WHITNEY AUSTIN
Norfolk,VA
Summary
Results-driven Director with over 10 years of experience in executive operations and project management within dynamic creative and tech start-ups. Proven expertise in problem-solving, effective communication, and multitasking. Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing environments while leading teams to achieve operational excellence.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
People Operations Director
Grow
07.2023 - Current
- Promoted to oversee People Operations for 31-person digital agency.
- Executed culture initiatives, events, programs, and benefits with administrative team support.
- Managed quarterly employee sentiment surveys and presented analytics to leadership.
- Led DEI strategy, developed annual plan with actionable KPIs, and directed DEI committee.
- Oversaw full-cycle recruiting, from needs assessment to onboarding new employees.
- Authored and maintained all company policies and procedures.
- Directed professional development systems, including annual 360 process and coaching programs.
- Developed impactful internship programs focused on nurturing diverse young talent.
Special Projects Lead
Assembly
01.2021 - 07.2023
- Assembly is owned by Grow's CEO.
- Led operational setup of 50,000 square foot commercial office and coworking campus for top creative and tech firms.
- Established core operational systems, including community management platform and access control system.
- Oversaw marketing initiatives across social media, newsletters, websites, and printed materials.
- Contributed to strategic planning for events, membership growth, and future business development.
- Managed hiring efforts for all open positions, including C-suite roles.
Senior Executive Assistant & Special Projects Lead
Grow
01.2020 - 07.2023
- Served as business partner to CEO and leadership team, providing strategic insights.
- Facilitated leadership team meetings, capturing action items and tracking KPIs effectively.
- Crafted all company-wide communications and presentations to convey key messages.
- Collaborated with Operations Director on initiatives related to culture, development, and recruitment.
- Managed complex $1 million office build-out project, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
- Developed comprehensive schedules, budgets, and resource plans to drive projects forward.
- Oversaw vendor management, including general contractor and design teams, for optimal project execution.
- Led DEI strategy as Co-Chair of DEI Committee, fostering inclusive cultural initiatives.
Assistant to the CEO
Grow
04.2014 - 01.2020
Assistant to the Operations Director
The William George Agency
12.2010 - 04.2014
Education
Master of Arts - Scriptwriting
University of East Anglia
10-2010
Bachelor of Arts - English
Hobart And William Smith Colleges
05-2009
Skills
- Project management
- Effective communication
- Strategic planning
- Organizational culture
- Data analysis
- Problem-solving
- Employee relations
- Time management
Timeline
People Operations Director
Grow
07.2023 - Current
Special Projects Lead
Assembly
01.2021 - 07.2023
Senior Executive Assistant & Special Projects Lead
Grow
01.2020 - 07.2023
Assistant to the CEO
Grow
04.2014 - 01.2020
Assistant to the Operations Director
The William George Agency
12.2010 - 04.2014
Master of Arts - Scriptwriting
University of East Anglia
Bachelor of Arts - English
Hobart And William Smith Colleges
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