THOMAS STRAUT - COLLARD
Brooklyn,NY
Summary
Operations and finance expert specializing in scaling systems, automating processes, and driving cross-functional collaboration to deliver measurable outcomes. Proven ability to lead data-driven solutions and strategic initiatives across diverse industries.
Results-driven partnership leader with extensive experience in forging strategic alliances and driving business growth. Skilled in negotiation, relationship management, and cross-functional team leadership. Known for adaptability, strong communication, and collaborative approach to achieving organizational goals. Prepared to leverage proven expertise to enhance institutional initiatives and deliver impactful outcomes.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Partnership & Sales Operations
Relay Graduate School of Education
08.2022 - Current
- Designed, built, and maintained data systems to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and transparency across operations.
- Led cross-functional efforts to evaluate, design, and implement a centralized CRM system (Slate), improving partner engagement and reporting efficiencies for over 1,100 active partner opportunities.
- Developed data-driven communication tools, dashboards, reports, and portals for partner management and instructional teams supporting partners.
- Successfully oversaw complex contract negotiations leading to more favorable terms for both parties involved.
- Provided ongoing support to partners by addressing concerns promptly, resulting in increased trust and loyalty.
- Collaborated across teams, including Instructional Teams, Finance, Technology, Marketing, and Admissions, to enhance operational synergy.
Senior Manager of Strategy & Operations
Relay Graduate School of Education
11.2019 - 08.2022
- Spearheaded teacher preparation programming aligned with the organization’s strategic plan, impacting 65 returning partners and 1,500+ students in New York State.
- Identified and mitigated risks across a $1.8M non-personnel budget.
- Maintained proactive and efficient region-wide operations, ensuring consistent program delivery and partnership success.
- Provided strong leadership to enhance team productivity.
- Managed large-scale projects and introduced new systems, tools, and processes to achieve regional success.
Manager of Operations
Relay Graduate School of Education
01.2019 - 11.2021
- Oversaw 30+ classes for logistics, course sequencing, staffing, and communications, ensuring seamless program execution for the largest Relay region.
- Trained and supervised 5 staff to support summer programming.
- Established positive and effective communication among staff and organization leadership which improved communications and executions.
- Oversaw facility maintenance activities to ensure optimal performance of equipment and infrastructure elements.
Senior Associate of Finance
Relay Graduate School of Education
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Managed organizational financial systems, including payroll, bookkeeping, and accounting software, ensuring compliance and accuracy.
- Developed and implemented financial processes to transition to Unit4 Business World.
- Created billing workflows for third-party partnerships, streamlining collections.
- Streamlined operational efficiency by identifying areas for improvement.
- Effectively managed multiple team priorities while maintaining focus on delivering exceptional results for partners and the institution.
Education
M.S - Nonprofit Management
Columbia University
New York, New York05.2023
B.A, B.S - Economics, Marketing
St. Joseph's University
Brooklyn, New York05.2016
Skills
- Strategic planning expertise
- CRM & client portal expertise
- ERP implementation
- MAP implementation
- CMS implementation
- Process automation
- Data analysis and reporting
- Financial management
- Risk evaluation and management
- Sales team leadership
- Analytical decision making
- Client interaction
Timeline
Director of Partnership & Sales Operations
Relay Graduate School of Education
08.2022 - Current
Senior Manager of Strategy & Operations
Relay Graduate School of Education
11.2019 - 08.2022
Manager of Operations
Relay Graduate School of Education
01.2019 - 11.2021
Senior Associate of Finance
Relay Graduate School of Education
01.2016 - 01.2019
M.S - Nonprofit Management
Columbia University
B.A, B.S - Economics, Marketing
St. Joseph's University
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