategic alignment with organizational goals
- Managed a $12 million budget, collaborating with Resource Management Departments for effective budget formulation and funding allocation
- Ensured compliance with internal control systems and financial regulations, while optimizing procurement strategies and contractual actions
- Led the development of administrative business plans, procedures, and guidelines, identifying opportunities for innovation and implementing cross-functional capabilities with stakeholders
- Provided expert guidance on business operations, including funding, staffing, training, and equipment, ensuring seamless coordination and communication across the organization
- Supervised a team of three, maintaining equity in workload distribution and leading the team to receive two Ai2 Innovation Awards and the Civilian of the Year award in 2021
- Demonstrated strategic leadership, operational efficiency, and a commitment to organizational excellence and innovation
- Key achievements included: Automated Reporting Systems: Reduced man-hours by 100% through automating the interface between NCIS’s report writing system (CLEOC) and the Defense Central Index of Investigations (DCII)
- Standardization of Law Enforcement Gear: Managed a $2M project to standardize and equip Special Agents with professional law enforcement gear
- Virtual Retail Store Deployment: Launched the Battlefield Airmen Rapid Resource and Replenishment System to streamline procurement of standardized law enforcement equipment
- COVID Space Modernization: Executed space modernization initiatives, including Hotel Seating, Task Force rooms, and Continuity Operations Plan (COOP) designated areas, supporting the Under Secretary of Navy’s directives
- Innovation and Recognition: Recognized for AI-driven innovation, earning two Ai2 Innovation Impact Awards and contributing to the Department of Navy Business Operations Plan (2020-2022)
Office Manager
Naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters
01.2017 - 08.2017
- Responsible for ensuring operational efficiency and effectiveness within the Office of the Chief of Staff
- Charged with providing comprehensive administrative support to Senior Executive personnel
- Ensured efficient management of schedules, meetings, and special commitments, while delivering technical guidance on administrative policies and written correspondence to achieve organizational objectives
- Coordinated high-level staff actions and strategic initiatives, optimizing mission execution and operational effectiveness
- Reviewed and appraised subordinate work for Chief of Staff’s signature, decision-making, and coordination within the Task Management System
- Managed budget formulation and financial management in collaboration with the comptroller, ensuring effective utilization of funds and personnel within the executive suite
- Maintained strong working relationships with foreign government officials, federal agencies, and key stakeholders, serving as the primary point of contact for the Chief of Staff
- Utilized the Personnel Status Report database to manage personnel transfers and reallocations
- Ensured compliance with NCISHQ policies and the Inspection/Staff Assistance Program by generating weekly administrative and accounting reports, maintaining oversight of fiscal distributions, billet structure, and discrepancy resolutions
- Recognized for exceptional organizational skills and effective communication, contributing to the overall efficiency and success of the NCIS Headquarters' mission and strategic objectives
Office Manager
Naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters
11.2015 - 01.2017
- Provided comprehensive administrative management and operational support, ensuring efficient coordination of departmental activities and strategic alignment with organizational objectives
- Generated weekly administrative and accounting reports for the DAD, maintaining accurate fiscal distributions, managing the department’s billet structure, and resolving discrepancies in compliance with NCISHQ procedures
- Utilized office automation systems and custom software applications to support daily operations and optimize workflow efficiency
- Coordinated meetings, appointments, and special commitments for the DAD and subordinate staff, ensuring seamless synchronization of administrative actions across the directorate
- Maintained consistency in policy implementation and administrative processes, enhancing organizational coherence and operational effectiveness
- Developed and sustained long-term relationships with internal and external high-level military and civilian government officials, contractors, consultants, and business executives to advance the department's mission and strategic initiatives
- Recognized for strategic planning, organizational efficiency, and strong communication skills, contributing to the overall success and mission readiness of the Security & Facilities Department at NCIS Headquarters
Program Support Assistant
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
06.2014 - 11.2015
- Responsible for supporting investigative operations and ensuring accurate case management and administrative efficiency
- Managed the dispatch of closed case reports to the NCIS Records Management Branch for imaging and retention, including preparing certification cover sheets for Supervisory Agent approval
- Coordinated evidence processing by verifying the nature of evidence for destruction and ensuring the completion of appellate procedures before case file disposal
- Conducted monthly case file destruction inventories to maintain compliance with regulatory standards
- Supported investigative operations by analyzing reports and active leads within case management systems, facilitating the organization and distribution of reports
- Maintained detailed travel authorizations, certified Defense Travel System vouchers, and managed government vehicle records for monthly fleet reconciliation
- Utilized multiple law enforcement databases to provide research, analysis, and support to special agents in criminal investigations
- Created case file analysis and trend reports using VITALS for evaluation by the Supervisory Special Agent and case agents
- Ensured compliance with NCIS, Regional Legal Services, and law enforcement policies in the development and issuance of investigative case reports
- Operated the Aircraft and Personnel Automated Clearance System to assist agents with international country clearance procedures
- Streamlined lead distribution in the Consolidated Law Enforcement Operations Center database by effectively analyzing and assigning active leads to the Supervisory Special Agent
- Recognized for exceptional organizational skills, analytical capabilities, and comprehensive knowledge of law enforcement support functions, contributing to the operational effectiveness of the NCIS Norfolk Field Office
Program Analyst
412th Mission Support Group
04.2013 - 06.2014
- Provided executive assistance to the Commander, supporting four subordinate commands in engineering, security, mission support, logistics, and deployment readiness
- Managed delegation and assignment of Higher Headquarters directives, ensuring sensitive and classified document control
- Coordinated performance evaluations, decorations, and award programs for over 400 active-duty personnel
- Organized official meetings and events, ensuring adherence to military protocol and coordination with external agencies
- Served as lead AcqDemo pay pool administrator for nearly 400 employees, managing one of the largest pay pools on the installation
- Maintained the Commander’s calendar, facilitated communication with internal and external stakeholders, and managed day-to-day administrative operations
Administrative Assistant
412th Security Forces Squadron
08.2011 - 04.2013
- Principal executive assistant to the Commander of the 412th Security Forces Squadron
- Responsible for coordinating executive correspondence, reports, and official documentation
- Coordinated and reviewed Enlisted and Officer performance reports, decorations, and annual award programs for over 400 personnel
- Managed official travel arrangements and Defense Travel System (DTS) authorizations and served as an alternate reviewing official
- Acted as lead AcqDemo sub-pay pool administrator, ensuring compliance with civilian personnel appraisal systems
- Organized Commanders’ meetings and events, including visits from state and local law enforcement officials
- Supervised timekeeping for 39 civilian police officers and managed the Commander’s calendar and daily administrative operations
Administrative Assistant
95th Communications Squadron
02.2011 - 08.2011
- Principal administrative assistant to the Commander and Deputy Director of the 95th Communications Squadron
- Overseeing all correspondence and administrative operations
- Maintained SharePoint sites for command tracking and executive reviews, ensuring timely updates and communication
- Managed records using the Air Force Records Management system as the appointed Records Custodian
- Coordinated travel documentation and approved DTS orders on behalf of the squadron
- Supervised timekeeping for over 75 civilians and organized command ceremonies and events
- Ensured classified document control and compliance with Security and Privacy Act provisions
Administrative Assistant
Nuclear Operations Division A3N
08.2008 - 12.2010
- Principal administrative assistant to the Nuclear Operations Division, Ramstein Air Base, Germany supporting sensitive operations and record-keeping duties
- Managed NIPR/SIPR taskers, directives, and correspondence while ensuring compliance with security regulations
- Coordinated Enlisted and Officer Performance Reports and Decorations with the Air Force Personnel Center
- Planned and executed visits for distinguished domestic and foreign officials, including international travel arrangements
- Served as the primary reviewing official for Defense Travel System transactions and maintained the Commander’s calendar
- Ensured control of sensitive and classified documentation while effectively managing day-to-day operations
Education
Bachelor’s degree - business administration
Ashford University Online
Newport News, VA01.2017
Associates degree - paralegal studies
Everest University Online
Orlando, FL01.2010
Skills
- Strategic Thinking
- Exceptional Communication
- Collaborative Leadership
- Operational Expertise
- Adaptability
- Interpersonal Skills
- Organizational Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Data Gathering
- Report Preparation
- Task Prioritization
- Research Skills
- Writing Skills
- Oral Communication
- Team Building
- Supervision
- Training
- Organizing Work Assignments
- Re-engineering Operations
- Policy Formulation
- Strategy Development
- Confidentiality Maintenance
Key Skills And Abilities
- Strategic Thinker: Ability to think critically and strategically, with a deep understanding of the organization's goals, priorities, and challenges.
- Exceptional Communicator: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear, concise language.
- Collaborative Leader: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with various stakeholders, including staff, executives, and external partners.
- Operational Expertise: Familiarity with organizational operations, including budgeting, planning, and project management.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, with a willingness to adapt to changing priorities and circumstances.
Professional References
- Karen Spidell, Chief of Staff, Army Criminal Investigation Division, 27130 Telegraph Road, Quantico, VA, 22134, kare.l.spidell.civ@army.mil
- Rob Matthews, Colonel, Military Police (Ret.), Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives Group, Army Criminal Investigation Division, 27130 Telegraph Road, Quantico, VA, 22134, robert.w.matthews.civ@army.mil
- NCIS Headquarters, Criminal Investigations & Operations Directorate, 27130 Telegraph Road, Quantico, VA, 22134, 571-882-3531, kurt.thomas@ncis.navy.mil
Security Clearance
ANACI Secret Clearance, Top Secret (TS) security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Access (SCI)
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Deputy Chief of Staff
Army Criminal Investigations Division
04.2024 - Current
Deputy Assistant Director, Business Operations Directorate
Army Criminal Investigation Division
06.2022 - 04.2024
Administrative Officer
Naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters
08.2017 - 06.2022
Office Manager
Naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters
01.2017 - 08.2017
Office Manager
Naval Criminal Investigative Service Headquarters
11.2015 - 01.2017
Program Support Assistant
Naval Criminal Investigative Service
06.2014 - 11.2015
Program Analyst
412th Mission Support Group
04.2013 - 06.2014
Administrative Assistant
412th Security Forces Squadron
08.2011 - 04.2013
Administrative Assistant
95th Communications Squadron
02.2011 - 08.2011
Administrative Assistant
Nuclear Operations Division A3N
08.2008 - 12.2010
Associates degree - paralegal studies
Everest University Online
Bachelor’s degree - business administration
Ashford University Online
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