Susan Rutherford Estes
Affiliate Relations Specialist
Berthoud,CO
Summary
Skilled Association Specialist focused on maximizing Affiliate and member success through effective use of communication and advocacy abilities. Successful transition from association leadership to UniServ staff. Top-notch communicator with excellent time management, administrative and customer service skills. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Affiliate Relations Specialist
NEA Member Benefits
07.2016 - Current
- Developed strong relationships through consistent communication and attentive service.
- Increased sales revenue with targeted marketing campaigns and strategic product positioning.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals on time and within budget.
- Improved member satisfaction through proactive problem-solving and efficient complaint resolution.
- Implemented training programs for members, leading to higher member retention rates.
- Led successful presentations to prospective members, resulting in increased membership and participation in activities.
- Launched successful campaigns that drove brand awareness among target audiences.
- Interpreted members' needs and introduced products and services to fit specific requirements.
- Created and delivered presentations to internal and external stakeholders to showcase work.
- Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
- Developed and maintained relationships with Governance, Leaders and Staff in three State Education Associations (Colorado, Kansas and Nebraska)
- Developed and implemented generalized and topic specific trainings for union members each month
- Assisted union members in utilizing their member benefits Collaborated with SEA staff and Leaders on engagement activities
UniServ Director
Kentucky Education Association
09.2011 - 07.2016
- Enhanced communication between members and UniServ office by implementing a streamlined system for addressing concerns.
- Developed strong relationships with local union leaders to better support their needs and goals.
- Negotiated favorable contract terms for members, resulting in increased job security and satisfaction.
- Collaborated with district administrators to address issues affecting education professionals, promoting a positive work environment.
- Organized regular meetings with members to foster open dialogue and gather valuable feedback on desired improvements.
- Coordinated professional development opportunities for members, leading to enhanced skills and career growth.
- Advocated for fair compensation and benefits packages, ensuring the well-being of educators and support staff.
- Implemented successful recruitment strategies, increasing membership numbers and strengthening the organization''s influence.
- Worked closely with legal counsel to navigate complex labor disputes, protecting the interests of union members.
- Successful outcomes in grievance hearings
- Provided guidance to newly hired educators during orientation sessions, establishing a supportive network from day one.
- Conducted thorough investigations into allegations of misconduct or unfair treatment, ensuring objective resolutions were reached.
- Assisted union leaders in developing and implementing strategic plans for organizational growth and long-term success including Political Action, Site based Decision Making and identifying Education Friendly Candidates
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
Sullivan University
Lexington, KY1997
Bachelor of Science - Marketing
Sullivan University
Lexington1997
Master of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Phoenix
Tempe, AZ1999
Master of Arts - Special Education
Georgetown College
Georgetown, KY2002
Skills
- Association Relations
- Leadership Training and development
- Advanced communication
- Expert problem-solving/conflict resolution
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Project planning and management
- Creative thinking/Adaptability
- Strategic planning/Organization /Interpersonal skills
- Analytical Thinking
- Professional Networking
- Promotional Campaigns
- Information Gathering
- Public Relations
- Newsletter Development
- Presentation Materials
- Communication Strategies
- Event Coverage
- Reputation Management
- Brand Messaging
- Corporate Events Planning
- Stakeholder Communications
- Coordinate Events
- Negotiation
- Scheduling
Timeline
Affiliate Relations Specialist
NEA Member Benefits
07.2016 - Current
UniServ Director
Kentucky Education Association
09.2011 - 07.2016
Bachelor of Science - Business Management
Sullivan University
Bachelor of Science - Marketing
Sullivan University
Master of Arts - Elementary Education
University of Phoenix
Master of Arts - Special Education
Georgetown College
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