Hi, I’m
Tara Smith
Public administrator
Tacoma,WA
Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.
Theodore Roosevelt
Summary
Results-driven leader with strong background in strategic management and organizational growth. Skilled in developing and implementing effective business strategies, optimizing processes, and driving team performance. Known for adaptability, effective collaboration, and delivering measurable outcomes in dynamic environments. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities, coupled with focus on fostering productive and positive team culture.
Overview
21
years of professional experience
Work History
State Of Washington
Director, Department of Enterprise Services
09.2021 - 01.2025
Job overview
- Led cross-functional teams to drive process improvements and optimize resource allocation.
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency across multiple departments.
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and support project execution.
- Oversaw budget management, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives while maximizing return on investment.
- Directed change management efforts, successfully navigating organizational challenges while maintaining employee engagement.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
- Cultivated a positive work environment that fostered employee engagement, increased retention rates, and boosted overall team morale.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.
- Enhanced data-driven decision-making by implementing advanced analytics and reporting tools.
Miami-Dade County
Director, Department of Internal Services
05.2015 - 07.2021
Job overview
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency across multiple departments.
- Analyzed market trends to inform decision-making and align organizational goals with industry standards.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Improved project efficiency with strategic planning, resource allocation, and time management practices.
- Implemented innovative solutions to solve complex problems, resulting in increased productivity and streamlined operations.
Miami-Dade County
Assistant Director, Design and Construction
11.2013 - 05.2015
Job overview
- Oversaw the divisions of Facilities and Utilities Management, Real Estate Development, Design and Construction Services, and the Office of ADA Compliance.
- Acted as Director-designee over all aspects of the Department as needed on behalf of the Director.
- Directed major and minor capital improvement and construction renovation projects to ensure compliance with county building codes, state and federal laws;
- Responsible for the development and fiscal management of new vertical construction and renovation of existing facilities, including but not limited to roofs, interior design, space planning, and signage.
Miami-Dade County
Additional work history available
07.2004 - 11.2013
Job overview
- Progressively responsible leadership positions across county government
Education
Florida International UniversityMiami, FL
Bachelor of Science from Social Work
Florida International UniversityMiami
Master of Science from Public Administration
07-2004
Skills
- Strategic planning
- Decision-making
- People management
- Organizational development
- Change management
- Cross-functional team management
Accomplishments
- Managed 1,000 employees, a $300m operating budget, and a $1.2 billion capital budget
- Developed and implemented mandatory DEI training to 68,000 employees across state government
- Implemented the first supplier diversity procurement policy across state government
- Named Agency of the Year 2024 by Northwest Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council
Affiliations
- National Association of State Chief Administrators
- American Society for Public Administration
- Project Management Institute
Timeline
Director, Department of Enterprise Services
State Of Washington
09.2021 - 01.2025
Director, Department of Internal Services
Miami-Dade County
05.2015 - 07.2021
Assistant Director, Design and Construction
Miami-Dade County
11.2013 - 05.2015
Additional work history available
Miami-Dade County
07.2004 - 11.2013
Florida International University
Bachelor of Science from Social Work
Florida International University
Master of Science from Public Administration
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