Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Awards
References
Affiliations
Awards & Recognition
Timeline
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Tara Blevins

Edwardsville,USA

Summary

Experienced management and administrative professional with over 30 years in federal and corporate sectors. Skilled in operational efficiency, team leadership, and client relations, with an initiative-taking, results-driven approach.

Overview

33
33
years of professional experience

Work History

Executive Assistant

Sivia Law +Nine Other Companies
05.2023 - 11.2024
  • Hired by a community leader to organize, assist, coordinate, and communicate activities surrounding his ten business units.
  • Managed executive calendars, scheduling meetings and appointments and coordinating travel arrangements to optimize time across the ten companies.
  • Served as a poised and professional buffer between Attorney Sivia and employees, clients, service providers, tenants, consultants, and peers.
  • Promoted to the management team within five months of onboarding.
  • Actively engaged in weekly senior management meetings, providing directional input and contributing to decisions affecting the firm.
  • Accepted the added responsibility of managing six administrative employees across multiple business units.
  • Drafted and electronically filed legal documents with various courts.
  • Drafted, edited, witnessed and filed clients' estate planning documents.
  • Served as the Office Manager for the Edwardsville, IL location.

Executive Assistant

Transportation Security Administration
10.2012 - 03.2023
  • Served as the right hand to the Federal Security Director (FSD) overseeing STL and the eight airports in Missouri.
  • Delivered exceptional organizational support enabling executive focus on high-level strategic initiatives fostering company growth.
  • Worked independently with a high degree of tact and diplomacy.
  • Used advanced software to prepare documents, reports, and presentations.
  • Updated spreadsheets and databases to track, analyze, and report on performance data.
  • Facilitated training and onboarding for incoming staff.
  • Planned, coordinated, and hosted local events and nationwide and regional conferences.
  • Enhanced executive decision-making with comprehensive research and detailed reporting.
  • Chaired various committees to foster employee morale.
  • Routine functions included researching and preparing executive travel, drafting letters and overseeing confidential files.

Program Analyst

Transportation Security Administration, Human Capital
10.2016 - 12.2017
  • Served temporarily with the Office of, Human Capital (OHC) Workforce Assessment Branch on a team facilitating conversations surrounding best practices, lessons learned and corrective actions at airports across the nation.
  • Collected data on program efficacy through data analysis and implemented solutions for improvement.
  • Facilitated virtual, in-person and blended learning sessions.
  • Led change management initiatives to ensure smooth transitions during periods of organizational growth or restructuring.

Executive Assistant

Transportation Security Administration
06.2011 - 10.2012
  • Managed executive calendars, scheduling meetings and appointments and coordinated travel arrangements to optimize the Federal Security Director's (FSD) time.
  • Maintained confidentiality with sensitive documents, ensuring proper storage and distribution as needed.
  • Screened calls and emails and responded accordingly to support executive correspondence.
  • Organized and coordinated conferences and monthly meetings.
  • Supported executives in decision-making processes by conducting research and presenting findings in clear formats.
  • Used advanced software to prepare documents, reports, and presentations.
  • Created and managed office systems to efficiently deal with documentation.
  • Served as a liaison between departments to facilitate effective communication throughout the company.
  • Prepared and edited presentations on behalf of executives for both internal meetings and external conferences.
  • Fostered positive work environment, organizing team-building activities and events.

Program Analyst - Customer Service Manager

Transportation Security Administration
05.2009 - 06.2011
  • Reduced customer complaints, proactively addressing issues and implementing effective solutions.
  • Took ownership of customer issues and followed problems through to resolution.
  • Managed complex customer issues effectively, navigating multiple internal resources to identify and implement the best possible solutions.
  • Kept accurate records to document customer service actions and discussions.
  • Analyzed customer feedback data to identify trends and areas for improvement, driving continuous enhancement of services.
  • Improved team morale by establishing recognition program for exceptional customer service.

Executive Assistant - Legal

Transportation Security Administration
01.2011 - 08.2011
  • Served an eight-month detail with TSA’s Office of Chief Counsel (OCC) Dallas/Ft. Worth field office.
  • Assisted with legal actions for over 35 airports throughout Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality in handling sensitive client information, adhering to professional ethics guidelines.
  • Completed data entry of legal documents into electronic filing systems.
  • Generated documents and presentations using large repertoire of software programs.
  • Created and printed legal documents for attorneys to review.

Program Analyst - Communications

Transportation Security Administration
10.2010 - 12.2010
  • Served a 60-day detail at TSA Headquarters conceptualizing and developing communications tools and projects for nationwide dissemination.
  • Wrote and edited high-quality content and visually impactful programs under deadline pressure with exciting, captivating, and authentic approach.
  • Interviewed individuals by phone, video chat and in-person to write news stories.
  • Collaborated with editors to refine drafts, ensuring consistent tone and style across various platforms.
  • Adapted writing styles based on different platforms such as social media, blog posts, and print materials.
  • Completed accurate and polished formatting in line with publishing standards prior to submission.

Supervisory Transportation Security Officer (STSO)

Transportation Security Administration
09.2008 - 05.2009
  • Supervised a 24/7 operations hub; the Coordination and Communication Center.
  • Responded to emergencies and incidents at the passenger and baggage checkpoints and throughout the airport.
  • Created incident reports, consulted with the TSA Security Operations Center (TSOC) and Inspectors to ensure timely and accurate reporting of violations of CFR 49.
  • Oversaw and analyzed various security, operational and administrative programs to identify gaps and determine and prioritize needs.
  • Supervised daily airport security operations at DAL overseeing passenger and checked baggage checkpoints.
  • Ensured staffing was adequate by balancing scheduling, leave approval, and daily operational rosters.
  • Assigned daily tasks, monitored progress, and evaluated and reported personnel performance via monthly and annual reviews.

Supervisory Transportation Security Officer (STSO)

Transportation Security Administration
10.2002 - 09.2008
  • Ensured timely transportation operations by efficiently managing resources and addressing potential issues proactively.
  • Contributed to a safe travel environment by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of current threats and industry best practices.
  • Collaborated closely with airport stakeholders to maintain clear lines of communication regarding ongoing operations or emerging concerns.
  • Responded effectively to security incidents and provided guidance regarding security procedures.
  • Collected and reported daily operational metrics.
  • Certified as a TSA Approved Instructor (TAI)
  • Enhanced team performance by providing comprehensive training and conducting regular evaluations.
  • Led a team of security officers successfully through numerous audits and inspections, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Operated x-ray machines, hand wands, and advanced imaging technology to conduct screening of passengers and baggage.

Store Manager

American Video Center
03.1999 - 01.2001
  • Responsible for a German retail business operating under a multi-currency cash flow (Deutschmark, Euro, and US Dollar) with varying daily exchange rates.
  • Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
  • Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
  • Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
  • Performed recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Approved regular payroll submissions for employees.

Technical Writer & Office Manager

Harris Data Services Corporation (HDSC)
11.1992 - 08.1996
  • Authored, reviewed, and edited documentation for contractual software deliverables to the United States Air Force (USAF).
  • Simplified complex technical specifications into user-friendly guides, facilitating easier product adoption.
  • Coordinated with subject matter experts to verify the accuracy of technical content.
  • Coordinated office events and meetings, ensuring timely execution and optimal scheduling for all participants.
  • Supported department heads in accomplishing their goals through diligent administrative assistance such as report generation and data entry.
  • Facilitated smooth office relocations by meticulously planning and coordinating all aspects of move.

Manager & Administrator

GRiD Systems Corporation
09.1991 - 11.1992
  • Provided operational, administrative, and financial oversight to the St. Louis corporate location.
  • Successfully managed budgets and allocated resources to maximize productivity and profitability.
  • Oversaw inventory management, optimizing stock levels, and reducing waste.
  • Provided exceptional customer service to both internal and external stakeholders through prompt response times and thorough issue resolution efforts.
  • Coordinated company events and meetings to foster teamwork and boost employee morale.

Education

Certificate - DHS/TSA Homeland Security

Des Moines Area Community College
Online
01-2015

Certificate - DHS/TSA Homeland Security

St. Louis Community College
St. Louis, MO
01-2014

Business Administration/Marketing -

Southwestern Illinois College
Belleville, IL
01.1994

High School -

Triad High School
Troy, IL
05-1990

Skills

  • Project Coordination
  • Schedule & Calendar Planning
  • Event & Meeting Planning
  • Performance measurement
  • Information confidentiality
  • Travel administration
  • Email management
  • Legal administrative support
  • Team building & Conflict Resolution
  • Client Relations
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Time management abilities
  • Articulate and well-spoken
  • Staff Supervision
  • Resourceful
  • Expense documentation
  • Self-starter
  • AR/AP
  • Reliability
  • Spreadsheet trackingAdaptability
  • Microsoft Office Suite Skills

Awards

  • TSA’s Mid-Level Leadership Development Program Graduate, 2012
  • Supervisor of the Quarter, 2009
  • Valor Award, 2008
  • Security Award, 2007
  • Outstanding Performance Award, 2005

References

Available upon request.

Affiliations

  • Moose International Lodge 1561

Awards & Recognition

• TSA’s prestigious Mid-Level Leadership Development Program (MLDP) Graduate, 2012

• Recognition for contributions to Collaborative Strategies, 2011

• Supervisor of the Quarter, 2009

• Valor Award, 2008

• Security Award, 2007

• Screener of the Quarter 2006

• Outstanding Performance Award, 2005

• Outstanding Achievement Award, 2004

• Screener of the Quarter, 2003

• Appreciation Awards – Volunteerism, 1998

• USAF Achievement Award, Ada-COINS Project, 1995

Timeline

Executive Assistant

Sivia Law +Nine Other Companies
05.2023 - 11.2024

Program Analyst

Transportation Security Administration, Human Capital
10.2016 - 12.2017

Executive Assistant

Transportation Security Administration
10.2012 - 03.2023

Executive Assistant

Transportation Security Administration
06.2011 - 10.2012

Executive Assistant - Legal

Transportation Security Administration
01.2011 - 08.2011

Program Analyst - Communications

Transportation Security Administration
10.2010 - 12.2010

Program Analyst - Customer Service Manager

Transportation Security Administration
05.2009 - 06.2011

Supervisory Transportation Security Officer (STSO)

Transportation Security Administration
09.2008 - 05.2009

Supervisory Transportation Security Officer (STSO)

Transportation Security Administration
10.2002 - 09.2008

Store Manager

American Video Center
03.1999 - 01.2001

Technical Writer & Office Manager

Harris Data Services Corporation (HDSC)
11.1992 - 08.1996

Manager & Administrator

GRiD Systems Corporation
09.1991 - 11.1992

Business Administration/Marketing -

Southwestern Illinois College

Certificate - DHS/TSA Homeland Security

Des Moines Area Community College

Certificate - DHS/TSA Homeland Security

St. Louis Community College

High School -

Triad High School

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Tara Blevins